CMS proposes update to e-prescribing standards: 6 things to know

Alia Paavola -

In an effort to reduce provider burden and improve patient access to medication, CMS has issued a proposed rule to update e-prescribing standards, the agency announced June 17.

Six things to know:

1. The proposed rule would update the prior authorization process and standards for Medicare Part D.

2. Under the proposed change, providers would be able to complete prior authorizations online.

3. According to the news release, clinicians who select the electronic option will likely be able to satisfy the terms of a prior authorization in real time, before a prescription is sent to a pharmacy.

4. "Improving patients' access to prescription drugs is a top priority for CMS," said CMS Administrator Seema Verma. "This proposed rule would reduce the time it takes for a patient to receive needed medications and ease the prescriber burden by giving clinicians the flexibility and choice to complete prior authorization transactions electronically."

5. Additionally, the rule proposes new transaction standards for the e-prescribing program, as required under the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act. If finalized, all Part D plans would need to support these standards that would ensure secure electronic prior authorization requests and responses.

6. CMS is accepting comments on the proposed rule until Aug. 16.

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