Queens, NY – Today, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows) announced legislation she co-sponsors (S2486/A4274) to delay the requirement that all prescribers use electronic prescriptions until March 27, 2016 passed the Assembly. The bill is in response to concerns raised by health care professionals in need of more time to ensure they have the correct e-prescribing software in place.

“While I believe implementation of the e-prescription system is critical to improving efficiency and avoiding further abuses, the failure of the federal government to operationalize the new system must not prevent doctors from providing critically needed medications to their patients,” said Rozic. “If we are going to roll out a statewide program, we need to take the appropriate measures to ensure seamless implementation. Extending the deadline to next year benefits both prescribers and patients by allowing for preparedness and consumer awareness.”

Under a previously passed legislation effective March 27, all prescriptions in the state must be done electronically; however, many providers will be unable to meet that deadline due to factors beyond their control. Many doctors and prescribers are waiting for certification from the Federal Drug Enforcement Agency that would authorize them to transmit electronic prescriptions.

“Although the overwhelming majority of pharmacies in New York have met both federal and state requirements to receive electronic prescriptions for both controlled and non-controlled drugs, it has become clear that a majority of authorized prescribers will not have certified systems in place to transmit them. It is therefore entirely reasonable to delay the electronic prescription mandate that was due to become effective on March 27th for one year, going into effect in March of 2016,” said Charles Catalano, President of the Pharmacists Society of the State of New York, Inc. and Consulting Pharmacist at World’s Fair Pharmacy in Flushing. “The most important concern is for the patients, and the extra year will provide the time necessary for a smooth and gradual transition to the new prescribing technology and format.”

Rozic added, “The urgency of this issue would address concerns raised by many seniors regarding the elimination of their paper prescriptions. Seniors should be aware that their prescriptions will be sent directly to the pharmacy, and they will still be able to phone-in refill requests to their doctor as e-prescribing applies to medical providers.”

The bill passed both houses of the State Legislature and now awaits the Governor’s approval.