The Federal Government’s electronic prescribing system being launched this month will lead to a surge in medication errors because it is confusing and will leave patients bewildered, say pharmacists.

Under the system GPs will be able use their practice software to write electronic scripts which are then automatically uploaded to a government portal to be accessed by any pharmacy in Australia.

The system, introduced as part of the COVID-19 response, will also send patients a web link, known as a ‘token’, via email or SMS, which they can forward to a pharmacy for dispensing and delivery.

It’s been backed by the AMA, which has said it’s necessary to ensure patients access prescribed medications after telehealth consults.