Understanding the exploration of electronic prescriptions in Australia
Exploring prescriber, dispenser and consumer use of electronic prescriptions: an Australian snapshot – Research report
Since the nationwide rollout of electronic prescribing in 2021, Australians have embraced digital prescriptions at scale with over 370 million electronic prescriptions generated as of July 2025. As the healthcare system continues to evolve, understanding how consumers and healthcare professionals interact with these technologies remains critical.
In 2023, the Australian Digital Health Agency undertook a comprehensive research initiative to explore perceptions, behaviours and outcomes related to electronic prescriptions and Active Script Lists (ASLs). Two years on, the findings remain highly relevant as we refine digital health strategies and expand equitable access to digital medicines.
The sanctuary of the clinical environment must extend into the digital realm. Privacy isn't just a compliance requirement; it's the foundation of patient trust.— Dr. Amanda Sterling, Chief Digital Health Officer
Furthermore, patients will gain granular control over who can access specific parts of their record. New "Digital Consent" tools will allow individuals to authorize access for specific time periods or particular clinical episodes, moving away from the traditional 'all-or-nothing' approach to health data.
Transition Period and Support
Recognizing the technical burden on smaller practices, the Agency is launching a national support initiative. This includes specialized training modules, technical grants for software upgrades, and a dedicated 24/7 help desk for clinical administrators transitioning to the new standards.