From March 1, Antibiotic Prescriptions Will Be Issued Electronically

A series of changes are expected in the healthcare electronic system soon, particularly from March 1, when antibiotic prescriptions will be issued electronically.

In an interview with Armenpress, Deputy Minister of Health Artak Jumayan emphasized that through the new initiative launched by the ministry, several reforms will be implemented in the primary healthcare sector, with a special focus on the development of electronic health services.

“In 2024, as a first step, we will completely switch to electronic prescriptions, which have been gradually implemented throughout the system. Medications prescribed for patients with disabilities or other social statuses have already transitioned entirely to electronic prescriptions. This step eliminates the need for patients to visit multiple offices for signatures or stamps. With this system, patients only need to present an identity document. The implementation of this system also serves to avoid queues and unnecessary time loss,” said the deputy minister.

Jumayan noted that from March 1, the prescription of antibiotics will also be conducted through electronic prescriptions. Pharmacies will be required to provide medication only in the presence of an electronic prescription. This change will apply to all patients.

According to Jumayan, the second largest change in this block is the transition to electronic immunization. The entire vaccination process for individuals aged 0 to 18, as well as for adults, will also become electronic, starting from birth. He stated that the minister’s order is currently in circulation, and after its approval, the entire system will switch to the electronic version. “A pilot program has already been launched, and we have also conducted training for doctors and nurses. This is also beneficial as all vaccinations will be available in the citizens' application,” highlighted Artak Jumayan.

The deputy minister emphasized that these two important initiatives will be implemented in the coming weeks.

Jumayan also referred to the next significant step in primary healthcare—the implementation of an outpatient card that relates to the services received there, and its electronic version is already prepared. The card or history related to inpatient visits includes the treatment course in the hospital and the actions taken with the patient. According to him, substantial work has been done in this area and continues to take place. Information that is currently filled out on paper must be entered into the system in approved formats.