SafeScript NSW streamlines the approval application process

It has been 2 years since the rollout of SafeScript NSW and more than 29,000 health practitioners now use the system to gain real-time information about a patient’s prescription and dispensing history for monitored medicines.

In November 2023, new functionality was introduced, simplifying the way prescribers apply for approval to prescribe and supply certain Schedule 8 medicines.

Simplifying the approval application process

Since that time, clinicians such as Dr Chris Tremonti, Addiction Specialist and Clinical Pharmacologist, are spending less time doing paperwork and are able to apply, manage and track their approvals in real-time. This has great benefits for both him and his patients.

“SafeScript NSW and its approval management functionality saves me administration time. Approvals to prescribe are turned around quicker through the online portal, giving me more time to focus on patient care.”

“People often come in feeling anxious or in a crisis so being able to get the approval quickly, sometimes in real-time, can reduce their feelings of anxiety as we can initiate treatment straight away, which is a better outcome for the patient,” he said.

Supporting patient safety and prescriber compliance

Bruce Battye, Director, Pharmaceutical Operations at the NSW Ministry of Health encourages all eligible health practitioners register and use SafeScript NSW.

“The system is much more efficient, and prescribers will be able to easily see the benefits for themselves and their patients when they use the new approval management system. It helps with patient safety and outcomes, but also supports the prescriber’s regulatory compliance obligations too,” he said.

eHealth NSW is proud to continue its partnership with the Ministry of Health in the delivery of SafeScript NSW, contributing to the commitment of NSW Health to improving patient safety and the approval management process.