How EHR-Integrated PDMPs Increase Interoperability, Decrease Burden

A prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) that is implemented into the EHR can decrease the strenuous process of checking the PDMP, thus reducing the cognitive workload and burden for the clinician. However, only one-in-three hospitals can access PDMP data within its EHR system. PDMPs are state-run electronic databases that have been deployed in 49 states, excluding Missouri. The program collects data from pharmacies on Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) controlled substances and prescription drugs that are dispensed to patients. Prescribers use PDMPs each time they write prescription. It creates a record for the patient so that healthcare providers can understand a patient’s full prescription drug history.