Moldova goes digital: E-Prescriptions coming in April
Moldova's healthcare system is set for a digital makeover with the nationwide rollout of an electronic prescription system (e-prescription) starting April 1, 2024.
The initiative, hailed by National Health Insurance Company (CNAM) director Ion Dodon as a "major step towards modernising healthcare delivery," promises to streamline prescription processes for both doctors and patients.
"No more waiting in line at the doctor's office just to pick up a prescription," declared Dodon. "E-prescriptions will significantly reduce time wasted by both patients and physicians." The new system empowers a wider range of healthcare professionals to issue prescriptions, including specialists from outpatient clinics, home care teams, and even emergency room doctors. "This ensures patients receive prescriptions from specialists with deeper knowledge of their specific medication needs," Dodon explained.
Addressing concerns about medication availability, the system incorporates flexibility. "If a pharmacy doesn't have the full amount of medication in stock, patients can redeem their prescriptions in two or three instalments," Dodon clarified.
Currently, the e-prescription system is undergoing pilot testing, with doctors and pharmacists receiving comprehensive training on the digital platform. CNAM initiated the system's development in 2023, focusing initially on compensated medications and medical devices.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
