ACT launches real-time prescription monitoring system

The Australian Capital Territory government has rolled out its new real-time prescription monitoring system that will assist doctors and pharmacists in prescribing or dispensing monitored medicines. In a media release in May last year, the ACT Health Directorate mentioned that Canberra Script will include real-time alerts and notifications that inform health professionals of signs their patients are exhibiting drug-seeking behaviour, such as doctor shopping. "It’s important for those prescribing and dispensing medications to know what other medications the patient is on or has recently taken, as some medicines can be harmful when taken in high doses or in combination with other medicines," ACT Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said in the latest media release.