On line prescribing by computer.

A computer is used to produce all prescriptions for patients seen in the consulting room in this practice. This method of prescribing improves safety, saves time, decreases prescribing costs, and provides an instant audit of all important prescribing parameters. In addition, treatment is rationalised and patients are given an improved service. An analysis of my own practice prescriptions showed that only 31% were repeat prescriptions, and this concurs with national figures. This means that the savings in costs are not likely to be substantial; however, when all prescribing is done by computer from a limited drug formulary then these savings may be appreciable.