Exploring prescriber, dispenser and consumer use of electronic prescriptions: an Australian snapshot – Research report
Since the nationwide rollout of electronic prescribing in 2021, Australians have embraced digital prescriptions at scale with over 370 million electronic prescriptions generated as of July 2025. As the healthcare system continues to evolve, understanding how consumers and healthcare professionals interact with these technologies remains critical.
In 2023, the Australian Digital Health Agency undertook a comprehensive research initiative to explore perceptions, behaviours and outcomes related to electronic prescriptions and Active Script Lists (ASLs). Two years on, the findings remain highly relevant as we refine digital health strategies and expand equitable access to digital medicines.
Between March and June 2023, the Agency working in consultation with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing undertook research to better understand how electronic prescriptions and ASLs were being used, perceived and integrated into everyday healthcare delivery.
This research included:
- A national survey of more than 1,100 consumers, 369 prescribers, and 429 dispensers, exploring attitudes, benefits, barriers, and impacts of electronic prescribing and ASLs
- Time-and-motion studies in community pharmacies to assess the effect of electronic prescriptions on workflow efficiency and staff operations
Whilst the research report showed that electronic prescriptions offer clear safety benefits, it also identified key areas for improvement, which the Agency has been actively exploring in consultation with users since the research was completed. These focus areas include:
- Enhancing ASL functionality.
- Improving education and support.
- Addressing token management challenges.
- Supporting non-English speakers and digitally excluded groups.
This work continues to align with broader national efforts under the Quality Use of Medicines initiatives and the National Digital Health Strategy 2023–2028, which aim to deliver a person-centred, inclusive and future-ready digital health system.
Download the report here
