Handheld electronic prescribing can save time, reduce errors. (Questions to ask Before Buying).

ATLANTA -- Electronic prescribing at the point of care using a handheld computer has the potential to improve work flow, reduce prescription fraud, provide formulary and copay information, and reduce medication errors.

"We're not just taking what we put on paper and making it electronic. There is much more that electronic prescribing gets you," Dr. Leonard S. Fromer said at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Before choosing a system vendor, one should ask a few questions, Dr. Fromer emphasized:

* Will the product improve your bottom line? "If the answer is not yes, it's not going to be successful, " he warned.

* Will the new system make it easier for your staff to process prescription refills?

* Will the new system be compatible with your existing practice management software?

Other important issues, Dr. Fromer added, include hardware and software options that are appropriate for a practice setting, accessibility while on call, and the ability of pharmacies in the area to receive and process electronic prescriptions.