Electronic Prescribing in Developing Countries: Achievements and Challenges

Electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) has emerged as a valuable tool for improving medication safety and healthcare efficiency in developing countries. This chapter explores the facilitators and barriers to e-prescribing implementation, highlights the benefits and achievements, discusses the challenges faced, and provides recommendations for successful adoption. Facilitators include government support, technological advancements, integration with electronic health records, and patient-centered care. Barriers include infrastructure limitations, financial constraints, and privacy concerns. The benefits of e-prescribing encompass improved medication accuracy, enhanced efficiency, and increased patient safety. Achievements include streamlined workflows, reduced medication errors, and enhanced medication adherence. Quality assurance, interoperability, and sustainability are crucial considerations. Challenges include system reliability, user training, and cultural adaptations. Recommendations include policy support, infrastructure development, capacity building, and public awareness campaigns.