Final answer:
Yes, electronically transmitted prescriptions for controlled substances from Schedule II through Schedule V are permitted under DEA regulations, using EPCS-certified software. Electronic prescriptions for opioids, classified as CII drugs, are supported to improve tracking and prevent abuse.
Step-by-step explanation:
Electronic transmission of Controlled Substance prescriptions, including those for Schedule II (CII) through Schedule V (CV), is federally permitted in the United States under specific regulatory requirements to ensure proper verification and security. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) allows for this under the conditions outlined in the Electronic Prescriptions for Controlled Substances (EPCS) regulations.
Healthcare providers must use EPCS-certified software that meets DEA requirements, ensuring that prescriptions are transmitted securely and with proper authentication measures in place. In the context of opioids, which are often classified as CII drugs, electronic prescriptions are encouraged to improve tracking and prevent prescription fraud or abuse. The adoption of electronic prescriptions is supported by medical professionals, including Dr. Atul Gawande, who highlights their importance in controlling opioid prescriptions in his 2017 article, emphasizing the benefits of transitioning from paper to electronic systems.