What is required of practitioners who prescribe controlled substances electronically?

Practitioners who prescribe controlled substances electronically must adhere to stringent security measures to ensure the integrity and authenticity of the prescriptions. Two-factor authentication credentialing is required, as it adds an extra layer of security by requiring two distinct forms of identification from the practitioner. This might typically involve something the practitioner knows (like a password) and something they possess (such as a secure token or a specific device).

The necessity for two-factor authentication helps mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and fraudulent prescriptions, which is particularly critical in light of the potential for abuse associated with controlled substances. By implementing this requirement, regulations aim to protect patients and the integrity of the prescribing process, ensuring that only qualified individuals are able to electronically prescribe medications in a secure manner.