EPCS
Medical abbreviation · Prescription
| Stands for | Electronic prescribing of controlled substances |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
EPCS stands for Electronic prescribing of controlled substances, a prescription abbreviation.
E-prescribing of Schedule II to V drugs, which requires DEA-compliant software, identity proofing and two-factor authentication each time the prescriber signs. It became mandatory for controlled drugs under Medicare Part D, with CMS enforcing compliance from 2023.
Example: EPCS token expired, so the clinic had to re-verify Dr. Lee's identity before sending the oxycodone script.
Usage notes
The DEA first allowed EPCS through an interim final rule in 2010. The federal requirement for Part D came from the 2018 SUPPORT Act, and many states mandate EPCS for all payers. EPCS improves security against forged and altered opioid prescriptions.
Related abbreviations
More prescription abbreviations
- cc – Cubic centimeter
- c̄ – Cum (with)
- D/C – Discontinue
- DAW – Dispense as written
- Disp – Dispense
- dtd – Dentur tales doses (give such doses)
- eRx – Electronic prescription
- gr – Grain
- gtt/min – Drops per minute
- HS – Hora somni (at bedtime)
- IU – International unit
- LD – Loading dose
See all 77 prescription abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.