An electronic prescription is a digital version of a paper prescription. Electronic prescribing was initially introduced to provide consumers with greater choice in managing their medicines. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the implementation of electronic prescribing was accelerated to protect vulnerable people and to support telehealth consultations. Post COVID-19, electronic prescriptions continue to be an easy, convenient, and environmentally friendly way to manage prescriptions. 

Getting started 

The next time you visit your doctor, whether it’s in person or via telehealth, you can request an electronic prescription. During the consultation your doctor will send a link via email or SMS to your mobile phone. This notification will contain a link to a ‘token’ which contains your prescription information.  

How it works 

Your doctor will send a token for each medication prescribed. Present the evidence of prescription to your preferred pharmacy and they will scan the token a to dispense your medicine. If you accidently delete the message with your token, you can ask for it to be sent again. 

Some pharmacies have a system set up that allows you to send the token directly to them so they can have it ready for collection or organise delivery to your home. 

If you are unable to go to the pharmacy yourself, you can forward your token to a friend or family member to collect your medications on your behalf. 

The personal information contained in electronic prescriptions is managed safely in the same way it is for paper prescriptions, with additional security controls. 

Further information

The use of digital tools for managing your health is both convenient and empowering. If you are comfortable with using technology such as your mobile phone and the internet to search, store and access information you will likely find these tools easy and efficient to use. If you would like some help getting started, or just want to find out more, visit https://www.digitalhealth.gov.au.

Article updated 11 July 2025