EPCS (Controlled Substances) Setup & Guide
If you would like to add EPCS (electronic prescribing for controlled substances) to your account, please reach out to support@akutehealth.com to get that setup. Keep in mind, it is an extra cost of $15/mo, however, our EPCS workflow is seamless, the same as your normal e-prescribe workflow so you don't need to use any separate app, and has PDMP optionally built-in! Once your account is enabled for EPCS, please follow the steps outlined below to enable controlled substances e-prescribing within Akute.
Step 1: Add Your DEA Number
- Go to Settings → Profile in Akute.
- Enter your DEA number.
Step 2: Start the Identity Proofing Process
- Open a patient chart.
- Go to the Medications tab → click Add Medication.
- In the eRx interface (Dosespot), look for a (!) icon near your name in the top left corner.
- Click the icon to begin.
Step 3: Complete the Information Form
You will be prompted to enter personal information for Experian to verify your identity.
- Phone Number:
- Select Mobile as the phone type.
- Enter your personal cell phone number (must be able to receive text messages).
- Do not use a business number. Experian uses this number to confirm your identity and you will receive one-time passcodes by text.
- If you choose “Home” and use a landline, you will have to wait several weeks for a mailed code.
- Credit Card:
- Enter a credit card in your name.
- This is used by Experian to verify identity.
- There will be no charges and no credit score impact.
Step 4: Answer Identity Questions
- You will be asked several personal questions generated by Experian.
- Neither Akute nor Dosespot sees your questions or answers.
Step 5: Enable Duo for Two-Factor Authentication
- E-mail us at support@akutehealth.com or text us at 855-755-8517 to enable the next steps for EPCS.
- You should now see another (!) near your name.
- If you do not see it, log out and back in.
- When prompted again for your phone number, enter your personal cell number.
- You will then receive two text messages from Duo Mobile:
- The first text provides a link to download the Duo Mobile app (if you haven’t already).
- The second text provides a link to activate Duo Mobile with Dosespot.
- After completing these steps, Dosespot will appear in your Duo app, which generates a rotating 6-digit TFA code.
Step 6: Set Up Your EPCS PIN
- As part of Duo token activation, you will be prompted to set up a PIN if you don’t already have one.
- This PIN is required when prescribing controlled substances.
- If you already use a PIN for prescribing, you can continue using it.
- Choose something secure but memorable.
- Once completed, your EPCS Identity Proofing is active and you can begin prescribing controlled substances securely.
Step 7: Prescribing Controlled Substances
- Each time you prescribe a controlled substance:
- Open the Duo Mobile app.
- Use the 6-digit code generated by Duo for two-factor authentication.
- Enter your PIN to complete the prescription.
PDMP (Prescription Drug Monitoring Program) Integration:
Akute has an optional PDMP integration through Bamboo Health. Cost of the integration will depend on the state (some states fund the integration for you, some do not). With this integration, you'll see the Narx score within the prescription page (see image here). Please reach out to support@akutehealth.com if you are interested in this integration.
