Tuesday, 14 April 2026: The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) has welcomed the signing by the Minister for Health of new legislation introducing electronic record keeping in community pharmacy.
The 2026 amendments to pharmacy legislation will allow prescriptions transmitted electronically to be retained in electronic form, removing the requirement to print them in defined circumstances.
The IPU has consistently called for administrative reform to support community pharmacy. Electronic record keeping was a key recommendation in the IPU White Paper, published in September 2024. It was subsequently reflected in the Programme for Government 2025 and included as a priority measure under the administrative reform pillar of the Community Pharmacy Agreement 2025.
The introduction of electronic record keeping represents a significant step forward in reducing administrative burden in pharmacies. It will streamline pharmacy operations by reducing reliance on paper-based processes and free up pharmacy teams’ time, allowing greater focus on patient care and the delivery of services.
This change also marks an important step towards wider digital developments in healthcare, including electronic prescription services and more connected systems. It reflects an ongoing shift in how pharmacy practice operates and supports the change management required as the sector prepares for further eHealth developments.
Improved access to accurate and up-to-date information will empower pharmacists to make more informed clinical decisions and contribute further to positive health outcomes in the community.
Commenting on the development, Áine Loughnan, Chair of the IPU IT Steering Group and member of the Electronic Record Keeping Implementation Group, said, “This is a really important and practical step for community pharmacy. It reduces unnecessary administrative work and supports pharmacists to spend more time on patient care. It also helps prepare pharmacy teams for the changes ahead as digital systems become more central to how we deliver services.”
Ms Loughnan added: “A collaborative effort between the Department of Health, PSI, HSE, IPU, and pharmacy representatives ensured the new system is practical and ready for everyday use in community pharmacies. By enabling pharmacies to maintain digital records, the legislation will enhance the quality and continuity of care for patients, and support better communication between healthcare professionals.”
Community pharmacies are already operating in largely digital environments through their Patient Medication Record (PMR) systems. This change builds on that existing foundation and supports a more consistent and efficient way of working.
“The IPU welcomes the introduction of this legislation and will continue to support members through this change. We will continue to engage with the Department of Health, the PSI and other stakeholders on further administrative reform and the ongoing development of eHealth and pharmacy services,” she concluded.
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