Collecting data on safer supply prescribing starts with correctly completing the duplicate prescription form

Since January 2022, all prescribers have been asked to write “SA” (safer alternative) in the “Directions for Use” section when they are filling out the duplicate (Controlled Prescription Program) prescription form. However, many registrants are still neglecting this simple but critical step when providing safe supply for their patients. Writing this code enables the pharmacist to enter this information into the PharmaNet database. This is the only way the MoH, MMHA, and partners such as the BC Centre on Substance Use and the BC Centre for Disease Control can conduct research to gauge the effects of safer supply, modify treatment programs, assess resource allocation needs, and to construct sound clinical practice guidelines. Prescribed safer supply is an evolving practice, and registrants are encouraged to do all they can to ensure that it is better understood. Completing the form correctly by writing “SA” is the first step in that endeavour.