January 1 Controlled Substance Prescribing Mandate Is Expected to Be Delayed

December 16, 2022

Earlier this month, due to ISMS advocacy, the General Assembly passed legislation that will delay the requirement that prescriptions for controlled substances be submitted electronically. Instead of taking effect Jan. 1, 2023, implementation will take effect on Jan. 1, 2024.

During this time, ISMS will be working with other stakeholders to draft appropriate waivers to ensure that patients do not go without care. ISMS encourages Illinois physicians to begin working toward becoming compliant with the new requirements for prescribing controlled substances.  

ISMS’ Issue Brief, Electronic Prescribing of Controlled Substances (EPCS) Implementation, has been developed to help answer questions members may have about the electronic prescribing tools they will need to implement EPCS and to help those who may be preparing to use this method for the first time. This brief will be updated throughout 2023 as the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) updates the rules and regulations for the new requirement. ISMS will actively work to make sure the regulations do not impose unnecessary burdens on medical practices.