> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.phbhealth.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Prescribing

> Write a prescription from the encounter, with an allergy check, and send it to the patient and pharmacy.

## Before you start

You need a verified MDCN licence, an open encounter, and access to the patient.

## Steps

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open the Meds tab">
    In the encounter, open **Meds**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Find the drug">
    Search the drug list. Controlled drugs are marked **Controlled · Sch** with their schedule.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Check the allergy result">
    PHB checks the patient's recorded allergies. You see **No recorded allergy conflict for this drug.** or an **Allergy block:**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Fill in the details">
    Dose, route, frequency, quantity, refills, and whether substitution is allowed. If there is an allergy block and you still want to prescribe, type a clinical override reason.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add it">
    Click **Add prescription**. Until you sign, it is a **Draft — to be sent on Sign**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Sign">
    Sign the prescription. You see **Prescription signed** and a **Prescription code**. The patient is notified and the prescription appears in their app.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## What you can do here

* Prescribe from PHB's drug list, with an allergy check.
* Save drafts while you work.
* Allow or forbid substitution at the pharmacy.
* Set refills. Refill requests come back to your Inbox.

## Rules to know

* **You can't cancel or change a signed prescription.** Check it before you sign.
* **Controlled drugs** need an extra security check with your device's security key before you can sign.
* **Drug interaction checking is switched off.** It is waiting for clinical sign-off. Check interactions yourself.

## Common problems

| What you see | What to do |
| - | - |
| **An allergy block was not cleared — add a clinical override reason.** | Type why you are prescribing despite the allergy, or choose another drug. |
| A controlled medication needs a security re-check | Set up or use your device security key, then sign again. |
| **Could not sign the prescription. Try again.** | Try again. Your draft is kept. |

## Related

* [Dispense a prescription](/guides/pharmacist/dispense-a-prescription)
* [Inbox and refills](/guides/doctor/inbox-and-refills)


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