EPCS FAQs
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Answers to the most common electronic prescribing for controlled substances (EPCS) questions.
| Question | Answer |
| What is the difference between ePrescribing and EPCS? | ePrescribing (or eRx) enables providers to prescribe nonscheduled medications. EPCS enrollment is required to prescribe controlled substances. |
| How does a provider enroll for EPCS? | Review Enroll for EPCS to learn more. Note: Providers must be enrolled for eRx prior to requesting enrollment for EPCS. |
| What is the cost to enroll for EPCS? | The cost to enroll for EPCS is a one-time $75.00 setup fee per provider. |
| How is the setup fee billed? | The setup fee is billed to the account's next monthly invoice. |
| Once the EPCS enrollment request is submitted, how long does it take to process? | Successful enrollment typically takes 5 - 7 business days after the order form is submitted to Kareo. |
| What vendor does Kareo use for EPCS? | Kareo uses SureScripts to prescribe controlled substances and DrFirst to complete the identity proofing process. |
| Can a provider prescribe EPCS from multiple EHR systems? | Yes. |
| What is a token? What is the difference between a hard and soft token? | A token, or sometimes referred to as a fob, is a small handheld device that emits a different 6-digit code every 30 seconds. It is used for enrollment purposes and must be used each time the provider prescribes a controlled substance.
A hard token is a small keychain that is mailed to the provider during enrollments. A soft token is an application that can be downloaded on a phone or tablet. Either can be used for enrollments or prescribing as long as it is linked to the provider's DrFirst account. |
| How does a provider order a hard token and when will the provider receive the hard token? | During enrollments, the provider can request a hard token. The request is sent to DrFirst and they will send the hard token to the provider. |
| Can a provider use more than one token? | Yes. |
| How many tokens can a provider link to their DrFirst account? | Any combination of hard and soft tokens up to 5 can be added. |
| What is identity proofing? | Identity proofing is a step administered by DrFirst to verify the provider's identity using their personal financial information. |
| What happens if the provider fails identity proofing? | After three unsuccessful attempts at identity proofing, the provider will be locked out for 24 hours. It recommended the provider contact Experian at (877) 284-7942 to pull their credit report to help complete identity proofing. |
| What is a transaction ID and when will the provider receive it? | Once the IDP process has been completed and the token(s) activated, the provider will receive a letter with an IDP Confirmation Code, also known as the transaction ID, from Experian via USPS within a couple days. If a mobile phone number provided in the User Registration and is validated by Experian, the provider will receive a text message with the IDP Confirmation Code instead of receiving a letter. |
| What if the provider never received their transaction ID? | The provider will need to complete the identify proofing again. Reach out the Enrollments Team for an invitation |
| Who can activate the Logical Access Control (LAC) for the provider? | This step must be completed by a user with a System Admin role who is not the provider. If necessary, add a new System Admin user who is an individual who knows the provider and not the provider themselves. |
| Who do I contact if I have questions about DrFirst's Identity Proofing or User Registration? | Review DrFirst's EPCSGold help center for assistance or contact their support team. |