Eight out of ten eNRMC software vendors have successfully achieved electronic prescribing conformance, marking a significant milestone in modernising medication management in residential aged care.
The remaining non-conformant eNRMC software vendors have been granted an extension until 1 April 2026 to achieve technical and legal conformance.
Residential Aged Care Homes (RACHs) using non-conformant eNRMC systems may continue to operate under the Transitional Arrangement. However, from 1 April 2026, orders created using non-conformant systems will require duplicate PBS prescriptions.
Further advice regarding any changes or impacts will be provided to the sector prior to April 2026. Clinicians and pharmacists continuing to use non-conformant products will need to consider and manage any potential clinical risks associated with them.
Implementation Phase Timeframes for RACHs remains the same
To ensure a safe and effective transition, the implementation deadline for RACHs to adopt electronic prescribing conformant eNRMC systems remains 31 December 2026, consistent with the previous announcement. This timeframe reflects the significant complexity involved in migrating all residents’ medication charts and is intended to mitigate operational risks while supporting continuity of care and compliance with legislative requirements.
Next Steps
The Department and the Australian Digital Health Agency will continue to work closely with the affected vendors to ensure progression of conformance and aged care peak bodies to monitor impacts on the aged care sector and address any issues.
We are currently updating our full suite of resources and information with this revised deadline. These resources will become available on our website in the coming days: Electronic National Residential Medication Chart (eNRMC) collection.