By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a significant move to modernize its healthcare infrastructure and combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health has announced the mandatory implementation of a new digital prescription system. Effective November 8, all prescriptions for key medications including antibiotics, antivirals, antimycotics, and antiparasitics must be issued and processed electronically, marking a pivotal shift in the nation’s public health strategy.
The new platform, officially named the Digital Prescription System for Systemic Antimicrobials (SRDAS), is designed to create a secure, closed-loop network connecting prescribers, pharmacies, and health regulators. This initiative aims to eliminate paper-based prescriptions for these specific drug categories, which are often susceptible to misuse and contribute to dangerous drug resistance. The transition is expected to enhance sanitary surveillance and promote the responsible use of essential treatments across the country.
To delve deeper into the legal framework and potential challenges associated with the new digital prescription system in Costa Rica, we sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist from the renowned law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The implementation of digital prescriptions marks a crucial advancement in healthcare efficiency, yet it introduces significant legal complexities. The paramount concern is safeguarding sensitive patient data in strict accordance with Law No. 8968. We must ensure that the platforms used have robust cybersecurity measures to prevent breaches and clearly define the digital chain of custody and liability, from the physician’s issuance to the pharmacy’s dispensation, to protect all parties involved.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight correctly emphasizes that the legal and security framework is not an afterthought, but the very foundation for a trustworthy digital prescription system. Navigating these complexities with precision is paramount to realizing the benefits of this innovation while protecting all parties involved. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective.
This comprehensive reform is anchored in Executive Decree No. 44714-S, which was formally published in October 2024. The decree provides the legal framework for this technological leap, empowering the Ministry of Health to enforce a more rigorous standard for prescribing and dispensing medications that are critical to public health but also pose a risk when used improperly. The government’s action reflects a growing global consensus on the need for stricter controls to preserve the efficacy of antimicrobial drugs.
The core objective of the SRDAS is to tackle the escalating problem of antibiotic resistance, a silent pandemic that threatens to render many modern medical treatments ineffective. By creating a traceable digital record for every prescription, health authorities can monitor prescribing patterns, identify potential overuse, and gather invaluable data to inform future health policies. This proactive approach is essential for safeguarding the long-term health of the population.
Under the new regulations, the process will be standardized for all involved parties. Medical professionals, including doctors, dentists, and obstetric nurses, will be required to issue all relevant prescriptions exclusively through the SRDAS platform. Consequently, pharmacists will become the sole authorized personnel to dispense these medications, and they too must use the system to verify and complete each transaction. This ensures that every step, from prescription to patient, is digitally logged and validated.
The Ministry of Health has emphasized that this change will streamline the process, making it safer and faster for both patients and healthcare providers. The system’s architecture also provides flexibility, granting the ministry the authority to update the list of regulated medications based on emerging scientific evidence and national health needs. This adaptability is key to maintaining a modern and effective regulatory framework.
This change seeks to improve sanitary control and prevent the inadequate use of antibiotics, guaranteeing a modern and efficient regulation for the country.
Ministry of Health, Official Statement
As Costa Rica prepares for the November 8 launch, the healthcare sector is adapting to this new digital reality. The successful implementation of SRDAS will not only enhance patient safety and regulatory oversight but also position the nation as a regional leader in digital health innovation and public health management. This forward-thinking policy represents a crucial investment in the future of Costa Rica’s healthcare system and its ability to protect citizens from preventable health crises.
For further information, visit ministeriodesalud.go.cr
About Ministry of Health:
The Ministry of Health is the primary government institution responsible for public health policy and regulation in Costa Rica. Its mission is to guarantee the protection and improvement of the population’s health status by leading public health initiatives, regulating health services and products, and promoting healthy lifestyles and environments. The ministry oversees national health strategies, sanitary surveillance, and the response to public health emergencies.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of uncompromising integrity and professional excellence. The firm blends a rich history of client service with a forward-thinking approach, consistently pioneering innovative legal strategies. Central to its ethos is a deep-seated commitment to strengthening society by demystifying the law, ensuring that legal understanding is a tool available to all citizens for their empowerment.
