Electronic National Residential Medication Charts (eNRMC)

An eNRMC system is a type of electronic medication management system used in residential aged care to prescribe, supply, and electronically monitor the administration of medicines.

This provides greater flexibility, coordination, and access to real-time medical information across different care settings, easing the workload on care teams and reducing patient safety risks.

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has been working on initial eNRMC trials and their implementation in aged care since 2018, with significant benefits observed. These systems are currently operating under a temporary Transitional Arrangement, which allows their use without full electronic prescribing capability and connection to the National Prescription Delivery Service (NPDS). Once electronic prescribing capability for eNRMC systems is available, the workflows of prescribers, residential aged care staff, and pharmacies will be considerably improved and streamlined.

Benefits of electronic prescribing enabled eNRMC systems

  • Streamlined dispensing workflows for pharmacists – chart-based electronic prescriptions will be available from the NPDS, eliminating the need for manual transcription.  

  • Reduced administrative burden for GPs – extended chart duration from four to six months (previously four months for paper and Transitional eNRMC).

  • Aligning chart review and renewal with bi-annual care planning sessions, funded by the General Practice Aged Care Incentive.  

  • Flexible chart management options – Prescribers and RACH staff can more effectively manage chart end dates, reviews, and renewals. Charts are no longer required to conclude at the end of a month (as was the case for paper and Transitional eNRMC).

  • Enhanced medication safety and functionality by updating clinical and system requirements.

For more information:

Electronic National Residential Medication Charts (eNRMC) by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing: https://www.health.gov.au/resources/collections/enrmc-transitional-arrangements-collection

Electronic National Residential Medication Charts (eNRMC) by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care: https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/our-work/medication-safety-and-quality/electronic-medication-charts/electronic-national-residential-medication-chart

Cristy Houghton