Section 246-870-020. What definitions do I need to know to understand these rules?

(1) "Electronic transmission of prescription information" means the communication from an authorized prescriber to a pharmacy or from one pharmacy to another pharmacy, by computer, by the transmission of an exact visual image of a prescription by facsimile, or by other electronic means other than electronic voice communication, of original prescription information or prescription refill information for a legend drug or controlled substance consistent with state and federal law.

(2) "Confidential patient information" means information maintained in the patient's health care records or individually identifiable health care records. Confidential information must be maintained and protected from release in accordance with chapter 70.02 RCW and applicable federal law.

(3) "Digital signature" means an electronic identifier that provides for message integrity, nonrepudiation, user authentication, and encryption and is intended to have the force and effect of a manual signature.

(4) "Electronic signature" means an electronic sound, symbol, or process attached to or logically associated with a prescription and executed or adopted by an authorized person with the intent to sign the prescription.

(5) "Security" means a system to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of patient records including:

(a) Documented formal procedures for selecting and executing security measures;

(b) Physical safeguards to protect computer systems and other pertinent equipment from intrusion;

(c) Processes to protect, control and audit access to confidential patient information; and

(d) Processes to prevent unauthorized access to the data when transmitted over communication networks or when data physically moves from one location to another using media such as magnetic tape, removable drives or CD media.

[Statutory Authority: Chapters 69.41, 69.50 RCW, RCW 18.64.005. WSR 03-24-070, § 246-870-020, filed 12/1/03, effective 1/1/04.]

Chapters 69.41, 69.50 RCW, RCW 18.64.005. WSR 03-24-070, § 246-870-020, filed 12/1/03, effective 1/1/04.