PRESCRIPTION exchange system, eRx Script Exchange, is seeking the revocation and replacement of its authorisation for a revenue sharing arrangement with IP MDS Pty Ltd.
eRx has requested that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) issue a new authorisation to facilitate the inclusion of pharmacy software provider, Minfos, to become a third provider of conformant prescription delivery services (PDS) in the exchange of electronic scripts.
The application has sought to ensure that the ongoing operational costs of the IT infrastructure necessary to facilitate the interoperability of the conformant PDS are shared equally between the providers.
The ACCC noted that the IT services will be provided by Medication Knowledge, an entity owned by eRx and IP MDS.
In a letter to the ACCC, independent competition counsel for eRx, Alexandra Merrett, said the request for interim authorisation was sought on the same basis as the previous authorisations, which have been in place since 2012.
"The proposed conduct has significant public benefits and the parties submit that there are no public detriments," Merrett said.
"Arguably the public benefits are greater for this application, as it will enable a third conformant PDS provider to enter the market.
"Minfos' entry to the market as a third conformant PDS provider will delay until authorisation is granted.
"While an interoperable system can be built without authorisation, Minfos is unable to act as a conformation PDS provider without authorisation.
"There is a significant public interest in Minfos being able to enter as a third conformant PDS provider sooner rather than later.
"Granting interim authorisation would allow Minfos to enter sooner."
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