Frequently Asked Questions about Access in Hospital and in the Community

e-Health

Drug Information System - FAQ about Access in Hospital and in the Community

What is the difference between the Drug Information System Portal and the SHARE Clinical Portal?

The Drug Information System Portal will allow prescribers to see medication profiles in the system, to add information to or update existing information in patient profiles, and to create prescriptions electronically, or e-prescribe. Prescribers include physicians, nurse practitioners, RN prescribers, midwives, dentists, dental hygienists, optometrists, and hospital pharmacists.

The SHARE Clinical Portal is a view-only portal that will allow clinicians to see their patients' medication profiles - this portal cannot be used to add or update information and e-prescribe. Patient medication profiles will be viewed through the “Community Med Profile” tab.

Who has access to the Drug Information System in hospital and in the community?

Prescribers and other authorized healthcare providers in hospital are eligible for access. User access requests are supported by Management of the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK Health Centre.

Prescribers and clinicians working in private healthcare organizations such as physician, dentist and optometrist clinics are eligible for access.

What is a private healthcare organization?

A private healthcare organization is a private sector corporation, association, partnership or person that provides healthcare services in the Province of Nova Scotia. It does not include public sector healthcare organizations (like the Department of Health and Wellness, the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK Health Centre).

Will private healthcare organizations in the community be required to sign an agreement with the Department of Health and Wellness for this access?

Yes, private healthcare organizations will be required to sign the SHARE Access Agreement for Private Healthcare Organizations which outlines the responsibilities of both parties. This agreement will be provided to private healthcare organizations.

Is there a cost for getting access to the Drug Information System through either the Drug Information System Portal or the SHARE Clinical Portal?

No, there is no cost.

How will users get access to the Drug Information System?

Users in hospital can get access through existing user access.

Access for users in private healthcare organizations will be coordinated by the Department of Health and Wellness upon request.

If your private healthcare organization is interested in access, contact share@novascotia.ca

Is there training required for users?

Yes, users of both the Drug Information System Portal and the SHARE Clinical Portal are required to complete a self-serve computer-based training. For more information see the Education & Training Materials section.

Is there someone I can contact with questions?

Yes, for questions about the Drug Information System, contact dis@novascotia.ca.

For questions about SHARE, contact share@novascotia.ca.