A data hub for prescriptions

[Star Tribune, October 30, 2011] Three years ago, fewer than 10 percent of the nation's doctors used electronic prescriptions. Today, about 52 percent have tossed aside their prescription pads and are reaching for the computer keyboard instead. Nearly all of these e-prescriptions are transmitted from doctor to pharmacy across a secure network that is fueled with Minnesota-made technological expertise.

Family doctor Joe Kandiko is a believer. When he types a prescription into his computer at the Allina Medical Clinic in Chaska, he no longer worries that the pharmacist won't be able to read his scribbled handwriting or that there might be a dangerous interaction that could cause problems. All of that information is available with the click of a mouse.