§ 63-1-722. Electronic- or computer-generated signatures of physician.

Electronic- or computer-generated signatures of a physician are acceptable as authentication and may be used in any place in the medical record where a physician's signature is required, including, but not limited to, all medical orders, if the signature is generated by a confidential code which only the user possesses and the following safeguards are adhered to:

1.  The physician signs and then files a statement in the hospital administrator's office which states that:

a.the physician will use an electronic- or computer-generated signature to authenticate his entries in the medical record,

b.the signature will be generated by a confidential code which only the physician possesses, and

c.no person other than the physician will be permitted to use the signature;

2.  The physician's use of an electronic- or computer-generated signature is approved in writing by the hospital's administrator and medical record committee;

3.  The electronic- or computer-generated signature is the full, legal name of the physician and includes the physician's professional title; and

4.  Rules and regulations pertaining to electronic-generated signatures as provided in this act shall be promulgated by the State Board of Health.

Added by Laws 1993, c. 124, § 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.