Overview
When a prescription is for a controlled substance, you'll need to complete an electronic signature before the order can move forward. Your identity is verified in real time through ID.me, which confirms your provider number (NPI) and DEA number during the process.
When to use this feature
This step happens automatically whenever a prescription is a controlled substance, including:
Standard controlled medications that are set up as such.
Custom compounded medications where a controlled ingredient (like Testosterone) is included in the formula — the order is flagged this way regardless of how the base product is normally classified.
Before you begin
Your provider number (NPI) must be on file.
Your DEA number must be on file.
Your ID.ME account must be linked to your platform login to facilitate Two-factor authentication (2FA).
You must be the provider who requested the prescription — only that person can sign it.
If any of these are missing, the Sign button will show a message explaining what's needed instead of letting you continue.
Field reference
Field | Required | Notes |
Signature capture (draw/type) | Yes | Captured before the identity verification step begins |
Identity verification window | Yes | Opens automatically after the signature is captured; don't close it manually |
Two-factor challenge (text message or authenticator app) | Yes | Completed inside the verification window, not in ChartedHealth directly |
How to sign a controlled substance prescription
Open the prescription that needs a signature and click Sign. If the button doesn't work, check the message shown above it — it will tell you what's missing.
Draw or provide your signature and confirm.
A new window opens automatically to verify your identity.
Complete the verification step inside that window (text message code or authenticator app), as prompted.
Once verification is done, the window closes on its own and you're brought back to the prescription — you don't need to do anything else.
Result: The prescription is signed and verified, and the order can move forward to the pharmacy.
Common messages and what they mean
Message | What it means | What to do |
Only the prescribing practitioner can electronically sign this controlled prescription. | You're logged in as someone other than the provider who requested the order | Ask the provider to complete the signing task that they've been assigned. |
EPCS must be enabled for your practitioner before you can sign controlled prescriptions. | Electronic signing isn't turned on for your account yet | Ask your organization administrator to enable it for you |
This prescription has already been electronically signed. | The order already has a signature | No action needed |
Sign button doesn't work, no message shown | Two-factor authentication isn't turned on for your account | You need to link your ID.ME account to your portal account. |
Verification window closes without finishing | Your provider number or DEA number don't match what's on file, or your DEA has expired | Confirm your NPI and DEA are correct and current; contact support if you've recently renewed your DEA |
Verification window doesn't open | Your browser is blocking pop-ups | Allow pop-ups and try signing again |
Troubleshooting
The verification window doesn't appear: check your browser's pop-up blocker settings.
Verification keeps failing: double-check your provider number and DEA number are correct and current.
FAQ
Q: Can someone else sign the prescription for me?
A: No — only the provider who requested the prescription can sign it.
Q: Does this apply to custom compounded medications?
A: Yes — if a compounded formula includes a controlled ingredient like Testosterone, it follows this same signing process automatically.