E-prescription networks to merge

Alexandria, VA-based SureScripts and St. Paul, MN-based RxHub, the nation's two electronic prescription networks, plan to announce that they are merging in an effort to encourage the adoption of their technology by doctors and patients. The companies say they hope the broader use of the technology will cut down on costs and medical mistakes. For about seven years, the firms have tried to persuade doctors to dump handwritten prescriptions in favor of sending prescriptions electronically, but doctors have been slow to adopt.