Methods and systems for rapidly and conveniently creating prescriptions through the use of portable digital assistants (PDAs) and bar code scanning technology are provided. Prescriptions are created using a form-based approach in which prescribing options are presented to the prescriber for selection. The system allows entry of medication and patient ID by scanning bar codes. A bar code is generated for each prescription and is used to access the prescription information in a database. The bar code and prescription information can be printed on a ticket, which can be presented at a pharmacy when the prescription is picked up. The use of bar codes allows several levels of checking to ensure that the correct medication is dispensed and that the prescription is valid. Prescription information is transmitted between prescribers and pharmacies via a central site at which prescription information is stored. In a preferred embodiment of the invention communication occurs over the Internet, and the creation and transmission of prescriptions are coordinated by a World Wide Web service which sends Web pages to PDAs to present and gather prescription information. The Web pages can provide links to patient and medication information, and the system can advise the prescriber if there is a contraindication to the medication about to be prescribed. The Web service transmits prescription information to pharmacies, receives notification when prescriptions are fulfilled, and can perform other functions such as notifying patients or physicians when prescriptions are close to running out. The Web service can further be used to keep track of medication sample package inventories at prescribing locations such as physician offices. Prescription data can be used to perform market research in a timely fashion.