Whilst many of us fondly remember the white coat, mortar and pestle days of pharmacy gone by, these memories are quite distant from the reality of today’s Community Pharmacy. We all know, or at least should know, that pharmacy profitability is not what it once was; competition is everywhere and margins are in decline. Whilst many preach the ‘doom & gloom’ I prefer to be the optimist; there still remains opportunities for success!
Introducing automated dispensing – a developed technology that whilst seemingly expensive can assist in improving overall business performance. Whilst there are obviously many qualifying factors and I’m positive that readers have numerous questions, my recent research across a number of case studies have shown that automated dispensing, if used correctly, is most likely to have a positive impact on a pharmacy. Most common benefits include reduced error rates, reduced stocking time, improved stock management and a more relaxed dispensing environment. These all have the potential to contribute to better patient outcomes, more selling time for staff members and greater opportunities to develop your business.
Is automated dispensing for everyone though? Whilst there are pharmacies that inevitably will be too small in terms of physical size and prescription volume, the robotics manufacturers have a number of solutions to suit a number of pharmacy sizes and business models. I have seen successful examples at the community level, in medical centres and in hospital pharmacies.
After communicating the broad positive aspects to have come from my research, I can’t hide the pitfalls. They are expensive and they will require a settling in period for all staff. I would recommend conducting internal training using a consultant like myself and making sure a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) are in place. An open attitude to change and a willingness to embrace the technology will also assist in the transition. More importantly, work constructively with the manufacturer to learn about the machine. After all, the machine has the same aim you do!
Today’s key message – there are benefits to moving to an automated dispensing system across all levels of community pharmacy. The time is now! Improve the quality of your customer service the safe storage of your medicines, accuracy and efficiency of the pick watch your prescription numbers climb.
For your next leap forward, contact Jackie Peck at [email protected] or on insert call Antony in our new office +44(0)1252 302342