4 Pros and Cons of Automated Prescription Dispensing Systems
Pharmacies may find great advantages in using automated dispensing systems to manage their prescriptions. The integrations may provide a more convenient opportunity to serve customers better. The systems use automation and robotics to dispense medication and get prescriptions ready for the customers. A review of the pros and cons of automated prescription systems shows pharmacies what they can expect with the new installations.
The Pros
1. Filling Prescriptions at a Faster Rate
The automated prescription dispensing systems fill prescriptions at a faster rate than a human staff can. This could mean that prescriptions are filled and ready to give to the patients faster, and they are ready when the patient comes to collect them. It is a more streamlined process. Pharmacies can learn more about automated prescription dispensing by contacting a vendor.
2. Improved Safety and Fewer Human Errors
The automated systems use robotics to complete the prescriptions, and they provide fewer human errors than a physical staff. This could increase safety for patients.
3. Increasing the Security of the Medication
Whether the pharmacy is located in a physical location or a part of a mobile medical unit, the automated systems increase the security of the medications. The automated system stores the medications, and workers or criminals won’t be able to steal narcotics from the pharmacy.
4. Decreasing the Wait Time for Patients
Many pharmacy patients complain about the waiting times for their prescriptions. Long waiting times are inconvenient, and patients may need their prescriptions quickly. With automated dispensing, the patients won’t experience long waiting times, and they can get their prescriptions in minutes.
The Cons
1. Data Entry Errors Could Be Dangerous
The staff must enter the details of the patient’s prescriptions. All it takes is one data entry error, and the patient could face dangerous circumstances. This is a major drawback for pharmacies and could leave them liable for any injuries the patient sustained. The patient could have a viable legal claim if the staff make any data entry mistakes that lead to an injury.
2. The Systems Perform the Tasks They Are Programmed to Do Only
Another drawback is that the systems only do what they are programmed to do. If the pharmacy makes changes, they will need to get a new system if it doesn’t complete tasks correctly. The changes could generate excessive costs for the pharmacy.
3. Potential Downtime Because of Mechanical Issues or Power Outages
If the automated system fails, the pharmacy cannot use the system. If it requires repairs or if the power is out, it is not accessible, and this leads to serious downtime for the pharmacy. If all medication is locked away in the system, the pharmacy must wait until the power is restored to fill prescriptions.
4. All Computers Have Glitches
The systems are based on computerized equipment and software. As everyone knows computers will glitch and require updates and changes to restore them. If the system glitches, this could lead to errors that cause problems for patients and the pharmacy. If it is connected to a company network, it also faces the same vulnerabilities as other equipment connected to the network.
Pharmacies could increase the number of prescriptions they fill in a day with an automated prescription installation. They could also increase the profitability of the company and maximize their earnings with robotics. By reviewing the automated systems, the pharmacy owners discover all the pros and cons of using these systems in their business.