Pharmacy automation refers to the use of technology and automated systems to streamline medication dispensing and management processes in pharmacies. It offers several benefits, including enhanced patient safety, improved medication management, increased efficiency, and cost savings .
1. Enhanced Patient Safety:
Pharmacy automation reduces the likelihood of medication errors, leading to enhanced patient safety. Automated systems can accurately dispense medications, reducing the risk of human error.
2. Improved Medication Management:
Automation simplifies medication management, making it easier for patients to take their medications as prescribed. Automated dispensing cabinets and robotic systems enable pharmacists to efficiently manage and distribute a wide array of drugs accurately and quickly .
3. Increased Efficiency:
Pharmacy automation streamlines processes, leading to improved efficiency in medication dispensing and management. Automated systems can expedite the medication dispensing process, making it faster and more accurate. Barcode scanning technology ensures that the correct medication is dispensed every time, reducing the likelihood of medication errors due to human error or miscommunication .
4. Cost Savings:
Pharmacy automation can help lower labor costs and improve overall efficiency, resulting in cost savings for both pharmacies and healthcare facilities. By reducing the need for manual processes and streamlining operations, pharmacies can save on labor expenses .