Medication errors are sadly more common than many people realize. In fact, they are now the most common source of patient injuries, and they are entirely avoidable. These errors may occur at any stage of medical treatment, from the prescribing of the drug to its administration. Why are these errors so common, and how can technology decrease them?
Almost half of all medication errors occur when they are prescribed, ordered, or administered. However, they may also occur at the dispensing stage. Pharmacists must comply with all rules regarding the dispensing of medications and follow protocol when doing so. Innovative solutions are also being implemented to increase the accuracy, safety, and efficiency of prescription medication dispensing. For example, a pharmacy may use an automated pill counter to ensure the patient gets the correct number of pills.
Medication Dispensing Automation
Countless pharmacies today benefit from automation when dispensing medications. These robotic systems reduce the risk of human error. They may be used to sort, package, and label drugs precisely to minimize the risk of a patient receiving an incorrect dosage or the wrong medication. The medications may have bar codes that these systems can scan to ensure the accuracy of the medication during the dispensing process and let the system know if the medication has expired or is deteriorating.
Smart dispensing cabinets are also being used to reduce the risk of medication errors. When a medical professional provides a patient with their medication, the cabinet ensures the proper medication is dispensed only when authorized. Hospitals, pharmacies, and long-term care facilities benefit significantly from these cabinets as they enhance the overall workflow.
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Digital Prescriptions
People have long made fun of doctors for their poor handwriting. Digital prescriptions are entered into a computer, laptop, tablet, or other device and transmitted directly to the pharmacy. Doing so eliminates the risk of a medication error due to a prescription being misread or the loss of a prescription. Medical providers can track medication use in real-time to ensure patients are adhering to their treatment plans, and automated alerts can be sent to the medical team if a dose is missed, so action can be taken to get the patient back on track and improve their health outcome.
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Artificial Intelligence
Many pharmacies are using artificial intelligence today to predict medication needs and optimize their inventory. Doing so ensures they have the proper medication to dispense when it is needed. Furthermore, this technology reduces the risk of possible drug interactions, and AI can provide personalized recommendations based on a patient’s medical history and the conditions they have.
Smart Packaging
Innovative packaging ensures patients take their medication as directed once it has been dispensed. QR codes may be used to provide them with detailed instructions on how to take the medication. They may also learn about potential side effects by scanning the QR code. Smart packaging can be used with digital tracking systems to confirm patients are adhering to their treatment plans, which lessens the risk of complications and the need for hospital admissions.
The pharmaceutical industry is transforming thanks to innovative technology. Medication dispensing companies are leading the way, as they want to increase patient safety while ensuring medications are available when needed. The technological innovations outlined above are only the starting point. Technology is being used in many other ways within the industry, and patients are the ones reaping the benefits.
