The Transformation of Software in Pharmacy: From Old Systems to New Solutions
Introduction
Pharmacy technology has come a long way in the past three decades, from simple inventory management programs to complex programs that include everything from processing prescriptions to patient care, to regulatory requirements. While pharmacies (both chain and independent) are embracing evolutions in technology, the significance of pharmacy management software cannot be overstated.
In this blog post we delve into the evolution of pharmacy software, the features that matter and the process of transforming pharmaceutical care into a modern practice.
The Early Days: Pharmacy Software Legacy Software_Internal The concept of pharmacy software and Pharmacy Management system is not new.
Pharmacy software in the past was limited to:
Simple stock tracking – Keep track of stock levels and stock the medications.
Easy prescription handing – Print labelling and keep patient records.
Partial integration – The majority of apps operated as standalone tools that were separate from EHRs (electronic health record) and insurance/provider.
Used legacy solutions which, although operational, were slow and error-prone and necessitated manual processes.
Contemporary Pharmacy Software: Main Characteristics
The pharmacy software solutions available in today’s market include a wide variety of advanced features.
Prescription Pad is an office-based clinical tool, all patient prescriptions are printed to address patient errors caused due to handwritten prescriptions.
Seamless workflows by becoming directly integrated with the EHR systems of Physicians.
Automated Inventory Control
Live tracking of medication inventory.
Notifications for low stock, expirations and recalls.
Patient Management & CRM
Retains patient history, allergies and medication compliance details.
It is great for automatic refill reminders and customized care plans.
Billing & Insurance Information
Insurance claims directly with insurance companies in no time.
Reduces denials and gets you paid faster.
Regulatory Filing & Reporting.
Complies with all applicable Federal, State, and local regulations.
Produces audit-ready reports for controlled substances.
Telepharmacy / Mobile Integration
Facilitates TeleConsultancy and ePrescriptions.
Mobile apps for pharmacists and customers for greater access.
Advantages of Advanced Pharmacy Software Features
Higher Precision – Lessens the risk of prescribing mistakes and improves patient safety.
Time Saver – Automation of tasks means less time is needed by pharmacists.
Enhanced patient care – Adaptive drug management and adherence monitoring made possible.
Cost Reductions – Reduce waste with intelligent inventory management.
Scalability – Constructs with growth and multiple locations in mind.
What Is The Future Of Pharmacy Software
There are a number of new, revolutionary technologies on the horizon that will once again dramatically change the way pharmacies are managed:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) –Drug – drug interactions and patient adherence predictive analytics.
Blockchain – Secure and verifiable prescription monitoring.
IoT & Smart Dispensing for Automated dispensing systems and smart pillboxes.
Conclusion
The evolution from old pharmacy software to modern cloud-based solutions has revolutionised the way pharmacies work, enabling them to work more efficiently, be more compliant and improve patient care. Pharmacies will lead the way among these technology-enabled providers, as patients, and the healthcare industry, become more comfortable with digital technologies in healthcare.
