From new uses and strategies related to central fill to improvements in telepharmacy, transformative technologies continue to empower pharmacists to deliver more efficient and effective services.
So, what new tools are in the adoption phase today? What pharmacy practice innovations are on the next horizon? What legislative and regulatory efforts are currently in progress that may impact the development and implementation of emerging technologies?
Investing in Central Fill
Central fill is no longer just “nice to have,” but a necessity for modern pharmacies. Large pharmacy organizations are making investments in central fill infrastructure. Adopting central fill systems helps these organizations maintain efficiency and service quality despite the challenges posed by the changing pharmacy landscape. Recent innovative applications of technology have improved the efficiency of central fill, encouraging many larger community and chain pharmacies to use this model, enabling pharmacists and pharmacy staff to shift their time away from dispensing routine prescriptions to focusing on more complex patient needs.
Central fill is also driving changes in transportation and logistics, making them more efficient and better coordinated with each part of the supply chain. By streamlining these processes, pharmacies can ensure timely delivery and availability of medications, further enhancing patient care.
Technology May Promote Smoother Pharmacy Workflows
Another small revolution in pharmacy practice involves automation and smart devices intended to streamline workflows and allow pharmacists to focus more on patient care. At a time when many parts of the country are facing shortages of qualified pharmacy staff, this technology has proved especially valuable. For example, automated dispensing systems (ADS) use robotics and computer algorithms to accurately and efficiently dispense medications, reducing the risk of human error. ADS can manage high volumes of medications and free up pharmacists and technicians to concentrate on clinical services and other tasks. Researchers have found that the implementation of ADS may provide several benefits, including enhanced inventory management and a significant reduction in medication errors.
Telepharmacy Continues to Increase Access to Care
Telehealth and telepharmacy have also been an important component of modern pharmacy practice for some time, but advances in technology, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions and safety precautions taken in many workplaces, have changed how pharmacists are able to supervise pharmacy technicians and interns. In fact, the definitions of telepharmacy have expanded and changed significantly enough in recent years to warrant notable updates to The Model State Pharmacy Act and Model Rules of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.
The remote delivery of care through various telecommunications technologies has emerged as an important way to help rural and underserved communities access important services. Telepharmacy services allow pharmacists to provide consultations, medication reviews, and patient counseling without the need for a physical presence when regulations allow.
As this technology and its regulation continue to evolve, it is expected to play a large role in bridging the gap between patients and pharmacists, particularly in areas with limited health care resources.
Regulators Have a Role to Play in This Ongoing Conversation
The regulatory framework surrounding technology and its role in health care is an important part of how this technology can be implemented. State and federal regulations play a critical role in this process and help ensure a balance between patient safety and making sure the industry has what it needs to continue providing tools for patient care. A collaborative approach involving regulatory agencies, pharmacy professionals, technology developers, patient advocacy groups, and more is at the heart of this year’s Presidential Initiative.
Through this initiative, and through its other programs and services, NABP remains committed to supporting the pharmacy community in navigating the complex world of pharmacy practice and regulation. NABP and its member boards will also maintain their shared commitment to protecting the public health by fostering a collaborative and adaptive regulatory environment. As the industry continues to explore the full potential of technology to improve patient care, enhance operational efficiency, and propel the pharmacy profession forward, NABP will continue to provide updates on this topic.
This blog was adapted from an article that originally appeared in the September/October 2024 issue of Innovations.