The healthcare industry is in the process of being redefined by some heavy-hitting disruptions. These include increased competition, value-based care, digital health, mHealth technologies, healthcare consumerism, and increased patient care participation. But, the most relevant industry shaper by far is technology. And, it is no surprise, that one of the leading healthcare fields poised for serious technology transformation is the pharmacy industry.

Independent pharmacies already understand that to remain relevant relies on maintaining a competitive edge. Patients are taking a more hands-on approach to their healthcare. With a massive growth in digital options, now is the time for independent pharmacies to embrace the technology currently available to help provide easier access and convenience for their customers.

We’ve done some preliminary research and have outlined three of the most common technologies that pharmacists can implement with minimal disruption to their day-to-day operations:

1. Automated Dispensing Machines (ADM)

With MACRA looming, there is growing pressure on pharmaceutical companies due to possible reimbursement reductions. This pressure can result in an inefficient supply chain or poor inventory management. In fact, based on a 2011 ASHP national survey of pharmacy practice in hospital settings, it was stated that approximately 89 percent of hospitals are using automated dispensing cabinets (1). Implementing an ADM in an independent pharmacy setting can:

• Create a more efficient supply chain
• Manage inventory levels, and thus
• Lessen customer wait times for restocking, and
• Allow pharmacists to track and proactively monitor drug usage (2)

ADMs have proven to be huge loss prevention and money saving devices in hospital pharmacy settings, preventing losses (internal) and tracking returns of unused medication. In an independent setting, these devices can free up your pharmacy staff to better attend to customers in one-on-one interactions, saving your organization money, while allowing for stronger customer relationships to be built.

2. Digital options: Consider apps or patient portals

Many customers have very busy schedules, or simply cannot make it into the pharmacy with their prescription. Creating electronic options for customers to utilize will not only help your current customers, but the convenience it offers will most surely draw in more traffic y:

• Allowing customers to access secure text messaging via smartphones
• Creating a secure e-mail option for customers to utilize
• Partnering with an existing App, or have an App developed, which can be accessed via smartphone.

3. Revisit your website

In the past, before best practices were sifted out through trial and error, most websites were approached as static “online brochures.” But, technology today is moving fast, and if your organization wants to keep up, it’s time to consider a more responsive web design. Some of the benefits of having a responsive web page are:

• Increased traffic both to your website and your store
• Consistency in messaging across multiple devices
• Update one spot and reach across multiple devices
• Design can be implemented with SEO in mind
• Your organization will be in a prime position for new technology to be implemented as it’s introduced – putting your ahead of the game.

A responsive design website that allows for a patient access is an enormous draw for new customers, as well as a strong marketing move. When a patient is shopping for a local pharmacy, they’re going to choose the one who offers value and convenience. By offering a responsive web option, patients will have access to your brand in the snap of a finger.

Your pharmacy does so much more than simply dispensing medications, so why not invest in technology and tools aimed at helping your business make a more meaningful impact? By embracing technology, independent pharmacies have the opportunity to transform an antiquated perception of simple medication dispensaries into one that is vibrant and delivers a patient care-driven resource, which benefits the entire community.

The healthcare field is changing and pharmacies need to focus on best practices that get the best results. Whether you’re looking for clinical, financial, customer service, or compliance related results, technology can help you efficiently and effectively reach your goals.

Be sure to follow this blog for more regulatory and reimbursement intel, tips and bulletins from your partners at alliantRx.

Sources:

(1) http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/automated-dispensing-machine-market-size-to-reach-55-billion-by-2024-grand-view-research-inc-598649521.html#continue-jump
(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2827025/