Journal of American Pharmacists Association

September-October 2011, Vol. 51, No. 5 >

Research Notes

Exploring the impact of an automated prescription-filling device on community pharmacy technician workflow

Kristin E. Walsh, PharmD; Michelle Anne Chui, PharmD, PhD; Mara A. Kieser, MS, BSPharm; Staci M. Williams, PharmD; Susan L. Sutter, BSPharm; John G. Sutter, BSPharm

J Am Pharm Assoc. 2011;51:613-618. doi:10.1331/JAPhA.2011.09166

Article

References

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Abstract

Objective To explore community pharmacy technician workflow change after implementation of an automated robotic prescription-filling device.

Methods At an independent community pharmacy in rural Mayville, WI, pharmacy technicians were observed before and 3 months after installation of an automated robotic prescription-filling device. The main outcome measures were sequences and timing of technician workflow steps, workflow interruptions, automation surprises, and workarounds.

Results Of the 77 and 80 observations made before and 3 months after robot installation, respectively, 17 different workflow sequences were observed before installation and 38 after installation. Average prescription filling time was reduced by 40 seconds per prescription with use of the robot. Workflow interruptions per observation increased from 1.49 to 1.79 (P = 0.11), and workarounds increased from 10% to 36% after robot use.

Conclusion Although automated prescription-filling devices can increase efficiency, workflow interruptions and workarounds may negate that efficiency. Assessing changes in workflow and sequencing of tasks that may result from the use of automation can help uncover opportunities for workflow policy and procedure redesign.

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References

Flynn EA, Barker KN. Effect of an automated dispensing system on errors in two pharmacies. J Am Pharm Assoc. 2006;46:613–5.[CrossRef]

Angelo LB, Christensen DB, Ferreri SP. Impact of community pharmacy automation on workflow, workload, and patient interaction. J Am Pharm Assoc. 2005;45:138–44.

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Carayon P, Wetterneck TB, Schoofs Hundt A, et al. Evaluation of nurse interaction with bar code medication administration technology in the work environment. J Patient Saf. 2007;3:34–42.

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