CA pharmacies trying automated dispensers for prescriptions
Patient Safety Monitor Alert
August 29, 2005
California has allowed a limited number of pharmacies to try automated drug dispensers, where patients enter their personal information and receive their prescription. The trials are aimed at reducing the wait for customers and stress on pharmacists, according to an article in the Los Angeles Times.
The machines are like ATMs, where the patient steps up and enters information and slides a credit card for payment. The machine then dispenses the medication. The California Board of Pharmacy allows the machines to dispense refills of medications a patient currently takes.
Some pharmacists are skeptical of the devices, however, saying that the ability to speak with a pharmacist is imperative for proper care and patient safety. The machines are fitted with an option that allows a patient to request a conference with a pharmacist.
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