Experience with an automated point-of-use unit-dose drug distribution system

Two years' experience with an automated, point-of-use unit-dose system at the University of California, San Diego Medical Center (UCSDMC) is described. Growing concerns about the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the traditional unit-dose drug distribution system at UCSDMC, and the corresponding diversion of professional staff time from pharmaceutical care responsibilities, led us to investigate alternative systems. Criteria for a new system were developed and used in evaluating alternatives. Consideration was given to three possibilities: 1) improving the existing system, 2) automating the unit-dose cassette fill process, or 3) automating the final step in medication delivery at the nursing station. Based on the realization that our traditional unit-dose system was largely inefficient in today's hospital environment, it was concluded that the drug distribution system needed to be re-engineered in a way that simplified delivery and reduced waiting time. The Medstation Rx system marketed by the Pyxis Corporation (San Diego, CA) seemed to meet the need. During a 2-year period a Medstation Rx system was implemented in most of the hospital (in all but three specialty units) and evaluated. This system has resulted in several benefits, including a net savings in labor costs, a significant reduction in waiting time for first doses, and a reduction in dispensing errors. In the process, it was possible to minimize the disruption of pharmacists engaged in the direct provision of pharmaceutical care, thereby increasing their efficiency.