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Effects of simulated facility-design changes on outpatient pharmacy efficiency
A C Lin1, K N Barker, T H Hassall
1School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, AL 36849.
American Journal of Hospital Pharmacy
|January 1, 1988
Summary
The Baker drug counter and Systamodule pharmacy fixture can improve outpatient pharmacy efficiency. Simulation showed reduced prescription-filling time and significant decreases in pharmacist travel distance.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacy Operations
- Health Systems Engineering
- Pharmacokinetics
Background:
- Outpatient pharmacies face challenges in efficiency.
- Pharmacist workflow involves prescription filling and travel.
- Technological solutions may optimize pharmacy operations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of the Baker drug counter and Systamodule pharmacy fixture on outpatient pharmacy efficiency.
- To assess the effect of these devices on prescription-filling time (RxFT) and distance traveled (DT).
Main Methods:
- Computer simulation was used to model the outpatient pharmacy system at the National Institutes of Health.
- A random sample of 20% of two weeks' prescriptions was analyzed.
- Prescription-filling time (RxFT) was estimated via computer program.
- Distance traveled (DT) was calculated from architectural drawings.
Main Results:
- The Baker drug counter alone reduced RxFT by 0.123 minutes per prescription.
- The Systamodule fixture alone reduced RxFT by 0.159 minutes per prescription.
- Combined use reduced RxFT by 0.280 minutes per prescription.
- The Systamodule significantly reduced DT by 86.3% (to 14 feet), both alone and with the Baker counter.
- The Baker counter alone did not significantly change DT.
Conclusions:
- The combination of the Baker drug counter and Systamodule pharmacy fixture enhances outpatient pharmacy efficiency.
- The Systamodule fixture is particularly effective in reducing pharmacist travel distance.
- Implementing these devices can lead to a more streamlined prescription dispensing operation.
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