Time and cost analysis of a computerized outpatient pharmacy

The time and cost of implementing and operating a computerized outpatient pharmacy was compared with similar components of a traditional system. Time and motion observations were used to analyze the time required to complete each component of the dispensing process for outpatient prescriptions and clinic-administered medications. Capital equipment expenditures and operating costs were compared for both systems. The computerized dispensing process for outpatient prescriptions showed a significant decrease in total dispensing process time, attributed primarily to the clerical component. Total dispensing process times for clinic-administered medications were not significantly different for the two systems. As compared with the traditional system, the computerized system's implementation and operating costs were higher for both outpatient prescriptions and clinic-administered medications. The computerized system decreased the time needed to complete the dispensing process but at an increased cost when compared with a traditional dispensing system.