The work at the pharmacy: Sweden and The Netherlands compared

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Health Services Research
• Workplace Organization

Background:

• Implementation of a new prescription-filling workflow, the 'counter model', at Pharmacy Orden in Apeldoorn, Netherlands.
• The model was inspired by the working methods observed at Pharmacy Ekorren in Sweden.
• Comparative study focusing on workflow, communication, time efficiency, and personnel perceptions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the 'counter model' at Pharmacy Orden with the existing system at Pharmacy Ekorren.
• To evaluate the impact of the new model on prescription-filling efficiency and communication.
• To assess personnel satisfaction with workload and inter-professional dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of workflow systems between two pharmacies.
• Observation and measurement of communication patterns and time spent on prescription filling.
• Surveys or interviews to gauge personnel perceptions of workload and job satisfaction.

Main Results:

• Pharmacy Orden experienced fewer communication disturbances and required less advice during prescription filling.
• Prescription filling time was approximately two minutes shorter at Pharmacy Orden.
• Personnel at both pharmacies reported satisfaction with physical and psychological workload.
• Technicians at Pharmacy Ekorren reported feeling subordinate to higher-educated prescriptionists.

Conclusions:

• The 'counter model' at Pharmacy Orden demonstrated improved efficiency and reduced communication issues.
• Workload and job satisfaction were comparable across both pharmacies, despite differences in workflow.
• Hierarchical perceptions among pharmacy staff, particularly in the Swedish setting, warrant further attention.