What are the triggers To opt FOR PHARMACY AUTOMATION FOR BLISTER CARD PRODUCTION?

Pharmacy automation

Pharmacy automation has become a key element of pharmacy development. Pharmacies around the world are increasingly adopting these solutions, what are the triggers for this process?

Pharmacy automation

1. Labour shortage

For several years, pharmacies have been suffering from labour shortages, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only worsened this phenomenon. In August, more than three-quarters of community pharmacists reported that they were having difficulty filling vacancies. This year, due to this labour shortage, many pharmacy chains have announced plans to reduce their pharmacy hours and/or the hours of work for their employees.

This phenomenon is one of the factors triggering the automation process in pharmacies. Indeed, the use of automation solutions allows pharmacies to :

  • Free up staff time: Reducing repetitive manual tasks saves time, which reduces stress on employees who can then focus more on patient interactions.
  • Attract new profiles of workers who like new technologies: Automated systems can be managed by operators who are not pharmacy technicians, thus broadening the pool of potential candidates.
  • Offer better working conditions: As automated systems have a higher productivity than manual filling, the time needed to produce blister cards will be reduced, allowing for more attractive working hours.

Pharmacy automation

2. Prescription volume

The second trigger is prescription volume. Depending on the volume of prescriptions, the needs of pharmacies will be different. However, regardless of the prescription volume, automation can be beneficial.

  • Pharmacies with a low prescription volume can consider a semi-automated production process. There are still efficiency gains, and guidance will reduces the risk of error.
  • Pharmacies with a medium to high production volume should consider automated production. Again, the benefits are twofold: reducing the risk of error while significantly increasing productivity.

Pharmacy automation

3. Type of clientele

The third factor that triggers the need for pharmacy automation is the type of customer. Indeed, depending on the pharmacy’s clientele, providing a medication management program which includes blister cards could be highly beneficial. 

Different criteria can help you determine the best packaging for your customers:

Your customer base may impact your decision to move to automation for your blister card production

To discuss the automation of blister card production in pharmacies with an expert, contact us!