Technology in the Pharmacy: How It Impacts Pharmacy Technicians

Technology plays a massive part in improving many industries, including healthcare and pharmacy. Modern pharmacy technology helps improve task organization and patient care while minimizing errors. The role of Pharmacy Technicians, who assist pharmacists in daily operations, has changed with the advancement of technology.

Automation in the Filling of Prescription

Most of the changes technology has brought to the pharmacy setting pertain to filling prescriptions. The new automated class of systems can accurately perform counting, labeling, and packaging tasks. With the help of technology, the chances of human error that could be produced during medication discharge and proper dosage for the patient are reduced.

This will free the pharmacy technicians to engage in more patient-centered activities rather than tedious, manual pill counting. According to the World Health Organization, a study reported that advanced technological tools can reduce medication errors by as much as 50%, hence guaranteeing the safety of the patients.

Electronic Health Records

The storage and sharing of patient information have revolutionized how healthcare providers interact with patients. EHRs allow pharmacy technicians to access patient records much quicker and promptly. Efficiency in obtaining patient records will enable technicians to verify prescriptions for accuracy, check for potential drug interactions, and ensure that patients receive their correct medication.

EHR systems will also allow pharmacy technicians to quickly contact doctors and other healthcare professionals. Supporting medical history and prescription availability within minutes will allow smoother operations and better handling patient needs.

Telepharmacy and Remote Services

Telepharmacy is a new trend in which pharmacists can use technology to provide services to patients in remote or underserved areas. This would be valuable to rural communities where a pharmacy is needed. Pharmacy technicians are critical for managing day-to-day operations, preparing medications, and coordinating communication between patients and pharmacists.

With telepharmacy technology, patients can consult a pharmacist online while the technician ensures proper medication dispensing and delivery. This enhances care access and provides opportunities for pharmacy technicians, especially in remote locations.

Inventory Management Systems

Drug inventory management has always been an essential function of any pharmacy, and technology has made it much more accessible for a pharmacy technician. This consists of an automated inventory management system that maintains real-time track of medications on hand, alerting technicians when stock has reached reorder levels, or when a medication is about to expire.

Tips for Using the Latest Technology as a Pharmacy Technician

The following are some helpful tips that can assist pharmacy technicians in getting the most from  modern technology:

• Keep Updated: Undergo regular training on new tools and systems introduced in the pharmacy.
• Follow Security Measures: To safeguard patient information, one should always employ security measures like password protection and encryption.
• Practice Accuracy: Verify all entries against automated systems for accuracy regarding prescription processing.
• Ask for Help: If you need clarification about a new system or tool,  feel free to ask for help.
  

Conclusion

The more technology advances, the more the role of the pharmacy technician can grow with added opportunity and responsibility. If you want to be a pharmacy technician and learn the usage of advanced technologies, enroll at Northwest Career College today. Our program is considered one of the best in offering complete training for becoming a successful pharmacy technician.