Why Even the Smallest Pharmacy Needs Cutting-Edge Software

For any business to be competitive in the digital age, they need the best technology available to do their jobs. The medical industry is no exception, in fact, it is perhaps one of the most vital sectors to need cutting edge technology. When it comes to software for pharmacies, there are several practical applications that justify an investment in cutting-edge systems.

Point of Sale

Let’s start at the end. Like any other retail business, pharmacies have point of sale terminals with cash registers and credit card readers. Their goal is to process transactions quickly and be easy to use for employees. In addition, in a pharmaceutical setting, it’s important to be discreet with patients’ medical information and their prescriptions. A great point of sale system will take care of all of this for you.

Inventory

From pre-packaged medications and supplies from vendors to the raw materials needed to fill prescriptions, software for pharmacies helps keep track of the inventory you have on hand. Beyond keeping your business efficient, knowing if you do or do not have a medication or supply on hand can be crucial information for patients and doctors in an emergency.

Signature Capture

Many states require multiple signatures to release certain medications. In some cases, a patient needs to acknowledge that a pharmacist or pharmacist’s assistant has explained how to properly use medication. Secure signature capture hardware and software that allows patients to sign electronically via a stylus or their finger are very helpful in these matters. Using a trusted provider with secure systems and backup can make it easy to retrieve signatures and create and electronic paper trail, should the situation ever arise.

If you offer in-home or on-site delivery to residences, hospitals, or nursing homes, mobile signature capture devices are an invaluable piece of software for pharmacies. All the features of the in-store units still apply, with wireless transmission added to the equation.

Communication with Physicians

Finally, different hospitals and clinics prefer different methods of communication from physicians and pharmacists. While they have been phased out of many businesses, fax machines are still preferred tools in many of these settings. There are software solutions that can combine fax technology with other methods of wired and wireless communication. For physicians that prefer email or text messaging (either automated or manually sent), software for pharmacies can make this easier too.

Pharmacies need to stay ahead of the technological curve. Cutting-edge software makes this painless for pharmacists and their staffs.