Whether you run an urgent care clinic, a multi-site healthcare facility, or private practice, you can increase patient adherence and satisfaction by implementing an  in-office dispensing  program. This system allows for enhanced patient care that will streamline the services you render as a healthcare provider.However, establishing a fully-functional in-office dispensing program takes time to fine-tune. Here are some characteristics that the facility must embody and optimize: 

1. There must be an efficient workflow 

For an in-office dispensing program to work, it must have an efficient workflow and a synergistic process. If you’re unsure of where to start then you must seek the help of in-office dispensing consultants.

An efficient in-office dispensing system is one that has:

• Seamless integration of the technology used by the practice
• A transparent and comprehensive billing platform
• An automated system that can track refills, manage inventory, record dispensing transactions and handle submission of PDMP reports

But above all else, they key to a successful in-office dispensing system is a well trained staff who fully understands not only the proper steps and functions of the system, but why it was implemented in the first place. This is where choosing the right dispensing management company can play a big role in the success of your dispensary. You’ll want to ensure that they have knowledge of the industry and are prepared to assist not just at the initial install, but for the life of your program.

2. It must foster patient engagement

An in office dispensing program should encourage teamwork between the doctors, nurses and administrative staff in dealing and engaging with the patient. This teamwork will boost the communication and interaction of the patient with the clinic staff, which can significantly impact how many patients participate in the program.  

A study published in Health Affairs revealed that patients, more than anything, want comprehensive communication between their healthcare providers. The in-office dispensing program can keep track of the patient’s compliance, adverse events and responses to treatments – especially if there is an efficient workflow. Thus, allowing the doctors, nurses and the clinic staff to better relay their concerns to the patient during consultations.

Patients are also likely to appreciate and understand medical instructions more when doctors, nurses and the staff take time to explain this to them during their visits to the clinic for a prescription refill.

3. It should improve patient compliance. 

Over 31% of prescriptions aren’t actually fulfilled, according to a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine. When patients do not fill their prescriptions they don’t get the proper treatment needed, which will ultimately increase the long-term cost of their healthcare. 

On the other hand, when there’s an in-office drug dispensing facility set up by a respectable in-office dispensing company, the doctors and staff can ensure that the patient is following through on the treatment plan. It is also a lot more convenient for the patient when they can get their medications, or prescriptions before leaving the doctor’s office. 

Such a system eliminates neglect of filling the prescription. This saves the patients’ time and effort, which in turn improves their satisfaction for their health care providers and speeds up their healing process.

Where can you find the best in-office dispensing companies?

If you are considering an in-office medication dispensing system for your practice, First Coast Health Solutions provides the right dispensing program for you. It is the leading full-service Physician In-Office Dispensing Pharmacy committed to helping physicians achieve the best possible dispensing services for patients. For more information, do not hesitate to Contact Us.

Become a Member to post Articles Back to Profile