Medication-use automation has far more capabilities than are currently being used by most organizations in the key areas of patient safety and efficiency. Using a unique discussion format, panelists will address current medication-use automation topics and look toward the future.

The first panel discussion will address questions about how to identify automation capabilities, maximize the use of existing automation technologies, and determine when and which reports to use to improve patent safety. The faculty will also explain how to maximize workflow efficiencies as well as how to ensure regulatory compliance with automation. Potentially underutilized capabilities of these technologies will also be identified and explained.

The second discussion will focus on the future landscape of automation. Panelist will address questions on gaps in current systems and coordination of multiple automation technologies such as bedside scanning, smart pumps, and automated cabinet systems. Panelists will propose the ideal medication-use system of the future and describe the anticipated interaction of future automation with healthcare providers.

Pharmacists who want to make better use of their health-system’s current medication-use technology as well as those who are planning future automation strategies will benefit from attending this symposium. If you are a pharmacy administrator or an informatics pharmacist, you can’t afford to miss this symposium!

Target Audience

This symposium was planned to meet the needs of pharmacy administrators and informatics pharmacists in a variety of health systems, including large and small hospitals, managed care facilities, inpatient facilities, outpatient clinics, and home care settings, as well as academia. This program would be beneficial for those who manage pharmacy operations, are responsible for departmental computer operations and robotics, or work with automated equipment in the department.