Joint Base Andrews –
The 779th Medical Group recently introduced an "after-hours" medication dispensing machine (PickPoint LxS Remote Dispensing System™) located in their Emergency Department. Most patients seen in the Malcolm Grow Medical Center emergency department may now be able to leave with all of their prescription medications when the pharmacy is closed.
The process begins with the provider entering the prescription information into the computer system. After checking for medication interactions and allergies, a prescription label and Patient Education Sheet are generated and the medication is delivered by the PickPoint™. The provider labels the bottle, dispenses the medication and gives the Patient Education Sheet to the patient upon discharge. They may also answer any questions the patient may have.
The Pick Point™ machine holds approximately 90 different medications. Each prescription will have an adequate quantity of medication for a standard course of treatment. This remote dispensing system will enable the pharmacy to securely store, manage and track the medications utilizing bar code technology.
The new process will help alleviate the need for patients discharged from the emergency department to locate network pharmacy services during the late night hours.