Remote dispensing
Remote Dispensing
Remote dispensing (pronunciation: /rɪˈmoʊt dɪˈspɛnsɪŋ/) refers to the process of delivering prescription medications to patients from a distance, often through automated systems. This practice is increasingly common in pharmacy settings, particularly in rural areas where access to a physical pharmacy may be limited.
Etymology
The term "remote dispensing" is derived from the English words "remote," meaning distant or far away, and "dispensing," which refers to the act of giving out something to a number of people. In the context of pharmacy, dispensing typically refers to the process of preparing and giving out prescription medications to patients.
Process
In a remote dispensing system, a pharmacist reviews and approves prescriptions electronically. The medications are then dispensed by an automated system, which may be located in a different geographical location from the pharmacist. The dispensed medications are typically delivered to the patient by mail or through a drive-through pickup window.
Related Terms
- Telepharmacy: This is a broader term that encompasses all aspects of providing pharmacy services remotely, including remote dispensing.
- Automated dispensing cabinet: This is a type of technology often used in remote dispensing systems to store and dispense medications.
- E-prescribing: This is the practice of sending prescriptions electronically, which is often a key component of remote dispensing systems.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Remote dispensing offers several advantages, including increased access to medications for patients in remote areas and potential cost savings. However, it also presents challenges, such as ensuring the accuracy of the dispensing process and maintaining the security of patients' personal health information.
Regulation
The regulation of remote dispensing varies by jurisdiction. In some areas, remote dispensing is fully permitted, while in others it may be restricted or prohibited. Regulations may address issues such as the types of medications that can be dispensed remotely, the qualifications of the personnel involved in the process, and the security measures that must be in place.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Remote dispensing
- Wikipedia's article - Remote dispensing
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski