New Study Highlights Benefits of Medication Management Automation in Long-Term Care Facilities
- 71% reduction in medication retrieval time with automated dispensing cabinets
- 96% reduction in unscheduled medication delivery costs, saving $8,900
- 59% decrease in pharmacy technician medication preparation time
- 80% decrease in pharmacist check-time
- Over $10,000 reduction in standing medication inventory
- Positive feedback from nurses on the ease of use and efficiency of the ADC system
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Insights
The integration of automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs) like BD Pyxis™ MedBank™ into long-term care facilities represents a significant technological advancement in medication management. The study's findings of a 71% reduction in medication retrieval time and a 96% reduction in the cost of unscheduled medication deliveries indicate substantial operational efficiencies. Such improvements can lead to enhanced patient care due to quicker access to medications and reduced potential for errors.
From an inventory management perspective, the reduction in standing medication inventory by over $10,000 not only implies cost savings but also suggests a more efficient use of resources. This could be attributed to the ADC's ability to provide real-time tracking and control over medication stock levels, thereby minimizing waste and ensuring the availability of a diverse range of medications for urgent needs.
The financial implications of deploying ADC technology in long-term care facilities are noteworthy. A cost savings of $8,900 over 90 days in just two facilities scales up significantly when extrapolated across the broader network of long-term care facilities that may adopt this technology. Additionally, the decrease in pharmacist check-time by 80% and pharmacy technician preparation time by 59% suggests that labor costs could be substantially reduced, potentially improving the profit margins for healthcare providers.
For investors, these operational and financial improvements could translate into a positive impact on BD's stock performance, as the company demonstrates the ability to drive cost efficiencies and enhance workflow in healthcare settings. This is particularly relevant given the growing population of older adults and the associated increase in demand for long-term care services.
The clinical implications of the study are equally important. The survey indicating that 40 nurses preferred the ADC system over manual kits underscores the potential for widespread adoption due to user satisfaction. Additionally, the improvement in medication availability aligns with the goal of providing timely patient care, which is critical in managing the complex needs of long-term care patients. The study, being peer-reviewed and published in a reputable journal, adds to its credibility and could influence decision-making in healthcare procurement.
It's important to note that while the study shows promising results, the long-term impact on patient outcomes remains to be fully understood. However, the immediate benefits in terms of operational efficiency and cost savings are clear indicators of the ADC system's potential to transform medication management in long-term care facilities.
Results Show Clinical Workflow, Operational Efficiency and Financial Improvements When Using Automated Dispensing Cabinets
This novel, peer-reviewed study, published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association (JAPhA), assessed various endpoints related to the management of first, missing and emergency dose medications over a 90-day period after replacing manual emergency medication kits with the BD Pyxis™ MedBank™ automated dispensing cabinet (ADC) system at two long-term care facilities serviced by an off-site pharmacy.
Over a 90-day period in the long-term care facilities, medication dispensing automation and the associated workflow changes led to a
"Minutes matter when it comes to getting the right medication to the right patient at the right time," said Dr. Idal Beer, medical director and vice president of Medical Affairs for Medication Management Solutions at BD. "This is especially true in long-term care settings, where patients have increasingly complex needs and nursing staff are managing high patient-to-provider ratios. While the adoption of technology has traditionally lagged in long-term care settings, the results of this landmark study make a clear case for the power of automation to enhance patient care and alleviate labor challenges."
The study also highlighted pharmacy labor, time and inventory savings. Pharmacy technician medication preparation time and pharmacist check-time decreased by
Finally, a perception survey of 40 nurses showed the majority preferred working with the ADC system and found it easier to locate and document medications, as compared to working with manual emergency medication kits.
"At BD, we recognize that the ever-changing health care landscape requires a safer, simpler and smarter approach to medication management," said Puneet Sarin, president of Medication Management Solutions for BD. "With a rapidly growing population of older adults entering long-term care facilities, we must look to technology, like BD Pyxis™ MedBank™ automated dispensing cabinets, to manage operating costs, reduce the burden on health care providers and improve patient care."
About BD
BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care. The company supports the heroes on the frontlines of health care by developing innovative technology, services and solutions that help advance both clinical therapy for patients and clinical process for health care providers. BD and its more than 70,000 employees have a passion and commitment to help enhance the safety and efficiency of clinicians' care delivery process, enable laboratory scientists to accurately detect disease and advance researchers' capabilities to develop the next generation of diagnostics and therapeutics. BD has a presence in virtually every country and partners with organizations around the world to address some of the most challenging global health issues. By working in close collaboration with customers, BD can help enhance outcomes, lower costs, increase efficiencies, improve safety and expand access to health care. For more information on BD, please visit bd.com or connect with us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/bd1/, X (formerly Twitter) @BDandCo or Instagram @becton_dickinson.
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SOURCE BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company)
FAQ
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