We have developed our pharmacy into a modern state of the art pharmacy by rebranding ourselves, installing a dispensing robot, adding three consultation rooms, creating a workflow to allow more staff-patient contact (including pharmacist) by introducing direct dispensing from the front counters.
By intelligent use of lighting, a modern colour scheme, with graphics, a new logo and a new layout, plus recycling some existing metal shelving and not going too overboard on the specification or finish the pharmacy looks very professional and clean.
Some people who have invested in robots have done it to reduce staff costs, but our main intention was to reduce stress and free up time to provide and develop more services. The robot we chose was the new Vmax from ARX. We became the first shop in this country, and the third in europe, to install this machine.
The refit has helped in many ways. It has created a more peaceful work environment, with relaxing music throughout the shop and 2 lcd tvs on to entertain the customers whilst they are waiting. A childrens area with childrens tv on to keep them occupied and happy whilst parents are shopping or talking to the pharmacist. Plus an advice counter in addition to the 3 consulting rooms to provide greater care for the community. We have a very modern looking shop inside and outside with a new sign outside also grabbing peoples attention as they are driving by.
It has given all staff more time to provide more services to our customers. The 3 consulting rooms are being put to good use. We are now involved in Emergency hormonal contraception, Smoking cessation, conducting Medication Use Review’s, contraceptive pill service (we were part of the pilot), weight management scheme, blood pressure checking, observed methadone, needle exchange, we are an antiviral collection point and offer diabetic screening.
We have also gained new customers and prescription numbers are already up nearly 15%, although it feels less busy, the robot has allowed us to work more efficiently, with reduced waiting times and more time to counsel. The response from customers and other healthcare professionals has all been very positive. As the pharmacist time has been freed up we have more opportunity to partake in extra counselling for patients and increase our number of Medicine Use Review’s and staff have been able to spend extra time with our existing and new customers, and increased their training needs.
Overall it has made us realise the importance of good design and the affect it has on all areas.