Filling medications at pharmacies has long been the ‘norm’ for most patients. So, for many, it comes as a surprize to learn that they have the option of filling their scripts at their doctor’s office. But why would patients prefer physician dispensing versus pharmacy?
Is There Upselling?
Many pharmacies upsell products, such as cosmetics or groceries. While convenient for patients, they are marked at a higher price.
Pharmacies know patients may make impulse buys while waiting for their medications. They are strategic in their advertising and product placement. Patients end up spending extra money when they had no intention to do so.
By contrast, if patients fill at their doctor’s office, they avoid this trap. It saves patients money over time as they are not making impulse buys. There is no upselling with office dispensing.
What about Patient Education?
Pharmacists can be an excellent resources in terms of medication education. However, the problem is they often do not have the time. It is also often the case that patients notice the pharmacy’s rush and don’t want to be a ‘bother’ by asking too many questions. Another reason is that such questions can feel uncomfortable, especially when other customers are waiting in line. They are more likely to discuss concerns with their physician in privacy.
Is it Confidential?
Doctor dispensing medication in an office avoids potential embarrassment. Some patients do not want their name or mediation information called out while other customers are waiting, as is often the case at pharmacies.
Privacy is of paramount concern. Even verifying a patient’s birthday, address, and phone number can be upsetting or risky. Patients appreciate having a private environment to receive medication and ask for information.
What About Safety Concerns?
Unfortunately, pharmacist errors are increasing. The National Pharmacy Association reports a growing number of calls about dispensing errors and patient safety.
Experts suggest errors are increasing due to the increased number of prescriptions. Pharmacists and technicians are overwhelmed with the number of medications they need to fill for their customers. Unfortunately, they often work without the support staff required to meet demand.
However, the good news is that physician dispensing can decrease these errors, because they serve a smaller number of patients. What is more, the dispensing software tracks patients and medications to eliminate harmful mistakes.
Does Office Dispensing Save Time?
Office dispensing saves time for both the physician and the patient. Patients are waiting in increasingly longer lines at their pharmacies. At times, they may delay picking up medication or abandon it altogether due to pharmacy lines.
Patients and physicians want to see improvements in the conditions treated. In-office dispensing gives patients access to medication quickly so they can begin the therapy immediately.
Medical office staff also find it takes less time to fill the medication on site. There is no wasted time faxing and communicating information to a busy pharmacy.
Does Physician Dispensing Provide Revenue?
Offices that use physician dispensing systems do see increased revenue. There is a profit made from medication sales. There is also the potential to distribute durable medical equipment, which may also be profitable for the office.
Learn More About the Benefits of a Drug Dispensing System at First Coast Health Solutions
First Coast Health Solutions (FCHS) is a leading national medication dispensing software for physicians. We dispense only FDA approved, pre-packaged medications from a reliable web-based dispensing system.
Our priority is to promote the establishment of a medical environment that is compliant and delivers quality patient care.
To find out more about our programs, visit our website. Alternatively, contact us:
- Call us at 904-350-1155, or 904-350-1157
- Send us an email: info@firstcoasthealthsolutions.com
- Fill in our online contact form
- Drop us a visit: First Coast Health Solutions, 211 North Liberty Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202, USA
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
References
Andalo, D. (2018, August 20). Community pharmacy patient safety errors increase by 64%. Retrieved from https://www.pharmaceutical-journal.com/news-and-analysis/news/community-pharmacy-patient-safety-errors-increase-by-20205334.fullarticle?firstPass=false
