Optimization of Automated Dispensing Machines and Justifying Cost Neutralization for Nurse-Link and Pharmogistics Implementation

Mehta, Arpit (2013) Optimization of Automated Dispensing Machines and Justifying Cost Neutralization for Nurse-Link and Pharmogistics Implementation. Master Essay, University of Pittsburgh.

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Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The use of automated dispensing machines (ADM) continues to evolve and is an increasingly prevalent component of the medication-use process in health care organizations today. The rapid development of technology applications in health care, including ADM, has raised concerns about cost, patient safety and access to medications. At WPAHS, there were concerns regarding nursing inefficiencies in patient care as it became necessary to take additional steps, increased lines during busy med-pass times, additional phone calls and delay in care. Also, concerns within the Pharmacy department of not being able to track inventory of medications on hand, especially when medication shortages were at the high point. There was a need to evaluate and optimize current technology and look into additional resources available to provide safe and quality care to our patients. METHOD: Knowledge portal’s Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were used for inventory management as part of the Pyxis optimization. Knowledge portal was also used to collect data, generate reports and monitor trends on Pyxis usage for the past year. A business plan, part of the Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) was created to justify the cost of system-wide implementation of Nurse-Link and Pharmogistics. RESULTS: Eighteen machines at AGH and two machines at WPH were identified to be removed based on lower usage. Cost savings justification of $40,690.13 at year 1 and $85,080.00 thereafter annually was projected. Increase in the Vend-to-refill ratio and decrease in the stock-out percentages in three out of four machines post optimization was observed. Eighteen non-emergent medications were removed from all four machines and ten new medications were added to all four machines. CONCLUSION/PUBLIC HEALTH SIGNIFICANCE: A “how to guide” to optimize Pyxis machines was created to optimize inventory, lower waste of expired medications and increase efficiency along with the justification of cost neutralization for Nurse-Link and Pharmogistics implementation. Implementation of Nurse-Link and Pharmogistics can significantly improve nursing and pharmacy efficiencies, transform safe patient care at bedside, drive to lean process and improve the complexity of medication administration, inventory, re-fill and ordering processes. Rising health care costs with shifting reimbursement structure in United States compels institutions to provide higher quality patient care at lower cost. By evaluating and optimizing current technology and investing in additional resources such as Nurse-Link and Pharmogistics allows WPAHS to provide a quality and cost effective care to our patients.

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Details

Item Type:	Other Thesis, Dissertation, or Long Paper (Master Essay)
Status:	Unpublished
Creators/Authors:	Creators Email Pitt Username ORCID Mehta, Arpit
Contributors:	Contribution Contributors Name Email Pitt Username ORCID Committee Chair Finegold, David dnf@pitt.edu DNF UNSPECIFIED Committee Member LaPorte, Ronald ronaldlaporte@gmail.com UNSPECIFIED UNSPECIFIED
Date:	December 2013
Date Type:	Publication
Access Restriction:	No restriction; Release the ETD for access worldwide immediately.
Publisher:	University of Pittsburgh
Institution:	University of Pittsburgh
Schools and Programs:	School of Public Health > Multidisciplinary MPH
Degree:	MPH - Master of Public Health
Thesis Type:	Master Essay
Refereed:	No
Date Deposited:	13 Feb 2014 20:34
Last Modified:	04 Jul 2023 11:56
URI:	http://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/id/eprint/20158

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