Pharmacy Patient Journey Transformation- Outpatient Pharmacy Automation System (OPAS)
Care Process & Redesign
Technology
National Healthcare Group Quality Improvement
National Healthcare Group
31 December 2019
To achieve transformational changes in the workflow for ordering, picking, packing, and dispensing medications in the. The OPAS system successfully transformed outpatient pharmacy operations, delivering measurable improvements in accuracy, efficiency.
Year Submitted: 2019
Published Date: 31 December 2019
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Technology, Quality Improvement, Workflow Redesign, Productivity, Manhour Saving, Value Based Care, Safe Care, Digitalisation, Automation, Digital Platforms, Robotics/Autonomous Systems, Access To Care, Waiting Time
About this Content
Aims
To achieve transformational changes in the workflow for ordering, picking, packing, and dispensing medications in the outpatient pharmacy.
Background
Before OPAS, outpatient pharmacy processes involved long wait times (average 40 minutes), high rework rates (30%), and frequent picking/packing errors due to manual processes.
Methods
Implemented OPAS, which included technologies such as ROWA, PARATA, conveyor systems, robotic arms, and Rxpress software. Pharmacy Technicians were trained to perform Medication Supply Verification (MSV).
Results
Rework rates reduced from 30% to 5%. Zero medication dispensing errors achieved. 19 staff were redeployed, 10 of whom transitioned to MSV processes. Improved layout enhanced patient satisfaction and accessibility.
Conclusion
The OPAS system successfully transformed outpatient pharmacy operations, delivering measurable improvements in accuracy, efficiency, and manpower optimization.
Lessons Learnt
Workflow redesign using Lean tools like Value Stream Mapping (VSM) eliminated waste. Automation improved safety, reduced errors, and increased productivity. Collaboration across teams was crucial for success.
Additional Information
Recognized with the TTSH Milestone Award 2019.
Keywords
Care Redesign, Automation, IT & Robotics, Productivity, Lean Methodology, Patient Safety, Manpower Optimization, Value Stream Mapping
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | Tan Tock Seng Hospital |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Group Quality Improvement |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Pharmacy, Healthcare Administration |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Pharmacology, Healthcare Administrators |
Project Lead(s) | Lim Hong Yee |
Project Member(s) | Not explicitly listed |
Connect with this contributor!
Lim Hong Yee - Hong_Yee_Lim@ttsh.com.sg
Project Attachment
343_TTSH_TTSH_Milestone_Award_2019_Pharmacy_Patient_Journey_Transformation_OPAS_combine.pdf