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Integrated System
Best suited for medium – large volume decommission
These systems are integrated into an existing system (such as the stock control system). Such solutions would normally incorporate the scan into the normal business process workflow and minimise the ‘additional operator’ demand or provide a business benefit that allows the increased staff time for scanning to be off-set by other benefits. System suppliers may be taking an incremental approach to offering such ‘business benefits’ but should be looking to deliver these within a reasonable timescale post February 2019.
Delegated staff member scans medicines using a 2D compliant scanning device. Existing systems used to record dispensing activity and/or stock control are automatically updated with pack information, reducing the manual data entry need.
Automated
Best suited for small volume decommission
These are solutions such as robotic systems where the barcode scan is a normal part of the ‘loading’ of the machine and where the output from the machine can be attributed to an individual, identifiable pack. These systems have developed the links to the NMVS to support verification messages on ‘receipt’ or loading and decommission messages on supply. There would need to be a facility to support scanning of ‘non-robot’ items. Such systems minimise the staff implications of FMD scans but may require further integration with stock control systems to leverage full ‘user-benefits’ from the use of FMD barcodes.
Stock or order fulfilment machines, such as robotic dispensing machines, perform the FMD scanning as the pack flows through the machine. May or may not be integrated with other pharmacy systems.
Further information
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NHS Improvement conventional process mapping
If you are interested in joining please email us. For help in understanding how to map your processes.
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Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)
Implementation guidance from MHRA.
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SecurMed registration
SecurMed UK is the UK medicines verification organisation registration and further information.