As the owner of an independent pharmacy, you have challenges. Competing with chain pharmacies and big box stores is hard, especially when you don’t have up-to-date equipment or room to manage pharmacy casework. Updating your pharmacy to meet today’s customer expectations attracts not only business but also improves efficiency and compliance with critical regulations. If you don't know where to start, here are three signs your business needs a refresh. 

What Factors Make a Pharmacy Outdated?

1. Problems with Compliance

Pharmacies follow the rules and procedures of multiple federal organizations, including the FDA, the DEA, and the EPA. Pharmacies also fall under HIPAA privacy rules. Each agency has specific regulations for pharmacies to follow, and failure to do so could mean tens of thousands of dollars in fines and other sanctions.

For example, pharmacies must have physical safeguards in place to protect patient health information, including private areas where the pharmacist can discuss medications with patients. If your pharmacy’s design prevents full compliance with all regulations, or you haven’t implemented adequate processes and procedures because your current equipment is incompatible, then it’s past time for an update. 

2. Workflows are Inefficient

When your team cannot fill prescriptions safely and efficiently because of the pharmacy layout, and pharmacy casework is slow because of poor workflow, your business suffers. Pharmacists and technicians should be able to fill prescriptions with a minimum of steps, which requires the pharmacy to optimize for maximum efficiency. From the storage shelves and counter workspaces to the consultation areas, everything should be designed and planned to maximize efficiency. 

3. Everything Looks Old 

There’s a certain charm to an old-fashioned store. But there's a difference between old-fashioned and outdated. If it looks like your shop hasn't had a refresh since the 1970s or if everything always appears dirty and dingy despite cleaning, then it’s time to invest in some cosmetic updates. A coat of paint, some new flooring, more natural lighting, and attractive fixtures can do wonders to make your pharmacy feel clean and modern. 

If you need a pharmacy upgrade, turn to Midwest Medical Systems for help planning and implementing state-of-the-art equipment and systems. From retail drugstores to hospital pharmacies, this Dayton, OH, distributor serves businesses in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and Kentucky. They offer customized solutions that meet industry standards and help manage your pharmacy casework efficiently. Visit them online to learn more about their products, or call (800) 762-7722 to discuss your project needs.