Technology and Pharmacy Practice

Technology implementation in the field of pharmacy involves an increase in health care efficiency, an improvement in medication safety, and an enhancement of the scope of professional pharmacy practice, among other aspects. In fact, if properly implemented, some of the technologies available today could lead to considerable forward progress in pharmacy. The involvement of technology and hence automation in pharmacy began in the 1970s. The role of pharmacists in providing patient care has been both eased and complicated by the use of technology. Subsequently, the increased need for efficiency, safety, and accuracy in the use of medications by consumers, health care professionals, manufacturers, and regulatory authorities has led to significant developments in health information technology (HIT).