How to Be Pharmacy Automation Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 24, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The introduction of automation into the pharmacy process has resulted in multiple positive effects. Automation has allowed pharmacies to reduce costs by eliminating manual labor, increase efficiency by streamlining processes, and improve accuracy by reducing human errors. automation specialists can be utilized to ensure that the automation system is properly optimized, maintained, and updated to meet the needs of the pharmacy.

This helps to reduce the workload of pharmacists and technicians, allowing them to focus on patient care. The resulting increase in productivity and improved patient care has been proven to improve patient satisfaction and safety.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. Most employers require at least a bachelor's degree in pharmacy or a related field. You can enhance your job prospects by pursuing a degree in pharmacy automation. Coursework may include medical terminology, pharmacy law, and systems analysis.
Get Certified. In some states, certification is required to become a pharmacy automation specialist. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.
Gain Work Experience. It is beneficial to have experience working in a pharmacy setting. Many employers prefer candidates with at least one year of experience as a pharmacy technician or a related role.
Complete On-the-Job Training. Employers may require you to undergo on-the-job training in pharmacy automation. This could include learning how to use specific software or systems, understanding inventory management, and becoming familiar with company policies and procedures.
Consider Advanced Degrees. If you want to further your career, you may want to consider pursuing an advanced degree in pharmacy or a related field. This could open the door to more opportunities within the field.

The use of pharmacy automation specialists is essential for keeping pharmacies updated and efficient. Automation specialists ensure that pharmacy processes are streamlined, errors are minimized, and that the latest technologies are being used. They also ensure that staff members are properly trained in the use of new technologies and that the pharmacy is following all applicable laws and regulations.

Automation specialists can help reduce costs, improve patient safety, and increase customer satisfaction. Furthermore, they help create a more efficient workflow, allowing pharmacists to focus on providing better patient care. By investing in pharmacy automation specialists, pharmacies can stay up-to-date and provide a higher level of service to their customers.

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Job Description

Design automated systems for pharmacy operations, including data entry, inventory control and order processing.
Troubleshoot problems related to pharmacy automation systems.
Develop software solutions to improve operational efficiency.
Configure pharmacy automation systems according to customer requirements.
Train pharmacy staff in the use of automated systems.
Monitor system performance and ensure that operations remain in compliance with industry standards.
Provide technical support to pharmacy staff and customers.
Research and evaluate new automation technologies.
Assist in the development of policies and procedures related to pharmacy automation systems.
Create documentation on system designs and operations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Expert knowledge of pharmacy software applications and processes.
Experience with patient medication management systems.
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose technical problems.
Understanding of medical terminology and pharmaceutical regulations.
Excellent communication and customer service skills.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams.
Proficiency in using computers, databases, and other related software programs.
Knowledge of federal and state pharmacy laws and regulations.

Being a Pharmacy Automation Specialist requires a range of technical skills, but the most important ability is the capacity to think critically. Critical thinking is essential in order to troubleshoot and solve complex problems related to automated pharmacy systems. This involves understanding the principles of automation, the underlying technology and being able to recognize patterns and identify root causes of issues.

being able to analyze data and draw conclusions based on that data is essential. Furthermore, the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical personnel will help to ensure that the right decisions are made and that the automated systems are functioning properly. Finally, having a good organizational skillset is vital in order to keep track of all aspects of the automated system, from implementation to maintenance and repair.

All of these critical skills are necessary for a Pharmacy Automation Specialist to be successful.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with pharmacy automation systems and software?
How do you troubleshoot and resolve pharmacy automation system issues?
What is your experience with implementing or upgrading pharmacy automation systems?
How do you ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and industry standards?
What strategies do you use to ensure accurate data entry and reporting?
What techniques do you use to monitor and optimize pharmacy automation system performance?
How do you ensure the accuracy of medication labeling and dispensing?
What experience do you have with troubleshooting and repairing pharmacy automation equipment?
How would you prioritize tasks related to pharmacy automation systems?
How do you keep up with new advancements in pharmacy automation technology?

Common Tools in Industry

Medication Dispensing System. A system designed to store, distribute, and track medications. Example: Pyxis MedStation.
Automated Pill Dispenser. A system that automatically dispenses medications with alarms and alerts for missed doses. Example: Omnicell Automated Pill Dispenser.
Electronic Medical Record System (EMR). A system used to store patient medical information in a digital format. Example: Epic Systems EMR.
Barcode Scanner. A device used to scan barcodes on medications in order to identify them. Example: Honeywell Granit 1911i Barcode Scanner.
Automated Packaging System. A system used to package medications into single doses for patients. Example: McKesson Automated Packaging System.
Robotics. A computer-controlled machine used to automate repetitive tasks in a pharmacy, such as filling prescriptions. Example: RxRobots Fulfillment Robot.
Drug Interaction Software. A software system used to check for possible drug interactions before dispensing medication. Example: Lexi-Interact Drug Interaction Software.

Professional Organizations to Know

International Society of Automation in Pharmacy (ISAP)
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)
National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)
Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP)
Health Industry Business Communications Council (HIBCC)
International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE)
American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP)
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP)
American Society for Automation in Pharmacy (ASAP)

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Common Important Terms

Robotic Dispensing System. A robotic dispensing system is a computer-controlled machine used to store and dispense medications in a pharmacy or other medical facility. It typically works by scanning prescription labels and providing access to medications with the push of a button.
Inventory Management. Inventory management is the process of tracking and managing inventory levels in order to maximize efficiency and reduce costs. It includes tracking inventory movement, tracking inventory levels, and ensuring that the right amount of inventory is available at the right time.
Medication Management. Medication management is the process of safely and accurately managing medications, including ordering, storage, and dispensing. It involves keeping track of what medications are being prescribed and used, as well as tracking expiration dates and ensuring that all drug interactions are taken into account.
Automated Dispensing Cabinets. Automated dispensing cabinets are computerized cabinets used to store and dispense medications in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The cabinets are typically connected to a computer system that keeps track of inventory levels, expiration dates, and drug interactions.
Pharmacy Information System. A pharmacy information system is a software system used to manage the workflow of a pharmacy, as well as its inventory, records, and billing. The system typically includes features such as prescription filling, medication management, medication reconciliation, drug utilization review, and patient communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pharmacy Automation Specialist?

A Pharmacy Automation Specialist is a professional responsible for installing, programming, operating, and maintaining complex pharmacy automation systems, such as robotic dispensing machines and automated medication packaging systems.

What qualifications are required to become a Pharmacy Automation Specialist?

To become a Pharmacy Automation Specialist, you typically need an associates degree in a related field such as pharmacy technology or medical technology. Additionally, you may need to obtain certification from an accredited organization such as the National Healthcareer Association.

What duties does a Pharmacy Automation Specialist typically perform?

A Pharmacy Automation Specialist typically performs duties such as installing, programming, and maintaining automated systems; conducting system tests; troubleshooting system issues; and providing technical support to pharmacy staff.

What are some of the benefits of working as a Pharmacy Automation Specialist?

Some of the benefits of working as a Pharmacy Automation Specialist include the potential for career advancement and the satisfaction of contributing to patient safety and improved medication delivery. Additionally, Pharmacy Automation Specialists may earn competitive wages and receive excellent benefits packages.

What is the outlook for Pharmacy Automation Specialists?

The outlook for Pharmacy Automation Specialists is strong, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 10% growth rate in the field from 2019 to 2029. This growth is due in part to the increasing demand for pharmacy automation systems in healthcare settings.