Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust has taken a significant step forward in improving patient care and safety with the installation of a brand-new pharmacy robot. This cutting-edge technology, the BD 210 Rowa, marks a new chapter for the Pharmacy department, which has utilised robotic systems for over 20 years.
See the new robot in action
To see how the new pharmacy robot works and how it is revolutionising medicine dispensing at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, watch our short video demonstration. The video showcases the robot in action within the pharmacy department, providing an insight into its role in supporting patient care.
How the pharmacy robot works
The process begins with pharmacy staff processing the order and dispensing a label for the required medicine. The robot then selects the correct pack from its shelves, verifies the barcode to ensure accuracy, and transports the medicine via a conveyor belt to one of seven dispensing stations. This streamlined process ensures that medicines are dispensed quickly and accurately.
Recently, members of the Gateshead Health Executive Team visited the Pharmacy department to see the new robot in action. During their visit, they observed the advanced technology at work and gained a deeper understanding of how the system supports faster, safer, and more efficient medicine dispensing. The team expressed their enthusiasm for the robot’s potential to transform patient care and highlighted the importance of continued investment in innovative solutions.
Key benefits of the pharmacy robot
The new robot provides a host of benefits that directly enhance patient care and safety:
- Speed: The robot’s efficiency supports the rapid supply of critical medicines and discharge prescriptions. This ensures that patients receive the treatment they need without delay and that they are not waiting longer than necessary when it is time to go home.
- Safety: Automated processes significantly reduce the risk of medication errors, offering greater confidence in the dispensing system and improving overall patient safety.
- Stock Ordering: By automating routine stock orders, the robot links directly to digital drug cabinets on hospital wards. This integration frees up valuable time for clinical staff, enabling them to focus more on patient care.
- Storage: With efficient storage solutions and automated stock rotation, the robot minimises waste and reduces the risk of expired medicines.
Mark Thomas, Chief Pharmacist with Gateshead Health, said:
The robot offers greater dispensing speed, accuracy and efficiency. This supports the pharmacy team to deliver outstanding services and releases time for ward teams and clinical pharmacy staff to care for patients.
Supporting outstanding patient care
The introduction of the new robot aligns with Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust’s commitment to delivering exceptional patient care. By automating routine tasks, the robot allows pharmacy and clinical staff to dedicate more time to patient-facing activities.
Additionally, the system’s advanced stock management capabilities reduce waste and ensure a consistent supply of essential medicines.
The Pharmacy department’s new robot represents a significant investment in innovation and a forward-thinking approach to healthcare. It underlines the Trust’s dedication to improving patient outcomes and experiences, ensuring that care is delivered efficiently and safely.