Technology

Technology Update

Technology Update column for the Jan. 6, 2003 issue.

In a move to slow down cross-border Rx traffic, Canada has adopted the VIPPS program developed by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy as a seal of approval for Internet pharmacies.

SURF AND TURF WARS

Pharmacists are increasingly concerned about the growth of rogue Internet pharmacies, especially those from Canada.

Electronic signature pads let phamacies eliminate paper-based patient sign-in logs and simplify document storage.

Bar coding is making rapid headway hospitals as the FDA looks to mandate bar codes on drugs and some buying groups will purchase only bar-coded products.

Biometric devices that rely on fingerprints, irises, and other areas, are increasingly mandated by the feds and state governments to ensure patient security

GETTING CONNECTED

Pharmacy gears up for electronic prescribing, paperless labeling, and other on-line pilot projects

GETTING CONNECTED

Pharmacy gears up for electronic prescribing, paperless labeling, and other on-line pilot projects

InstyMeds has placed an Rx drug vending machine in a Minneapolis physician's office as a pilot study of the aumotated technology.