Very soon people in UK will be able to get prescription medicine any time through medical vending devices called 'MedCentre Machines' developed by Canadian firm PharmaTrust. The proposed machines can hold upto 2,000 packs commonly used prescription drugs. The machines identify drugs with the help of microchip attached on the packs. The vending machine also allows patients to discuss with a pharmacist via a video link. The pharmacist is responsible checks the prescription and authorises the transaction and then the patients can pay either by inserting cash into the machine or by debit or credit card.
The proposed MedCentre Machines are on trial and have been put in five hospitals, however, there are concerns among chemists in UK as such an invention could shut down their businesses and force them to layoff staff.
Medical Vending Machines
MedCentre Machines May Put Pharmacies Out of Business in the UK
Trend Themes
1. Medical Vending Machines - The rise of medical vending machines is disrupting traditional pharmacy businesses by providing convenient access to prescription medication at any time.
2. Pharmaceutical Automation - The implementation of automation technology in the pharmaceutical industry, such as microchips and video links, is revolutionizing the prescription medication dispensing process.
3. Telemedicine - The integration of video link technology in medical vending machines allows patients to remotely consult with a pharmacist, enabling faster and more convenient access to medication.
Industry Implications
1. Pharmacy - The pharmacy industry is facing disruption as medical vending machines threaten to replace traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies.
2. Technology - The development and implementation of innovative technologies like microchips and video links has the potential to revolutionize medication dispensing and patient care.
3. Healthcare - The healthcare industry is evolving with the emergence of medical vending machines and telemedicine, providing patients with more accessible and convenient healthcare services.