INNOVATIVE PRACTICE FORM

Name: Howard Biel

Address:  CareStream
          2351 W. NW Highway Suite 1235
          Dallas, Texas 75220

Phone # : 1-800-344-5922

FAX # : 214-350-7961

E-mail/Information service: http:\\www.carestream.com

Briefly describe innovation

CareStream is a comprehensive program that uses an initial three day seminar to train pharmacy personnel in the provision of pharmaceutical care. Day one focuses on the pharmacy personnel as a whole. Day two zeroes in more on the pharmacist and pharmacy technician training, and day three is devoted to the pharmacist. The pharmacy then submits blueprints of the existing pharmacy to CareStream, where they are analyzed. CareStream then redesigns the physical pharmacy to better accommodate patient and work flow. The program itself allows for the technician to perform all non-judgmental tasks, freeing the pharmacist to provide pharmaceutical care. A software package interfaces with the pharmacy's current dispensing systems, and it allows for documentation of pharmacist interventions.

Method of Reimbursement

Payor(s): Currently, community pharmacies are the primary pharmacies taking advantage of the CareStream program.

Reimbursement rate: Variable, depending on package and maintenance purchased

Is documentation required? No

Specialized training required? Yes.
Pharmacists and employees attend the three day seminar, and the pharmacist has the option of attending more extensive training in specialized areas such as diabetes care.

Software/instrumentation required? Yes.
Basic software with three standards of care is included in the CareStream Encounter package with the option to purchase monthly updates, maintenance, and extended care module support.

Interviewed by: Tanya Brown