INNOVATIVE PRACTICE FORM

Name: Jerry Pace
Address : Pace Pharmacy, 100 Court Street, Newton, TX 75966
Phone # 409-379-5301
FAX # n/a
E-mail/Information service: n/a

Briefly describe innovation

Carestream-Encounter software incorporation. Pace Pharmacy is a thirty-three year old independent pharmacy with typical pharmacy and front end stock, as well as new stand alone patient information centers. The Caresteam-Encounter software program has been in effect since 1994. The software is a cognitive services program which allows for delegation of tasks by the pharmacists to two technicians. An end-tech technician, dispensing technician, and a pharmacist work together in facilitating the Carestream process. The end-tech technician gathers patient information, makes sure the information is correct, and charts patient histories such as drug allergies and concurrent drug use. The dispensing technician fills the prescription; keying, counting, and labeling, as well as contacting physicians about patient information or medication refills. This system allows more time for the pharmacist to check the technicians' procedures, the software for further drug interactions, and most importantly, for counseling of the patient.

Along with pharmacy software, Pace Pharmacy also underwent remodeling in order to create a more efficient practice. The key goal was to make sure that the pharmacist was available for every patient on every prescription. Counter designs, blood pressure machines, and asthma modules are part of the pharmacy practice. The twenty-five feet counter was shaped long with a private area near the end for counseling. Two counseling areas were made available; a sitting area for all new prescriptions, and a standing area for refills. This layout allows for the two technicians and the pharmacist to work together unhindered, while providing eye-contact with the patients as well as each other.

As of current, stand alone blood pressure machines are located within the counseling areas to help chart the patient's process with each session. Asthma modules, along with peak flow meter sessions are available, and plans to locate glucose monitoring centers are in development.

Method of Reimbursement

Payor(s): n/a
Reimbursement rate: n/a

Is documentation required? n/a

Specialized training required? Yes, in store training completed in order to use current equipment.

Software/instrumentation required? Yes, Caresteam- Encounter is used.

Interviewed by: Lori Payne