At the most basic level, pharmacists can use the computer to screen for missing or improper dosage information. Or, they can call up information about a drug's side effects. Pharmacists also can use computers to keep track of patients' refill schedules. Another idea FDA is exploring with pharmacy groups is the use of centralized data bases that will contain patients' drug and medical histories and allow authorized users, such as pharmacies, to share records. For now, though, patients should let their pharmacists know if they get a new medication at another pharmacy, or if their medical conditions change, so the pharmacist can record the new information in the patient profile.
Pharmacists can provide other services to their patients with the use of computers.
Many pharmacists now can enter insurance claims in the computer and send them directly to claims processors for reimbursement. Since Sept. 1, pharmacists have been required to complete claim forms for Medicare-eligible patients. Many pharmacists already have the computer software to help them with this process. Home Health Care Orrin Skolnick started out small in the durable medical equipment business in 1971, supplying items like wheelchairs and commodes out of his Sandy Springs Medical Center Pharmacy in Atlanta. The pharmacy then began offering traction equipment and supplies for patients who have undergone colostomy operations.