Oak Valley Health opens outpatient pharmacy
Oak Valley Health’s newly-opened Outpatient Pharmacy in the main lobby of Markham Stouffville Hospital is a full-service pharmacy outfitted with an advanced automated dispensing robot.
‘Spenser’ uses barcode technology to ensure accuracy and eliminate cross-contamination risks and is capable of filling and labelling up to 150 prescriptions per hour. For patients, that means shorter wait times, fewer errors and overall enhanced experience, according to Oak Valley Health.
“The opening of the Oak Valley Health Outpatient Pharmacy represents our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional, patient-centred care through growth and innovation,” says Shellyna Moledina, Patient Care Director, Pharmacy. “With services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our community, we’re making it easier for patients to access their medications and other health-care essentials in one convenient location.”
The pharmacy offers a comprehensive range of services, including prescription filling, transfers and medication therapy extensions for chronic conditions; personalized medication reviews and annual MedsCheck assessments for eligible patients; and specialty care in oncology and mental health, with seamless coordination with health-care teams.
It also offers drug reimbursement support for drug coverage; coordination of special access and compassionate drug programs; blister packaging for improved medication adherence; minor ailments assessment and prescribing; and immunizations for preventable illnesses such as shingles and pneumococcal infections (charges may apply).
“This pharmacy is more than just a place to fill prescriptions,” says Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Elena Pacheco. “It is a testament to our vision of integrated health care, where innovation and collaboration come together to enhance the well-being of our patients, families and staff.”
The Oak Valley Health Outpatient Pharmacy is staffed by a team of pharmacists, technicians and drug access navigators, including a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE). The pharmacy is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed on weekends and statutory holidays. All proceeds from the pharmacy support hospital programs and services.
Phase one of the Outpatient Pharmacy opened early last year and initially served Oak Valley Health oncology and mental health patients. The plan was always to open as a full-service pharmacy serving patients, visitors, staff and community members as part of phase two. For more information, visit oakvalleyhealth.ca or drop by the pharmacy.
Photo: The Outpatient Pharmacy at Markham Stouffville Hospital. (Photo courtesy of Oak Valley Health)