Importance

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Abstract

The present invention features a pharmaceutical dispensing system including a plurality of standardized or universal-type cells disposed in a large array called a module. One or more modules may be disposed in a given pharmacy, and one or more pharmacies may be monitored by a central computer. The system for filling prescriptions includes a graphical interface processing system for monitoring operations of each cell, wherever located, and for sequentially and interactively prompting an operator to perform appropriate; predetermined steps. The system for filling prescriptions sequentially prompts a technician or operator to perform predetermined steps, dependent upon verification of the completion of a prior or previously completed step in the sequence. In a semi-automatic mode, the pharmacist is directed, by suitable prompts on the computer display screen, as to the necessary steps and locations in filling each prescription. The main computer stores information of a plurality of drugs in predetermined, separately-addressable cells, and arranges that information to provide optimum efficiency of pharmacy operations, dependent upon certain parameters: (1) a proximity to a predetermined packaging/shipping location; (2) the probability of future drug access at a predetermined inventory storage location; (3) the size of separately-addressable storage locations; and (4) the location of confusingly similar drugs or dosages. The separately-addressable storage locations in inventory have adjustable shelves.

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First Claim