The benefits provided by an RFID program include rapid drug shortage and recall management, improved medication inventory efficiency, and simplified expiration date tracking. While increasing numbers of health systems are leveraging this technology, certain facilities may be reluctant to implement an RFID program due to a variety of factors such as outdated information, preconceived notions, or a simple lack of awareness of current usage methods.
Some “myths” surrounding RFID include: a perception that RFID tags contain too much data, which slows their ability to function in a fast-paced hospital setting; a disconnect between defining/following standards and their effect on system interoperability; and a belief that a one-size-fits all approach to tag memory capacity is sufficient for use in healthcare. To address these myths and help pharmacy better understand current RFID options, a panel of experts comprising pharmacists, manufacturers, and technology professionals examine select misconceptions. In addition, a hospital pharmacy with deep RFID experience shares a case study demonstrating the value of a reliable RFID system as their program expands beyond kit and tray usage to manage high-cost, temperature-sensitive products.
The Expert Panel
To ensure a comprehensive perspective, the article features insights from a diverse group of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs):
David Aguero, PharmD, MSTL, FAMIA, FASHP
Director of Medication Systems and Informatics at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Ryan Duncan, PharmD
Pharmacy Manager at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Ryan Cello, PharmD, FASHP
Manager of Pharmacy Automation, Informatics, Analytics & Diversion Detection at UC Davis Health
Jeffrey Chalmers, PharmD, FASHP
Chief Product Officer at Marble AI
Mike Isabell
Principal Engineer, RFID and Quality at CCL eAgile
Gwen Volpe, Executive MBA, RPh, DPLA, FASHP, LSSBB
Senior Director of Medication Technology Programs and Strategic Partnerships at Fresenius Kabi USA
Full digital article available at Pharmacy Purchasing & Products.