A continuous sampling approach to pharmacy operation efficiency study. (22nd February 2006)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lin, Alex C.; Huang, Samuel H.
• Is Part Of: International journal of industrial and systems engineering. Volume 1:Number 1/2(2006)
• Page Start: 263
• Page End: 283
• Publication Date: 2006-02-22
• Subjects: pharmacy operations -- performance efficiency -- time study -- fixed-interval sampling -- continuous sampling -- video recording -- performance measurement -- productivity analysis; Systems engineering -- Periodicals; Industrial engineering -- Periodicals; 620.001171
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1748-5037

Abstract

The service sector now makes up more than 70% of the US economy, yet its productivity growth is anaemic compared to that of manufacturing. This created a sense of urgency for efficiency improvement, especially in pharmacy operations due to a severe shortage of pharmacists. In pharmacy operations, it very difficult to apply the traditional time study approach in measuring efficiency. This paper uses a continuous sampling approach based on video recording technology to comprehensively measure pharmacy operation efficiency. The study was conducted at eight sites of a major community pharmacy. The results were analysed and opportunities for improvement were identified.