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Navigating Challenges in Hospital Pharmacy Operations

Bluesight recently released its 11th Annual Hospital Pharmacy Operations Report (HPOR), showcasing a significant uptick in technology adoption within hospitals. The report incorporates insights from 258 hospital pharmacy professionals and identifies the key challenges these facilities are currently facing, alongside emerging technological strategies for solutions.

Increasing Focus on Procurement Challenges

This year's findings indicate a stark increase in the urgency hospitals place on streamlining their pharmacy purchasing processes. An impressive 95% of survey respondents recognized this as a critical priority, up from 72% in the previous year. The report emphasizes that many hospitals are currently navigating a challenging supply chain compounded by regulatory demands, creating an optimum environment for innovative solutions.

Heightened Regulatory Oversight Anticipated

Particularly noteworthy is the expectation among 76% of respondents that increased regulatory oversight under the 340B program will take effect within the next few years. Many pharmacies are not adequately prepared for the upcoming audits, with half of hospital systems only auditing claims on a monthly basis, exposing them to potential pitfalls in compliance.

This shift in regulatory scrutiny signifies a demand for better auditing solutions, further emphasizing the need for technology to streamline these processes.

Addressing Drug Diversion Issues

Another pressing concern highlighted in the survey is drug diversion, with 66% of participants reporting experiences of diversion over the past year. Alarmingly, diversion monitoring software accounted for identifying 42% of diversion events, showcasing the valuable role of technology in maintaining drug integrity.

As hospitals amplify their efforts against drug diversion, investing in advanced software solutions is crucial to mitigating these occurrences and enhancing overall operational safety.

Technological Investment on the Rise

The report reveals that hospitals are directing their investment strategies towards three main areas for technological advancements in 2025: smart pumps, IV prep tracking and clean room automation, and automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs). The integration of smart pumps has emerged as a key initiative, replacing previous contenders like controlled substance monitoring. These technologies not only enhance efficiency but also actively contribute to reducing potential risks.

Visibility and Inventory Management

As hospital pharmacies expand their services to remote locations, achieving better visibility into pharmacy operations has never been more vital. Alarmingly, 41% of respondents indicated that they lack visibility into oncology inventory across these locations. Moreover, only 38% have allocated capital expenditures aimed at improving this visibility, demonstrating a gap that must be addressed to ensure safe and effective patient care.

The Path Forward

Kevin MacDonald, CEO and co-founder of Bluesight, articulates the challenges ahead: “Hospitals are navigating a wide variety of challenges surrounding an unpredictable supply chain and regulatory issues. What the report highlights is a compelling opportunity for innovation in addressing these issues.”

He further emphasizes that both 340B adherence and drug shortage management are critical areas where technological advancements can drive operational efficiency and long-term stability.

In summary, the 11th Annual Hospital Pharmacy Operations Report offers valuable insights into the operations and evolving needs of hospital pharmacies. It underscores the burgeoning trend toward adopting advanced technologies and highlights essential areas requiring immediate focus to improve compliance, procurement, and patient outcomes. As hospitals seek to navigate turbulent waters, technology adoption serves as a beacon of hope for streamlined operations and enhanced patient care.