Impact of Robotic Dispensing Machines in German Pharmacies on Business Performance Indicators

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To assess the impact of robotic dispensing machines in community pharmacies on staff efficiency and sales of over-the-counter drugs. SETTING The study was done on 253 community pharmacies in Germany that use a robotic dispensing machine manufactured by ROWA during 2008. METHOD Data concerning the financial and economic impact of using a robotic dispensing machine in community pharmacies was gathered using a structured questionnaire and analysed in terms of its financial implications. KEY FINDINGS The response rate was 29%. In most pharmacies (79%) the robotic dispensing machine was retrofitted. In 59% of the pharmacies additional space was gained for self-service and behind-the-counter display. As a result of using a robotic dispensing machine, personnel costs were reduced by an average of 4.6% during the first 12 months after start-up. Over-the-counter sales increased in the same period by an average of 6.8%. Despite average initial costs of 118,000 euros, total costs within the first 12 months fell in 50% of cases and at least remained the same in 44%. CONCLUSIONS On average, robotic dispensing machines lead to modest savings in personnel costs and slight increases in sales of over-the-counter drugs. Substantial savings can be achieved only if the staffing level is adapted to the changed personnel requirements.