A simulation approach to understand the viability of rfid technology in reducing medication dispensing errors

Abstract

RFID technology has the potential to reduce medication dispensing errors in hospitals. To determine possible uses for tracking medication within a hospital, we interviewed a pharmacist with knowledge of such processes. Due to cost considerations, the most viable place to use RFID technology is to track medication upon leaving the pharmacy, which can help reduce lost or misplaced medication and ensure that the right medication is given to the right patient. A simulation model that compares the benefits with and without RFID is also discussed. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.