Medical Equipment Upgrades to Improve Health-care Safety, Efficiency
New drug dispensing cabinets will bring medication closer to patients, providing a safer and more efficient health-care system.
The province announced today, July 9, it will contribute more than $2.4 million toward new computerized drug storage systems for South Shore Health and South West Health.
"Hospitals are fast-paced environments, where time and accuracy are important for patients and staff," said Health and Wellness ministerial assistant Gary Ramey, on behalf of Health and Wellness Minister David Wilson. "Computerized drug storage and dispensing units bring medication closer to the patient in an efficient, safe and secure manner, freeing up more staff time to care for Nova Scotians."
The cabinets improve patient safety by reducing medication errors, improving timeliness of dose delivery, reducing risk associated with high-alert medication and improving security for controlled substances, including narcotics. The units also reduce waste by tracking and controlling inventory.
"The drug cabinets feature sophisticated technology that enhance patient safety," said Michelle Tipert, health services manager for South Shore Health. "They are also convenient, easy to use, and give staff quick and secure access to the drugs they need to deliver safe patient care."
The total cost of the upgrade for South Shore Health is about $1.7 million, while phase II in the South West Health District will cost about $1.6 million. The province will pay for 75 per cent, with the district health authorities responsible for the rest.
"Our funding partners recognize the value of investing in new technology that can improve patient care and safety, while making the system more effective and efficient. We are truly grateful for their generous support," said South Shore Health's president and CEO Dr. Peter Vaughan, acknowledging the Health Services Foundation of the South Shore, the Queens General Hospital Foundation, the South Shore Regional Hospital Auxiliary, and the Yarmouth Regional Hospital Foundation.
Drug dispensing units are expected to be in place across South Shore Health and South West Health by fall.