Pharmacy Technology

A few weeks ago, we joined some 37,000 of our closest friends for the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) annual conference. HIMSS is a cause-based, not-for-profit organization focused on providing global leadership for the optimal use of information technology and management systems for the betterment of health care.

Move over dump bins, endcap displays and newspaper circulars and make room for the new high-tech kid on the retail block — digitization.
Smartphones and the concept of digital coupons may not be so new, but what is relatively new to the mass market and becoming increasingly pervasive throughout the industry is the use of mobile technologies and social networking platforms — by both retailers and manufacturers — to customize offers for today’s shopper.

NEW YORK — Rite Aid has become the latest chain to join the retail smartphone application game.

The Camp Hill, Pa.-based retail pharmacy chain recently launched an app for smartphones that allows users to refill prescriptions by scanning their barcodes or entering the prescription number, transfer prescriptions, manage their Wellness+ loyalty card accounts, view weekly circulars and compile shopping lists, among other features.

The app is available for major smartphone brands including the Apple iPhone and Android phones.

NEW YORK — The healthcare sector is thought to hold the most promise for mobile technology growth and development, according to a new survey by Deloitte.

JERSEY CITY, N.J. — Single Touch Systems has picked a company that distributes prescription discount cards to sponsor the messages it delivers to pharmacy customers.

Single Touch announced the selection of ScriptRelief to sponsor its prescription pickup and appointment reminders sent to patients' mobile devices. ScriptRelief provides the RxRelief pharmacy discount card program, which offers discounts on more than 50,000 prescription drugs.

WESTLAKE, Texas — Healthcare supply chain software developer Supplylogix has appointed a former Safeway executive as its director of product development.

Supplylogix announced the hiring of Glen Davis, saying he would help expand the company's suite of products that pharmacies and other healthcare providers use to improve supply chain performance.

DEERFIELD, Ill. — Immunization records will be sent directly from Walgreens and Duane Reade stores to primary care providers over Surescripts' electronic prescribing network, Walgreens said Monday.

From 2000 to 2010, the U.S. Hispanic population surged 43%, far surpassing U.S. Census estimates.  With a growth rate more than four times that of the entire country, and an expected 2015 purchasing power well in excess of $1.25 trillion, the U.S. Hispanic population is a key market segment for retailers and consumer packaged goods companies seeking to expand their domestic customer base. The most successful companies will be those that can effectively engage these consumers and develop enduring brand loyalty.