Pharmacy Technology

SAN DIEGO — As retail distribution for GreatCall's Jitterbug J cell phones expands, the company has placed a stronger emphasis on its health-and-wellness apps for the Jitterbug handsets.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Building up its automated packaging capabilities for high-output pharmacies, Tension International Automation Solutions has acquired the exclusive rights to Maverick Enterprise’s automation technology.


The agreement includes Maverick’s UPM Tote and BottlePacker systems, along with the company’s Single BottlePacker and ErgoPack packaging technologies. TIAS also will take over service and support for Maverick’s existing automation systems.


BENTONVILLE, Ark. — As Walmart’s U.S. stores division looks to execute a broad slate of initiatives in the coming year to recharge domestic growth, it does so under the leadership of a new chief executive and a restructured merchandising organization.


NEW YORK — This ain’t your grandfather’s trade magazine. And assuming you work in today’s retail pharmacy industry, the new Drug Store News is a lot more relevant to your business.


In January 2011, The Drug Store News Group will unveil a bold new look for its flagship publication, with several exciting new features, including:


Store Tour — In every issue, DSN highlights an exciting, new store format;


Changing Channels — New products from alternate retail channels; 


We’re making big changes around here in 2011 — and we’re doing it because you told us to.


Whenever we ask one of our readers what they want from Drug Store News, inevitably, the answer always is: “Tell me something I don’t already know about.”


That’s the problem with most trade magazines today — by the time you get the issue, it’s all old news; often more than a month old by the time it lands on your desk. 


AUSTIN, Texas — An overwhelming majority of respondents to a recent poll want to choose which companies and government agencies can view and use their health information.


PASADENA, Calif. — A new study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that the use of tobacco products among young diabetics is on the rise, and many haven't been counseled by their healthcare providers to not smoke or stop smoking.

Supplier News — Fera Pharmaceuticals has recently launched two new topical ointments. The New York-based company has developed Ilotycin (erythromycin) and Garamycin (gentamicin) ophthalmic ointments, both for the treatment of bacterial infections of the eye. “Our goal is simple: to keep more quality healthcare choices alive for the people who need them,” company co-founder Frank DellaFera said.