In-office dispensing is the practice of dispensing medications and other treatments at a physician’s practice. It is more efficient than the traditional pharmacy model. Patients don’t need to wait for their prescription to be filled, drive to the pharmacy, or wait in long lines just to get their medications. Instead, physician dispensing means patients can leave their doctor’s visit with the prescription they need already in hand.
“Doctor shopping” is another term for seeking out multiple physicians and healthcare providers to treat the same condition. Patients doctor shop for various reasons. For some, the goal is to try to obtain multiple prescriptions for the same drug. Some patients seek different doctors until they receive the diagnosis that they believe is correct, or that will result in the desired treatment. This can be dangerous because patients do not have the expertise to self-diagnose or self-prescribe. Engaging in doctor shopping increases the risk that patients will receive unnecessary or inappropriate medication and treatment.
In-office medication dispensing can help prevent the practice of “doctor shopping.” Doctors who dispense medication from their offices adhere to stricter drug laws, keep better track of patients’ prescriptions, and tend to provide a higher quality of care. Here are three ways in office dispensing prevents doctor shopping.
1. Tracking Patients’ Prescription Drugs
In-office drug dispensing allows physicians to flag and report suspicious use of prescription medication or scheduled drugs. With in-office dispensing it is easy for the doctors to track and follow-up on the patient’s recommended treatments because their data is recorded in the in-office dispensing software. Physicians who dispense medication can track patients’ refills, identify whether patients are adhering to the treatment plan, and keep an eye out for the warning signs of substance use.
Physicians may also limit the one-time supply of prescription medication, ensuring patients only receive genuine drugs that are tailored to their specific dosage needs. This is simple since most in-office drug dispensing systems are prepackaged based on how much the patient needs for the treatment. This practice prevents the patient from acquiring more doses than they need. It also helps patients adhere to complex treatment regimens that involve multiple medications or doses throughout the day.
2. Strict Adherence to Applicable Laws
The screening processes required for patient safety is strict for physicians dispensing medication. Physicians dispensing controlled medications need to adhere to certain safety and security standards enforced by agencies like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
An in-office medication dispensing system requires proper registration and maintenance of records of the products and the patients. Physician dispensing laws vary by state. Doctors are generally compelled report suspicious patient behavior related to controlled substance medication to the authorities to maintain their dispensing privileges. The criteria for these behaviors are clearly outlined to provide a consistent standard of care and help doctors feel confident when reporting their concerns.
3. Patients Receive Higher Quality Care
Patients who have higher trust and confidence in their doctors are less likely to switch from one physician to another. In-office medication dispensing is more convenient for the patient, particularly individuals who are older or whose mobility or cognition is impaired. It also allows doctors to give detailed instructions on prescriptions to patients. Physician dispensing improves the doctor-patient relationship, patient adherence to treatment, and all-around quality of care. When patients are satisfied with their doctor and clinic, they are less likely to seek other options.
According to a study conducted by the CDC, between 20 percent to 31 percent of prescriptions are never filled. Often, this is due to cost related factors. Patients may feel more comfortable confiding in the doctor or clinic staff than they are at the pharmacy, which often feels like a public space. Doctors who dispense medication to their patients during office visits can work with patients to address cost issues or other concerns, heading off nonadherence at the source and resting assured that their patients received the drugs prescribed. Dispensing physicians can also take time to explain the treatment plan to the patient, increasing compliance.
How to Set Up In-Office Dispensing
The convenience of point-of-care medication dispensing leads to a more satisfactory experience for patients. Physicians can implement an in-office dispensing method by reaching out to and collaborating with a reliable health services company. Companies that are well-versed in medication dispensing can answer any questions doctors and staff may have and provide all the resources they need to get started. Physicians should also check with their local state board of pharmacy to make sure they are eligible to dispense medications in their state. Doctors dispensing controlled medications will need to follow stricter guidelines.