Gompels has launched an innovative new state-of-the-art system for residents to collect their prescriptions at its pharmacy at Spa Medical Centre.
The new system, the first of its kind in the country, aims to reduce waiting times and improve the efficiency of the pharmacy.
Patients with a smartphone are sent a text message with a QR code when their prescription is ready to collect. On arrival, they scan the QR code at a screen in the waiting room, notifying the pharmacist to bring out the prescription.
“Thirty-five per cent of our patients are already using this new system. It’s straightforward, simple, and is reducing waiting times, queues and stress for both pharmacists and patients. It’s working really well,” explained pharmacist Marilyn Stapleton.
Patients who do not have a smartphone are still encouraged to go to the counter as usual once they are informed that their prescriptions are ready. “We still believe in the personal touch. We are not robots, and it is amazing how many of the older generation do use mobile phones,” she added.
The new system has been developed by managing director Paddy Gompels who hopes it will be taken up by other pharmacies.
“There’s a lot in the news about how pharmacy is struggling. We don’t want our patients to go to internet pharmacies – we want them to support their local business. We need to keep finding ways of improving the customer experience,” said Marilyn.
“It’s a busy pharmacy – being attached to a GP surgery means the waiting room and queues can be quite long. The new system is about customer experience – how we can make it more efficient and convenient for the patient.
“Gompels’ motto is about making life easier – and this is making life easier for both patients and staff.”
Gompels is an award-winning pharmacy and won the UK Pharmacy of the Year award in 2023 for its unwavering commitment to patient care and innovative approach to pharmacy services.
Pictured: Marilyn Stapleton and Eleanor Holder with the new screen
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