Effects of an Automated Drug Dispensing System on Medication Adverse Event Occurrences and Cost Containment at SAMSO

Abstract

Purpose To evaluate the impact of an automated drug dispensing system (ADDS) on cost containment and medication adverse event (MAE) occurrences at Saudi Aramco Medical Services Organization (SAMSO). Method An ADDS replaced the traditional unit-dose cassette-exchange and open floor-stock medication systems at SAMSO in early 2005 on five nursing units. Data collection for MAE occurrences and pharmacy medication supply to these units were performed pre- and postimplementation of the ADDS. Results Reported MAEs decreased by approximately 27%. The overall medication issuance decreased by an average of 43%, corresponding to overall medication cost reduction by an average of 42%. Conclusion Implementation of an ADDS improved the efficiency of drug distribution, assisted in cost containment, and decreased the total number of MAEs.