THE USE OF TECHNOLOGIES TO OPTIMIZE MEDICINE DISPENSING IN HOSPITALS

Abstract

The dispensing of medications in hospital settings is a critical process that directly impacts patient safety, clinical efficiency, and resource management. The increasing complexity of healthcare systems, combined with the high healthcare burden, requires innovative solutions that ensure traceability, accuracy, and agility. In this context, the adoption of digital and automated technologies has been consolidating as a central strategy to optimize pharmaceutical logistics. This article aims to analyze the role of technologies applied to medication dispensing in hospitals, addressing tools such as electronic prescriptions, barcode reading systems, automated cabinets, and RFID, as well as integration with electronic medical records and clinical decision support systems. It also discusses the role of hospital pharmacists in the digital transformation scenario, their strategic attributions, and the impact of these innovations on patient safety and healthcare indicators. The review is based on updated scientific sources, national regulations, and practical evidence, promoting a critical and proactive look at the challenges and perspectives of hospital pharmaceutical management in the information age.