'Robotx'

Airman 1st Class David Rushforth, 305th Medical Group pharmacy technician, fills prescriptions here with “Robotx”, a robotic medication filing system. Robotx can fill up to 100 prescriptions each hour, allowing the pharmacy staff to spend more time with customers. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Rebekah Phy)

Technology in action at McGuire pharmacy

Published March 17, 2008
By Airman 1st Class Rebekah Phy
305th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. -- Nowadays, technology is everywhere. And McGuire is no exception.

The 305th Medical Group Pharmacy recently welcomed "Robotx", a robotic medication filing system to enhance refill processes.

"Robotx is a really effective program," said Tech. Sgt. Misty Shaffer, NCO in charge of the pharmacy element. "With Robotx, up to 100 prescriptions can be filled each hour."

Since receiving the new program, medication refills require less manpower and more quality time can be spent helping customers take care of their needs.

"Since we started using Robotx, we are better able to utilize our manpower throughout the pharmacy," Sergeant Shaffer said. "Before, refills would take all day, since each one would have to be done by hand. Now, at times, refills can be complete by lunchtime."

Other pharmacy technicians seem to agree.

"Robotx allows us to spend more time with customers," said Airman 1st Class David Rushforth, 305 MDG. "Wait times in line and for prescription refills have decreased."