IT Support for the Pharmacy Industry
A pharmacy combines two industries: retail and health. A busy pharmacy dispenses prescription-only medicines, sells over-the-counter medicines, health supplements, toiletries, and other products, and offers preliminary medical consultations.
While the retail element is no different from a high-street shop, dispensing prescriptions and medication requires stringent internet security and absolute GDPR compliance.
Some of the IT challenges for a pharmacy are:
Online EPOS solutions
Computer security + NHS cards
Importance of printers
Internet connectivity with failover
Increased data protection
Mobile device security
Hardware Provision
Most pharmacies are now using a dedicated EPOS system designed for the industry. Not only does the system allow for normal “till” functionality, but stock levels can also be monitored, and order links to suppliers can be integrated along with many other valuable features.
Additionally, if a company has multiple sites, price updates, supply ordering, and end-of-day sales can all be centralised via an online portal.
QLine IT has worked with several EPOS systems, and we can provide hardware and networking support for your business.
Computer security, including NHS smartcards
Due to the essential and highly confidential data of prescriptions, security and data access control are critical within a pharmacy. Computer access must be limited and monitored, and NHS smartcards, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), and static IP allocation must be used and implemented.
Due to our extensive work in the children’s home sector, QLine IT is very experienced with the need for data security.
We can provide hardware solutions such as smartcard readers and software and procedural solutions, ensuring patient data is protected to the highest level.
Importance of Printers
Who would have thought the simple printer would be so essential? However, in a pharmacy environment, they have never been more critical. Label printers are needed for medicines, and A4 printers are required for tokens (prescriptions).
If either printer stops working, the pharmacy cannot dispense. These simple issues can be contrary to the pharmacy’s licence. Having spare printer redundancy is critical. Here at QLine IT, we treat every “printer not working” call as a high priority.
Internet Connectivity with Failover
Another primary concern for a pharmacy is reliable internet. As all prescription services are now browser-based, when internet connectivity fails, access to the NHS spine also fails. Consequently, the pharmacy is not able to dispense.
To ensure a continuous internet connection, QLine partners with Teltonika, providing fibre and 4G connectivity on failover. Should the main fibre line develop a fault, the 4G sim will take over within seconds, providing a seamless failover. Add a VPN for static IP (required for security), and we have the perfect solution.
Increased Data Protection
In addition to GDPR and standard data protection legislation, the NHS has stringent guidelines on handling, storing, and accessing data.
A pharmacy must ensure who can access data and implement safeguards to prevent unauthorised access. For example, security measures must be implemented in the event of a computer theft or site break-in.
QLine IT can implement various solutions, from encryption to 2FA computer access. We also ensure the network, router, and Wi-Fi accessibility are strictly controlled and monitored in real time.
Mobile device security (MDM)
A typical pharmacy handles large quantities of medication on-site and when it is delivered directly to patients by a courier or driver. Mobile phones, inventory applications, and scanners read prescription barcodes and track the movement of medicines. Ensuring mobile devices are secure is essential.
Using specialist MDM (Mobile Device Management) solutions, QLine IT can restrict access to these devices. This will prevent staff from adding their email accounts, limit the installation of applications, prevent data exports and provide real-time location data. Additionally, MDM assists with GDPR compliance
IT Solutions
With our experience working with several pharmacy groups, QLine IT can provide your business with unique advice and IT support.
