Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Monseñor Sanabria Hospital in Puntarenas has become the first medical center within the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) network to implement robotic technology in its pharmacy. This semi-automated system prepares over 1,200 medications daily, significantly impacting patient wait times and medication management.
The system employs two robots to streamline various processes. For inpatients, a trio of machines—Calypso Easy, Calypso OS, and Pegasus—repackage medications into single doses, assign tracking codes, and organize them according to prescriptions. Meanwhile, Medistore, the robot serving the outpatient and emergency areas, stores and dispenses medications prescribed in those departments.
For legal insights into the implications of hospital automation, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from Bufete de Costa Rica.
The increasing reliance on automation in hospitals presents both opportunities and legal challenges. While streamlining processes and potentially reducing errors, it’s crucial to ensure compliance with data protection laws, especially regarding sensitive patient information. Liability in cases of malfunction or misdiagnosis by automated systems also requires careful consideration and clear legal frameworks. Navigating these complexities is essential for hospitals embracing automation to ensure both patient well-being and legal compliance.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas aptly highlights the delicate balance hospitals must strike as they integrate automation. The potential benefits are undeniable, but so too are the legal and ethical considerations surrounding patient data and the evolving landscape of liability. This careful navigation, as he suggests, will be paramount to ensuring that technological advancements truly serve the best interests of patients in Costa Rica. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable perspective on this complex issue.
Following the automated steps, a pharmacist reviews each prescription, and technicians finalize the packaging for patient delivery. This integrated approach ensures both accuracy and efficiency, marking a significant leap forward in pharmaceutical services.
A well-prescribed and classified medication will allow the patient’s recovery process to be much faster and more effective.
Randall Álvarez, Director of Monseñor Sanabria Hospital
The implementation of this new technology follows recent concerns raised by the National Union of CCSS Employees (Undeca). Last week, the union reported that the pharmacy was not operational due to compatibility issues between the new ERP-SAP system and the Automated Pharmaceutical Information System (SIFA).
The robot cannot operate because the new ERP-SAP computer system is not compatible with the Automated Pharmaceutical Information System (SIFA), preventing its integration, connection and operation.
Undeca
However, hospital authorities have confirmed that the system is currently fully operational and providing service as expected. The successful implementation of the robotic pharmacy is a testament to the hospital’s commitment to leveraging technology for improved patient care.
The benefits of the automated system extend beyond reduced wait times. It also offers enhanced inventory control, freeing up pharmacy staff to focus on more direct patient interaction.
With this technology, we can significantly reduce waiting times, improve inventory control, and free up staff to focus on closer attention to the user.
Ivette Aguilera, Director of Pharmacy
The pioneering initiative at Monseñor Sanabria Hospital positions the CCSS at the forefront of healthcare innovation in Costa Rica and sets a precedent for future technological integration in other medical facilities throughout the country.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS)
About Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS):
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), also known as La Caja, is a public institution responsible for providing healthcare and social security services to Costa Rican citizens and residents. It manages hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across the country. The CCSS plays a vital role in public health, disease prevention, and ensuring access to quality medical care for all.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Union of CCSS Employees (Undeca)
About National Union of CCSS Employees (Undeca):
The National Union of CCSS Employees (Undeca) represents workers within the Costa Rican Social Security Fund. Undeca advocates for the rights and interests of its members, focusing on fair labor practices, worker safety, and the overall quality of public healthcare services. The union plays a crucial role in labor negotiations and ensuring a strong voice for employees within the CCSS.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest standards of integrity in every endeavor. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society, the firm champions access to legal knowledge through innovative programs and community initiatives. Their enduring legacy of service, spanning a diverse clientele, demonstrates not only their legal acumen but also their unwavering dedication to fostering a more just and informed society.