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Exploring the Parallels Between a Hospital Pharmacy and a Distribution Center

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Book cover Systems Analysis Tools for Better Health Care Delivery

Part of the book series: Springer Optimization and Its Applications ((SOIA,volume 74))

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Abstract

We study the pharmaceutical supply chain from a pharmaceutical distributor to a patient. In doing so, we make comparisons between a traditional distribution center and a hospital pharmacy and discuss the technologies used in both facilities, with special emphasis on the order-fulfillment process. We review analytical models for order-fulfillment technologies prevalent in pharmaceutical distribution, including models for A-Frame systems, carousel systems, picking machines, unit-dose repackaging technologies, and automated dispensing cabinets. Finally, we provide conclusions and future research directions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA

    Jennifer A. Pazour & Russell D. Meller

Authors
  1. Jennifer A. Pazour
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  2. Russell D. Meller
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Jennifer A. Pazour .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. , Department of Industrial & Systems Engin, University of Florida, Weil Hall 401, Gainesville, 32611, Florida, USA

    Panos M. Pardalos

  2. Center for Applied Optimization, Dept. Industrial & Systems, University of Florida, Weil Hall 303, Gainesville, 32611-6595, Florida, USA

    Pando G. Georgiev

  3. , Ministry of Education and Sciences, National Agency for Exams, Rruga Naim Frasheri, Nr. 37, Tirana, 32611, Albania

    Petraq Papajorgji

  4. James A. Haley VA Medical Center, Bruce B. Downs Blvd. 13000, Tampa, 33612, Florida, USA

    Britta Neugaard

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Pazour, J.A., Meller, R.D. (2013). Exploring the Parallels Between a Hospital Pharmacy and a Distribution Center. In: Pardalos, P., Georgiev, P., Papajorgji, P., Neugaard, B. (eds) Systems Analysis Tools for Better Health Care Delivery. Springer Optimization and Its Applications, vol 74. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-5094-8_7

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