A Few Tips to Plan for the Coming Year

It’s that time of year again where we’re all setting goals and thinking about what we could do better in the new year. In business, I wouldn’t exactly call them New Years Resolutions, but that new year in front of us can’t help but bring with it some expectations for change.

As you gear up for the coming year, there may be a few things that it will be helpful to have access to.

Reports:  Comprehensive reporting capabilities are a must have for any independent pharmacy.  They help you know where you started, understand where you are now, and allow you to better judge where you need to get to.  No matter what goal you set for your pharmacy, if you don’t know and understand the metrics behind it, you’re not likely to succeed.  Philosopher George Santayana is known for saying that “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”  We can easily apply this to understanding our business metrics.  If you don’t know the numbers behind your business for yesterday, last month, or last year, then you have little to no hope of improving upon those numbers.

Tools:  Any improvement in business is likely going to mean utilizing a new tool. These tools can come in many different forms.  For example, if your goal to reduce re admittance rates, a meds-to-beds program, and point-of-sale equipment to support that program is going to be on your list. If you’re looking to improve patient outcomes, you’ll be looking for something like a nutrient depletion notifications.   If you’re looking to manage your inventory better, you could need software and hardware to help you in that endeavor.   

Advice:  It’s okay if you find yourself at a loss for next steps.  That’s where your vendor partners should come in.  If you know what you’re looking to accomplish, just call them.  They may have a tool that you can use, or know of someone who does.  Following the publications of some pharmacy industry experts is always a good idea as well. 

The last question you have to ask yourself is if you are aligned with partners who can help you in all of these areas.  For some of you, the answer may be no.   The good news is that it’s likely that RMS can help.  Because pharmacy POS is all we do, our solutions are tailored for the needs of independent and institutional pharmacies.  Give us a chance to help you meet your goals.