A visit to a local community pharmacy was scheduled to gain insight into pharmacy operations. Prof. Kirti Deshpande organized a visit for second-year D. Pharm students on October 8th at 11 a.m., to Payal Medifast Medical, located in the Kondhawa area of Pune. The purpose of the visit was to understand various aspects of pharmaceutical management, including software usage, inventory methods, medication storage patterns, and the handling of narcotic medicines.
The pharmacist welcomed the students and provided a detailed overview of the software system used for managing inventory and prescriptions. The pharmacy utilizes a specialized software program that helps track stock levels; prescription histories etc. the software helps in automation of reordering processes. This system ensures that medications are available when needed and prevents stock-outs or overstocking.
Regarding inventory management, the pharmacist explained the method of stock rotation, emphasizing the importance of the 'first in, first out' (FIFO) principle. This approach helps in minimizing wastage due to the expiration of drugs. Medications were systematically organized according to their type, with prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and other health products stored separately to maintain accessibility and efficiency.
Special attention was given to the storage of narcotic medicines. The pharmacist explained that these controlled substances are stored in a secure, locked cabinet, in compliance with legal requirements. Detailed records are maintained for every narcotic medicine dispensed, ensuring strict regulation and accountability.
The visit concluded with an interactive discussion, where the pharmacist encouraged the students to ask questions. This opportunity allowed the students to deepen their understanding of the responsibilities involved in pharmacy practice, and the pharmacist provided practical insights into day-to-day operations.
Overall, the visit was an informative and valuable learning experience for the students, enhancing their understanding of community pharmacy management.
