Dispensing via a queue token

Overview

At a busy pharmacy, patients may check in via a queue token. When a patient's token is called, you can scan or select their token at the pharmacy window to automatically load their prescription and begin dispensing quickly. This streamlines the process and reduces wait times.

Before you start

• The patient has already checked in and received a queue token (either by scanning a barcode or via phone number)
• The prescription is already in the system linked to the patient
• Your pharmacy is set up with queue integration
• You have the ability to scan barcodes (if using QR/barcode tokens) or manually enter the patient's details

Steps

1. Open the Pharmacy Dispensing screen

   Navigate to the pharmacy dispensing or queue window interface. Open Pharmacy

2. Scan or select the queue token

   • If using a barcode/QR token: Position the barcode scanner ready at the pharmacy window and scan the patient's token.
   • If entering manually: Type the patient's phone number, ID, or token number into the search field and press Enter.

3. Confirm the patient and prescription

   The system displays the patient's name, the prescription, and any medicines to be dispensed. Verify that you have the correct patient and the correct prescription.

4. Verify medicines and quantities

   Review each medicine, strength, and quantity as shown. Ensure all items are in stock and match the doctor's prescription. If any medicine is out of stock, note it before proceeding.

5. Dispense medicines

   Pick and dispense each medicine from the shelf. As you dispense, check them off in the system (if required by your pharmacy workflow) to confirm each item has been given.

6. Record payment

   • If the patient pays at this moment, enter the payment method (cash, card, or balance).
   • If payment was already collected, mark it as paid.
   • The system may offer quick-pay options for speed.

7. Complete the transaction

   Click Complete or Finish to close out the dispensing for this token. The prescription is marked complete, inventory is updated, and the patient receipt is generated.

8. Hand receipt to patient

   Provide the patient with a printed or digital receipt showing what was dispensed and any charges.

Accounting impact

When dispensing via a queue token:

• Inventory decreases for each medicine dispensed to the patient.
• Sales revenue is recorded in the pharmacy sales account.
• Cost of goods sold (COGS) is deducted based on the medicines' cost.
• Payment is recorded immediately as cash, card, or balance reduction, depending on the payment method selected.

Tips & common mistakes

• Call the patient clearly. Many pharmacies announce the token number before or when the patient approaches the window to avoid mix-ups.
• Scan accurately. If using barcode tokens, ensure the scanner reads the entire barcode before proceeding; a partial scan may cause errors.
• Keep stock visible. Arrange your pharmacy shelf so you can quickly locate each medicine without searching, reducing the time the patient waits.
• Confirm identity if requested. Some pharmacies ask the patient to provide their name or date of birth before dispensing, especially for controlled substances.
• Don't process if the patient is absent. If a token is called and the patient doesn't respond, skip to the next token and come back later. Do not hold medications unnecessarily.

---