Automation Pharmacy Technician
Accord Health Service, Inc.Position Summary The Automation Pharmacy Technician is responsible for the daily operation, maintenance, and efficiency of the Synergy’s automated medication packaging system (SynMed) within a closed-door long-term care pharmacy. This position plays a critical role in ensuring medications are accurately packaged, processed, and prepared for distribution to long-term care facilities in accordance with established pharmacy procedures, production schedules, and applicable regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, dependable, technically proficient, and capable of working independently while maintaining a strong commitment to accuracy, productivity, and patient safety. Essential Duties and Responsibilities 1. SynMed Automation Operations Operate the SynMed automated medication packaging system to prepare patient-specific medication packages. Perform daily startup, operational checks, and shutdown procedures. Monitor automation production to ensure accurate and timely completion of scheduled medication cycles. Load and replenish medication canisters and other system components in accordance with established procedures. Verify medication identity, strength, NDC, lot number, and expiration date during replenishment and loading activities. Monitor production queues and prioritize workload based on established deadlines and operational needs. Identify and resolve routine equipment errors, packaging discrepancies, and production interruptions. Ensure completed medication packages are properly organized and transferred to the appropriate workflow for pharmacist verification. Maintain consistent production output while adhering to established quality and safety standards. 2. Quality Assurance and Accuracy Follow established procedures to ensure medications are correctly loaded, packaged, and labeled. Perform required quality control checks throughout the automation process. Identify damaged, incomplete, or incorrectly packaged medication doses and initiate appropriate corrective action. Monitor medication packaging integrity and address issues involving sealing, labeling, or equipment performance. Maintain accurate documentation of quality control activities, discrepancies, and corrective actions. Immediately communicate medication errors, equipment malfunctions, or potential patient safety concerns to pharmacy management. Follow all applicable pharmacy regulations, internal policies, and medication handling procedures. Support pharmacist verification processes without performing duties reserved for licensed pharmacists. 3. Inventory Management Monitor medication inventory levels within the SynMed system. Replenish medication canisters accurately and efficiently to minimize production interruptions. Assist with medication inventory organization, rotation, and expiration date monitoring. Identify low-stock medications and communicate replenishment needs to the appropriate personnel. Investigate and report inventory discrepancies involving automated dispensing equipment. Minimize medication waste resulting from improper loading, packaging errors, or equipment malfunctions. Maintain proper medication storage conditions and ensure compliance with applicable inventory control procedures. 4. Equipment Maintenance and Troubleshooting Perform routine cleaning and preventive maintenance of SynMed equipment according to manufacturer recommendations and pharmacy procedures. Troubleshoot common equipment malfunctions and operational interruptions. Identify recurring mechanical or software issues and communicate them to management. Coordinate with technical support or equipment vendors when necessary. Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, equipment problems, and service interventions. Ensure automation workstations and surrounding areas remain clean, organized, and operational. Assist with equipment upgrades, software updates, and implementation of operational improvements as directed. 5. Workflow Management…