Assessment of Automation Models in Hospital Pharmacy: Systematic Review of Technologies, Practices, and Clinical Impacts

Medication management in hospitals is a complex process that encompasses every step from prescription to administration, involving multiple healthcare professionals. This process is prone to various errors that can compromise patient safety and generate significant human and financial costs. Automation in hospital pharmacies represents a major advancement, enhancing patient safety, optimizing professional practices, and reducing hospital expenses. This study aims to analyze the different types of automation systems used in hospital pharmacies, assess the impact of automation, and explore its benefits as well as the challenges and limitations associated with its implementation. A literature search was conducted using the ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Scopus databases, covering the period from 1992 to 2024. A total of 129 relevant articles related to the automation of medication preparation and distribution, as well as its challenges and perspectives were included in this study. Automated technologies significantly contribute to reducing medication errors, strengthening traceability, optimizing inventory management, and alleviating the workload of healthcare professionals. However, challenges persist, particularly in terms of costs, integration with existing processes, and staff training. The use of artificial intelligence offers promising prospects for improving the accuracy and operational efficiency of automation systems.