Prescription drug vending machines popping up in Chicago

Prescription drugs in a vending machine? That’s become a reality in Chicago, where two kiosks are loaded with common prescription drugs, allowing patients with a script to pick them up without interacting with a pharmacist. 

The two machines are at Advocate Health facilities, one at Trinity Hospital and the other at Advocate Medical Group’s Imani Village—a clinic. They’re packed with antibiotics, inhalers, blood pressure meds and more, allowing patients to grab them and go, right after their scheduled appointment. 

According to coverage from the Chicago Tribune, doctors can send prescriptions directly to the machine for patients who want to pick them up that way—but those who prefer a human interaction and speaking to a pharmacist can avoid the option outright. 

However, the vending machines themselves double as telehealth devices. With an attached phone and built-in screen, a pharmacist is just a video call away to answer any questions or solve any issues with dispensing drugs. 

Ideally, the machines would already be aware the patient is coming, with their insurance already billed, and users need only to confirm their ID, pay and get their meds. 

Patients report the system solves transportation issues, especially when they’re sick and simply need an antibiotic. More are expected to be unveiled soon at other Advocate locations.

For more, read the full story at the link below.