Benefits of Dynamic QR Codes For Pharmacies
Jonathan Palley
May 6, 2023
QR (Quick Response) codes have become increasingly popular across various industries, including the pharmacy business, especially during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. The use of dynamic QR codes opened opportunities for innovative and seamless transactions between consumers and businesses without physical contact.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of implementing dynamic QR codes on pharmaceutical business and the various ways they can be used.
Benefits of Using Dynamic QR Codes in Pharmacy Business
A Quick Response code or QR code is a matrix barcode used to store information from a website, document or even a phone number. It is a helpful tool that can help pharmacies track inventory, and provide medicinal instructions and contact information.
If you are not yet convinced, listed below are the following reasons to use dynamic QR codes in your pharmacy business:
Inventory tracking and medicines restocking
One of the known benefits of dynamic QR codes to pharmaceutical companies is that they can be used for efficient inventory management. This technology allows easy tracking of the movements of products from warehouse to pharmacy shelves.
By attaching dynamic QR codes to the products, pharmacy staff can simply scan them using their dedicated scanners to quickly update their databases with ease. It can also be used to monitor which products are running low and need to be restocked preventing stockouts, over products and expired products.
Simply put, utilizing dynamic QR codes streamlines the business operation to keep each and every pharmacy staff on the same page.
Easy Access to Product Information for Customers
QR codes can now be placed on prescription bottles, drug packs and packaging to link the patient to a PDF file with prescription, dosage and side effects information about the product. It is a quick and easy way to relay to patients the mandatory information they need before taking the medicine.
This also prevents patients from getting inaccurate and unreliable information when they search on the web. Thus, allowing them to make informed decisions about their personal healthcare and ensure the authenticity of the drug.
Directs Patients to the Correct Pharmacy location to Pick Up their Prescriptions
Most consumers are not familiar with a drug or medicine prescribed to them by their doctors. As a result, many brands and pharmacy businesses also use unique dynamic QR codes to point patients to the correct location for picking up their prescriptions.
Patients can simply scan the dynamic QR code from the pharmacy and they will be instantly directed to the drug aisle and shelf where they can find their prescriptions.
Remind Patients to take their Medications on Time
In today’s fast-paced environment, it is pretty common that we overlook our physical health. Scanning dynamic QR codes can allow them to set up alarms on their phones to remind them to take their medication. This is an excellent way for a pharmaceutical company to ensure that patients are in their best shape.
Contactless Transactions During Pandemic
We all know that the pandemic made a drastic impact on the way the pharmacy business operates. And although Covid-19 restriction has been eased, taking utmost value to our health is still important.
Aside from being a valuable data collection tool, creating and using dynamic QR codes provides a contactless way to accomplish transactions, reducing the risk of transmission between medicine suppliers and pharmacy staff and customers.
This promotes a safe and convenient mode of payment for customers as it does not require them to use cash or cards.
How do pharmacies use Dynamic QR codes?
Many pharmacies are already innovating with dynamic QR codes in different ways:
- Prescription Refills: Patients can scan a QR code using their smartphone cameras, enter their prescription information via a secure, mobile-friendly webpage, and have their prescription refilled for easy pickup.
- Product Education: Dynamic QR codes on shelves or packaging can provide immediate access to product details, dosage instructions, or safety guidelines.
- Brand Awareness: Some pharmacies use QR codes to share information about their business, services, promotions, and health resources.
- Virtual Consultations: Dynamic QR codes can connect customers to online consultation services, where they can speak to a licensed pharmacist remotely.
How to Implement Dynamic QR Codes in Pharmacy Business
Now that you know how pharmacies leverage QR codes, let’s get into the implementation of QR codes.
Creating a QR code does not require any technical or professional skills. As previously mentioned, you can use various tools online to get started.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating and implementing QR codes for your pharmacy business:
Step 1: Define Your QR Code’s Purpose
Decide what you want your QR code to do. Are you directing customers to a product page, enabling online prescription refills, offering virtual consultations, or supporting contactless payments? Clear objectives are essential.
Step 2: Create Your Dynamic QR Code
Use a trusted online QR code generator like QR Codes Unlimited. Choose the "URL" and customize it. This allows you to create personalized QR codes with your logo and colors, making your pharmacy's branding more professional.
Step 3: Download and Test the QR Code
Before going live, download your QR code and rigorously test it across various smartphones and tablets. Confirm that the code works correctly and leads customers to the intended resource.
Step 4: Deploy Strategically Across Your Pharmacy
Place your QR codes where they will be most helpful on product labels, posters, prescription bags, counters, and payment areas. Regularly test and update them to ensure functionality over time.
Examples of Dynamic QR Codes in Pharmacy Business You Should Know!
As we have mentioned in the previous section, one of the reasons dynamic QR codes are beneficial is their varying uses for the pharmacy business.
Here are some examples of dynamic QR codes to keep in mind:
- Link to Product Information: Create QR codes that provide detailed medication information to educate customers.
- Prescription Refill Portal: Allow customers to refill prescriptions remotely without physically visiting the pharmacy.
- Virtual Consultation Access: Enable customers to connect with licensed pharmacists for virtual consultations through a quick scan.
- Seasonal Promotions: Use QR codes in seasonal campaigns to highlight discounts on flu shots, allergy medications, or supplements.
- Recall Notices: Share up-to-date recall information quickly and easily through dynamic QR codes placed on notices or pharmacy displays.
Conclusion
As QR code technology evolves, it’s becoming an essential tool for pharmacies aiming to succeed in the digital age. Integrating dynamic QR codes improves efficiency, enhances patient experiences, and keeps your business ahead of the competition.
Start leveraging QR codes today to modernize your pharmacy operations, deliver exceptional service, and build stronger customer relationships. To learn more about how dynamic QR codes are innovating today’s businesses, visit our Academy for more educational content.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can dynamic QR codes be used for telehealth services in pharmacies?
Dynamic QR codes can link customers to virtual consultation services, allowing them to easily schedule a video call with a licensed pharmacist. This is especially helpful for patients who need medication advice but cannot visit the pharmacy in person.
Can dynamic QR codes help pharmacies promote seasonal health products?
Yes, dynamic QR codes can be used in seasonal marketing campaigns to highlight special offers, discounts, or new seasonal products like flu vaccines or allergy treatments.
How can pharmacies ensure the security of data shared through dynamic QR codes?
Pharmacies should use secure QR code generators, host linked information on encrypted (HTTPS) servers, and ensure all data complies with HIPAA regulations to protect patient privacy.
Are dynamic QR codes suitable for pharmaceutical recalls?
Absolutely. Pharmacies can use QR codes on recall notices to direct customers to a secure webpage detailing recall information, return procedures, and refund options.
How can dynamic QR codes be used for loyalty programs in pharmacies?
Pharmacies can integrate QR codes into their loyalty programs, allowing customers to scan codes to collect points or redeem rewards directly from their smartphones.
Can dynamic QR codes support multilingual customer service?
Yes. Pharmacies can create dynamic QR codes linking to information in multiple languages, ensuring that customers from diverse backgrounds can access medication details and pharmacy services in their preferred language.
