How Automated Dose Dispensing technology improves the management of medications in social-care facilities: the OPSA case

This thesis investigates the impact of Automated Dose Dispensing (ADD) technology on the management of solid oral medications in social‑care facilities, using the Opera della Provvidenza S. Antonio (OPSA) as a case study. The work reviews the current state of medication management in social‑care settings and identifies common process inefficiencies. A Closed Loop Medication Management (CLMM) model is then introduced as a framework for process improvement, with ADD positioned as a core component. After exposing history, technical features and market variants of ADD technology, the thesis focuses on ADD implementation in social-care facilities. Within the OPSA organizational context, the pre and post ADD implementation medication workflows are mapped using Makigami diagrams while risks are assessed thanks to Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) technique. Quantitative gains are quantified through economic and time analyses. Investment appraisal methods such as net present value, payback period and internal rate of return are used to assess the economic convenience of the ADD from an organizational perspective. Time measurements indicate annual savings for therapy preparation and data conversion time between software platforms. In conclusion the integration of ADD enhances medication management safety and efficiency in social‑care facilities. Finally thesis limitations and possibilities for process improvement are proposed.