St. Margaret’s Hospital Pharmacy

A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE

A grandfather’s 1917 pharmacy license proudly on display; an extensive antique pharmacy collection; grandfather, father, uncle, two brothers and a niece who are pharmacists: St. Margaret’s Hospital Pharmacy Director Michael Terry Arkins upholds a long family tradition in his chosen profession. When Joe Rogers of Bradford Systems informed Terry that he did not have to settle for a cold, institutional look in his new pharmacy, he was ecstatic. “I had no idea that there were so many choices! With the wood laminate, I am able to achieve the look of an old-time pharmacy which is both relaxing and conducive to work.” Marrying this traditional appearance with modern features and benefits, Terry selected a brand new product for the surface of his HAMILTON casework. WilsonArt High Definition/High Pressure laminate features the subtle variations in color and finish characteristic of textured granite while providing four times the industry standard in wear-resistance.

“Even if we cannot choose every bell and whistle because of our budget, it is nice to be aware of all of the options and HAMILTONoffers so many,” says Terry. “Joe knows the right questions to ask and has the vision. He led us through all possible solutions.” For example, since HAMILTON back panels do not have to be attached to a wall, Terry was able to spec an efficient U-shape scenario for the unit dose area with freestanding panels on the sides. Floor-to-ceiling storage including deep drawers and overhead adjustable shelves provide easy access to medications. “I had originally envisioned the shelves as flat because I thought that was the only alternative. These angled shelves are very convenient and easy to adjust.”

Terry chose additional options to support the pharmacy’s new workflow from HAMILTON’s full line. Heavy printers are tucked away in roll-out drawers. The overheads in the narcotics station are cabinets rather than the flip top presented as the only option by the competition. Each of his three clinical pharmacists now have their own quiet space in a nook with new computers and locked personal cabinets. Hamilton Casework Solutions’ comprehensive services including computer generated design helped Terry navigate the many choices. “The visual aids were key. In sequencing out our workflow, the professional floor plans and CAD drawings helped my staff and me in our decision-making. We could see the issues on paper and when we made small changes, Joe provided us with new digital files of the altered plans.”