Describe a computerized pharmacy that uses robots and barcodes.

A fully automated dispensing system involves the employment of a robot. In one such system, a prescription is entered into the pharmacy computer; the pharmacy computer, in turn, activates the pharmacy robot, which first determines what size vial is needed for the prescriptionfrom the three available sizes. A robotic arm grips the correct size. One system has 200 cells, each containing a different drug. The robotic arm is moved to the correct cell, and the tablets or capsules are counted by a sensor and dropped into the vial. The computer prints a label and puts it on the vial, which is delivered via a conveyer belt to the pharmacist. The pharmacist uses a barcode reader to scan the barcode on the label; an image of the medication and prescription information appears on the screen. The pharmacist then puts the lid on and gives the customer the prescription.