Drone delivery company Zipline said May 21 that it will use its electric, autonomous drones to drop off items from the hospital to a patient’s home. For example, a hospital-at-home patient could see a physician via a virtual visit then have a drone deliver a prescription a few minutes later.
“This innovative use of drones not only reduces costs by minimizing the need for traditional transportation but also expedites care, ensuring that essential medical supplies and medications reach patients promptly,” Michael Maniaci, MD, chief clinical officer of advanced care at home for Mayo Clinic, told Becker’s. “By leveraging drones, Mayo Clinic enhances its ability to provide timely, efficient, and high-quality healthcare, ultimately improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.”
The program will start with Mayo Clinic’s hospital-at-home program in Jacksonville, Fla., and general logistics in Florida and Minnesota, with future expansions possible for Mayo locations in Wisconsin and Arizona, Dr. Maniaci said. The delivery will likely start with basic supplies such as bandages, bottles and tubes, before moving on to items that require more regulatory approval, including lab work and medications. The drone platform could go live as soon as 2025.
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
