In a move aimed at modernising the pharmacy experience, Amazon Pharmacy has introduced a delivery service of prescription medications called ‘Same-Day Delivery’ in New York City and the greater Los Angeles area.
Leveraging AI technology and a fleet of environmentally friendly delivery vehicles, Amazon Pharmacy aims to provide convenience and efficiency to its customers.
The expansion of Same-Day Delivery is seemingly part of Amazon Pharmacy’s larger initiative to transform the traditional pharmacy model. By integrating its logistics network with advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning, Amazon Pharmacy is redefining the way prescription medications are managed and delivered.
“By bringing Amazon Pharmacy’s deliveries into our existing world-class logistics network, Amazon is building the fastest and most convenient service for the home delivery of prescription medications,” said Doug Herrington, CEO of Worldwide Amazon Stores. “These faster delivery speeds will be a game changer when you or your family need your medications quickly.”
The Same-Day Delivery service utilises a variety of delivery methods tailored to each city’s needs. In densely populated areas like New York City, eco-friendly e-bikes are deployed to navigate through traffic and deliver medications directly to customers’ doors. In suburban areas, electric vans and drones are utilised to ensure swift and efficient delivery.
Furthermore, Amazon Pharmacy has established new small-format facilities stocked with the most commonly prescribed medications. These facilities enable pharmacists to process prescriptions quickly and accurately, ensuring that customers receive their medications in a timely manner.
One of the key innovations driving the Same-Day Delivery service is the use of AI to streamline prescription management. Amazon’s AI models assist pharmacists in filling prescriptions more efficiently, reducing processing times from hours to mere minutes.
“AI doesn’t replace the role of the pharmacist; it allows them to operate at the top of their license,” said Kelvin Downes, director of fulfilment for Amazon Pharmacy. “Rather than doing duplicative work, pharmacists can use the skills they went to school for to deliver better patient experiences.”
With Same-Day Delivery, Amazon Pharmacy reportedly aims to not only improve convenience but also enhance health outcomes for customers. By eliminating long wait times and providing real-time delivery updates, Amazon Pharmacy is hoping to transform the way prescription medications are accessed and managed.
“I lead a busy life between my business and family,” said Zack Streit, a customer based in Los Angeles. “I’ve been using Amazon Pharmacy for about four months now, and it’s been a very pleasant, efficient experience. I travel a lot, have a pretty demanding career, and want to maximise time with my family. Amazon Pharmacy helps by giving me one less thing to think about.”