Making MedSync Work: A Practical Framework for Pharmacy Efficiency

Medication Synchronization (MedSync) continues to prove itself as one of the most impactful operational strategies in pharmacy today. Developed initially as a patient convenience tool, MedSync has grown into a comprehensive approach to improving adherence, reclaiming workflow time, and supporting the delivery of clinical care.

Understanding MedSync as a Workflow Model

At its core, MedSync aligns a patient’s chronic medications to be refilled on the same day each month. This approach minimizes unexpected refill requests, enhances medication adherence, and enables the pharmacy team to plan more efficiently.

But beyond convenience, MedSync serves as a workflow framework, bringing structure to daily operations and allowing pharmacies to scale both volume and service offerings with greater consistency.

When pharmacies integrate MedSync into their operations, they often see:

• Improved medication adherence
• Greater operational efficiency
• Increased time for clinical services
• Stronger patient engagement
• Opportunities to participate in enhanced payer networks

From Reactive to Proactive: The Operational Impact

In the absence of MedSync, pharmacies often operate in reactive mode, responding to refill requests as they arise. This leads to a fluctuating and frequently unpredictable workflow, making it difficult to manage time and resources efficiently

MedSync allows pharmacy teams to manage workload in advance. By syncing multiple medications to a common fill date, pharmacies can schedule pickups or deliveries, manage inventory more effectively, and reduce last-minute interventions.

Structured Implementation: A Layered Approach

Implementing a successful MedSync program doesn’t have to happen all at once. Taking a phased, step-by-step approach allows pharmacies to establish consistency, make adjustments along the way, and build a sustainable workflow. One proven model is the MedSync Practice Pyramid, which outlines a pathway from foundational steps to advanced opportunities.

Foundational Steps

1. Commit to MedSync: Designate a Med Sync Supervisor who will lead this initiative and map out each step of the workflow process.
2. Enroll Patients: Begin with patients on multiple chronic medications, that require delivery, or could benefit from compliance packaging
3. Refine and Improve: Plan, implement, and review. Don’t let this program create frustration and failure. Identify the steps that are causing the problem, fix that problem, and try again.

Operational Efficiency

1. Reclaim Time & Streamline Workflow: Implementing Med Sync allows pharmacies to batch refills and reduce daily interruptions. Some pharmacies enhance this by introducing a “golden hour”—delaying public opening by one hour to complete up to 60% of prescriptions in a focused, interruption-free environment. This proactive approach boosts productivity and reduces stress throughout the day.
2. Support Adherence & Identify Opportunities: Med Sync programs help pinpoint non-adherent patients, making it easier to offer solutions like compliance packaging—improving outcomes and strengthening patient relationships.

Expanded Services

1. Clinical Appointments: The time you have reclaimed through effective operation efficiency will allow you to schedule CMRs, MTMs, and vaccinations.
2. Payer Participation: Adherence is a key quality that value-based networks and enhanced reimbursement programs actively reward. By supporting patient adherence through programs like MedSync, your pharmacy can position itself to benefit from these performance-based incentives.

This layered structure helps pharmacies build toward long-term growth while maintaining control at every stage.

Technology That Aligns with Your Workflow

MedSync is most effective when the tools supporting it are adaptable to your specific process, not the other way around.

For example, PharmacyOne by Liberty Software offers features that allow pharmacies to customize their MedSync approach:

• Create multiple MedSync profiles
• Adjust fills in real time
• Filter and identify eligible patientsCustomize workflow fields and ribbons
• Automate refill communications by text, voice, or email

These tools allow each pharmacy to implement MedSync according to their model, whether that’s by patient type, service line, or operational cadence.

MedSync Supports Clinical and Growth Goals

As more pharmacies deliver clinical care, MedSync provides the operational foundation to support these services. Scheduling vaccine appointments, conducting MTMs, and engaging in remote patient monitoring becomes easier when the refill schedule is predictable and planned.

Additionally, many payer networks and performance programs evaluate adherence rates, refill consistency, and patient outcomes, all of which are strengthened by a robust MedSync strategy.

Practical Guidance for Getting Started

Pharmacies looking to begin or improve their MedSync program can benefit from these best practices:

• Start with a Pilot Group: Begin with a manageable number of patients to test the workflow.
• Assign Roles Clearly: Define who handles enrollment, patient communication, and follow-up.
• Use Built-in Tools: Leverage software features for tracking, messaging, and adjustments.
• Communicate the Value: Help patients understand the benefits of aligned pickups and fewer pharmacy visits.
• Review Regularly: Evaluate performance and refine the process based on outcomes and team feedback.

A Strategy for Sustainable Growth

Medication Synchronization is no longer just a value-add; it’s a scalable, sustainable model for operating an efficient pharmacy. When combined with the right tools and team alignment, MedSync allows pharmacies to improve patient care, enhance workflow, and prepare for broader participation in clinical and payer programs.

As the role of pharmacists continues to expand, MedSync provides a consistent framework for delivering high-quality care with operational control.

Liberty Software provides pharmacy management systems that support efficient, patient- focused operations. Through the PharmacyOne platform, Liberty offers tools to help pharmacies streamline Medication Synchronization (MedSync), deliver clinical services, and participate in value-based care programs. With features designed to enhance workflow, improve communication, and support flexible operations, Liberty empowers pharmacy teams to operate confidently and efficiently. Learn more at www.libertysoftware.com.