Driving Clinical Excellence Across
Hospitals & Health Systems
What role does infusion pharmacy play in the
modern hospital or health system?
Infusion pharmacy is the backbone of patient care in hospitals
and health systems. Every sterile preparation, compounded
medication, and infusion delivered to the bedside represents
the expertise and precision of the pharmacy team. Infusion
pharmacists ensure that therapies are accurate, safe, and aligned
with evidence-based practice.1
In recent years, the role of infusion pharmacy has expanded
significantly. Beyond preparing sterile products, pharmacists
now drive initiatives in medication safety, clinical optimization,
and interdisciplinary collaboration. The infusion service line
has evolved from a production-focused operation to a strategic
clinical service that directly impacts patient outcomes, regulatory
compliance, and institutional efficiency.
How is technology transforming infusion
pharmacy practice?
Technology is reshaping infusion operations across every phase of
the medication-use process. Automated IV compounding systems,
barcode verification, gravimetric technologies, and workflow
management software have become essential tools for ensuring
accuracy and compliance.2
Integration with the electronic health record (EHR) allows real-
time verification and documentation, reducing transcription
errors and improving traceability. Artificial intelligence (AI) and
predictive analytics are also emerging in pharmacy operations.
Hospitals are beginning to use AI-driven dashboards to forecast
shortages, monitor workflow performance, and detect potential
compounding deviations before they occur.3
These innovations enhance safety and optimize resources. Directors
of pharmacy who invest in digital compounding workflows and
data-driven process monitoring are better positioned to improve
both quality metrics and financial outcomes.3
What are the primary compliance and regulatory
concerns facing infusion pharmacies today?
Compliance with USP <797> Pharmaceutical Compounding
— Sterile Preparations and USP <800> Hazardous Drugs —
Handling in Healthcare Settings remains foundational to infusion
pharmacy operations.4 Inspections are increasingly focused on
process validation, staff competency, and continuous environmental
monitoring.
Hazardous drug handling requires not only physical containment
and ventilation but also documented training, certification,
and regular re-evaluation of staff competency.4 Continuous
quality assurance and documentation are critical to maintaining
compliance under evolving medication management standards.5
Many health systems are also aligning compliance with
sustainability objectives. Energy-efficient cleanroom operations,
waste reduction programs, and greener supply chains are now
part of broader ESG initiatives in hospital pharmacy leadership.
What are the biggest challenges currently facing
infusion pharmacies in hospitals?
Staffing shortages and burnout remain pressing concerns. Sterile
compounding and infusion services demand technical precision
SUMMER 2026 I HEALTH SYSTEM • INFUSION
22
The Future of
INFUSION
PHARMACY
Contributed by Samantha Denson, PharmD, RPh, Global Medical Affairs Fellow, Abbott