One of the first questions on anyone’s mind when researching pharmacy software is, “How much does pharmacy software cost?” With operating budgets to keep in mind, it’s an essential question to ask; however, the answer isn’t as straightforward as one might hope.

So how much does pharmacy software cost?

Pharmacy management software packages can easily range from $10,000 to $100,000, depending greatly on the features and the needs of your particular pharmacy.

Every pharmacy is a little bit different. Each one is a different size, with different needs and a different customer base. Likewise, each of the over 200 pharmacy management software that exist are a little bit different. Let’s go over some of the things these pharmacy software solutions have in common, and how they’re unique, so you can better understand what you’re looking for.

Pharmacy Software Must-Haves

All pharmacy software should have a few things in common. They’ll need to include things like pharmacy management basics, on-boarding support, educational resources and on-site software training. They also need to have third party interfaces, and most will include monthly software support, software modules, and additional management services.

For pharmacy software that just covers the basics, you’ll likely spend between $15,000 and $30,000 (one time cost.) You also might be asked to pay a monthly fee between $100 and $500 for support and upgrades.

Remember that it’s not just software you’re getting in the purchase price. You’ll be buying the essential hardware as well.

The hardware should include things like a server, workstation, barcode reader, laser printer for patient education, thermal label printer, image scanner, and biometric fingerprint readers. Larger pharmacies might require multiple workstations, scanners, label makers, and fingerprint readers to meet their needs, which will affect the total price of your software package.

Note: When you buy a pharmacy management software package, be sure the price you were quoted includes all installation and training fees. The training needed to teach your team to use the software can make or break the purchase, and any company selling software without training should be avoided at all costs.

Replacing Existing Pharmacy Software

If you already have existing pharmacy software that you’re looking to replace, you’ll save a bit off the purchase price. Replacing existing pharmacy software should cost you between $10,000 and $30,000, although you may have to pay a separate fee to convert and transfer your existing data to the new system.

Why is replacing pharmacy software cheaper? Most existing pharmacies already own their own hardware, and as long as it’s compatible with the new software, it will be a huge savings from repurchasing all of the hardware. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case and the hardware may not be compatible. It’s also important to note that using old hardware can also affect the training process, so you’ll want to closely review your current situation with your potential new software provider before making any assumptions or final purchase decisions.

Point-of-Sale Software

Point of sale (POS) software should be compatible with your pharmacy management software, and if you’re buying it all from the same company, it’s likely to be included in the package price. However, if you’re looking to purchase your POS software separately, expect a price tag of $10,000+.

All pharmacy POS software needs to include, at the very least: FSA card processing, Patient data management, HIPAA signatures, prescription status, and bin-location integration and a single register (along with the installation and training, of course). Additional registers will cost extra.

It’s Important to Choose a Trusted Software Provider

New pharmacy owners sometimes find themselves overwhelmed by these expenses. However, in the modern world, a quality pharmacy management software is not only an important investment, but it plays an essential role in the overall success of your pharmacy. Luckily, independent pharmacy owners who choose a reliable software provider, such as industry leader Datascan, will find that setting up their new pharmacy software system can be a smooth and worry-free experience.

Datascan is one of the few family-owned pharmacy software providers, and as such, Datascan truly treats all their customers like family. Datascan has been working to modernize independent pharmacies since 1981. The Datascan team will ensure that getting your pharmacy management software system installed – and your employees up to speed – is hassle-free. Plus, with the fastest customer service response time in history, Datascan clients will never be kept waiting – which means your customers won’t be kept waiting either.

Keep in mind that you aren’t just purchasing software – you’re investing in hardware and, more importantly, a partnership with a software company that will help grow your business for years to come.

For a detailed price quote of Datascan Pharmacy Software, submit your information below. We’ll schedule a free demo and put together a software package that fits your needs and budget.