North America dominates the estimated $6.2 billion automated dispensing machines market, a market expected to grow to $8.3 billion by 2030, according to a report by Grand View Research.
In-patient applications make up the largest segment of the global automated dispensing machines market, while the retail drug store and pharmacies segment is expected to grow the fastest from 2023 to 2030, according to Grand View Research.
Global automated dispensing machines market share. Grandview Research
Among the trends driving the growing healthcare dispensing systems market, according to a report by Strategy and Stats (SNS) Insider:
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Increasing adoption of automated dispensing cabinets and pharmacy systems to improve medication safety and workflow efficiency
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Increasing integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud-based platforms for real-time inventory monitoring and data analytics
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Growing demand for unit dose and controlled substance dispensing systems in hospitals and clinics
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Expansion of out-patient and ambulatory care centers driving need for compact and efficient dispensing solutions
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Advances in barcoding, robotics, and AI-enabled systems to reduce errors and enhance patient safety
Omnicell, BD, and McKesson are among the leaders in this highly competitive market.
Emergency medical technicians using the BD MedBank Tower for dispensing of medical supplies and drugs. BD
Next-generation technology includes increasing use of robotics. For example, machines like “JVM’s MENITH use robotic arms to auto-exchange canisters and dispense up to 120 pouches per minute, double the speed of traditional models. The robot ‘Zing’ (also nicknamed Bodhi) automates the preparation, pouring, labeling, sealing, and capping of methadone doses at opioid treatment clinics. This innovation has freed nurses from repetitive tasks, allowing them more patient interaction time. Over 1 million doses have already been prepared by 2025,” according to a report by Towards Healthcare.
As a result of rising demand to safely store and handle temperature-sensitive medications and regulated drugs, the fastest growing product segment features refrigerated and controlled substance dispensing systems, according to SNS Insider.
Focusing on technology, barcoding, and radio frequency identification (RFID) systems are leading technologies, as they enable accurate tracking, verification, and inventory management across healthcare dispensing systems.
“Integrated IoT systems are the fastest-growing technology segment, offering real-time connectivity between dispensing devices, sensors, and software platforms,” according to SNS.