Business Continuity and Risk Management – Toniq

Keeping a pharmacy open and running in a crisis requires planning and preparation. To ensure business continuity is as smooth as possible, consider the points below.

Backups

Backups are a necessity and should not be underestimated for risk mitigation. If a major event (e.g., flood or earthquake) incapacitates your business then an off-site backup is the last line of defence from complete loss.

Ensure backups are done at least daily and are accessible off-site.
Test backups routinely to ensure that they able to be restored in case of emergency i.e., the data is valid. Cloud-based solutions like Toniq Vault will do automatic backups and test them for data integrity.

Infrastructure

Power

A stable power connection is crucial, especially in emergency situations.

Consider a UPS (uninterrupted power supply) for each business-critical workstation (e.g., server) and any other infrastructure such as local network and internet connection.

Internet / Health Network

Many services require an internet connection including EFTPOS and NZePS. Your Connected Health network connection is required for ePrescribing, Special Authority lookups, and claiming.

Investigate having a backup internet connection such as a 4G hotspot for the router.

Printers

Laser printers require a high amount of energy to print - you may want a backup plan where you can print any required receipts or labels.

Look into a contingency plan for sufficient power to run the label printer, as well as the server.

Computers

If you are unable to return to the premises due to a major event, you will need a device off-site to restore the most recent Toniq backup onto.

Possibly invest in a laptop or workstation that is not permanently at the pharmacy.

Communications

Depending on the event you may need to contact customers, suppliers, and other interested parties.

Have contact details for Te Whatu Ora, Pharmac, and your district portfolio manager so you are able to get advice as to what best to do in the situation.
Plan how to contact patients and customers in an emergency, to advise them of any changes to prescription availability, or other interruption to business. Texting is a great way to send out bulk comms to your customer base.