Medicine receiving system

Abstract

To provide a medicine receiving system which allows a customer to purchase first category medicine at convenience even when a pharmacy is not open for business.SOLUTION: A locker system, which is a medicine receiving system connected to the Internet via a LAN and communicating with a user terminal, includes: a locker device used for dispensing prescription medicine; a management server for managing the dispensing of prescription medicine using the locker device; and a LAN connecting them. The management server includes: a communication part which connects a user terminal held by a user and a terminal operated by a pharmacist or other staff member at a dispensing pharmacy via communication to provide the user with explanations about the medicine to be received; and an explanation completion confirmation part for confirming completion of the explanation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical receiving system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a prescription drug sales system that controls the execution of drug sales processing by checking whether authentication information for authenticating a user corresponds to patient information included in a prescription, for the purpose of preventing drugs from being sold to a purchaser who has no relation to the patient targeted by the prescription when purchasing drugs using an electronic prescription and electronic commerce.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The invention according to claim 1 is a pharmaceutical receiving system including a connection unit that communicatively connects a user terminal held by a user and a terminal operated by a pharmacist or other store clerk at a dispensing pharmacy, and an explanation completion confirmation unit for confirming completion of the explanation, in order to provide an explanation about a pharmaceutical product to be received to the user. The invention according to claim 2 is the pharmaceutical receiving system according to claim 1, further including a storage unit that stores whether the explanation has been completed. The invention according to claim 3 is the pharmaceutical receiving system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that information indicating completion of the explanation is input through the terminal operated by a pharmacist or other store clerk at a dispensing pharmacy. The invention according to claim 4 is the pharmaceutical receiving system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that information indicating completion of the explanation is input through the user terminal held by the user.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0006] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. <Embodiment 1> <System Configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of the prescription medicine receiving system 1 used in Embodiment 1. The prescription medicine receiving system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a locker system 10 operated by a dispensing pharmacy, a terminal 20 used by a user who utilizes the prescription medicine receiving service (hereinafter also referred to as "prescription medicine receiving service") outside the business hours of the dispensing pharmacy, and the Internet 30 that realizes communication between these. The prescription medicine in the present embodiment refers to the medicine dispensed by a pharmacist based on a prescription. Further, the locker system 10 in the present embodiment is an example of an article receiving system. Also, the terminal 20 is an example of a user terminal. Note that the prescription medicine receiving system 1 including the terminal 20 may be used as an example of an article receiving system.

[0007] In the case of the present embodiment, the locker system 10 includes a locker device 100 used for delivering and receiving dispensed medicine, a management server 200 that manages the delivery and reception of dispensed medicine using the locker device 100, and a LAN (= Local Area Network) 300 that connects these. Note that the LAN 300 is connected to the Internet 30 through a router or the like (not shown). In the case of Fig. 1, the terminal 20 is the terminal of Mr. A. Therefore, one of the storage boxes 110 that make up the locker device 100 stores Mr. A's prescription medicine. The prescription medicine here is an example of an item to be transferred. However, the items stored in the storage box 110 are not limited to prescription medicines. In other words, the locker device 100 can also be used for transferring items other than prescription medicines.

[0008] In the prescription medicine transfer system 1 shown in Fig. 1, only one user terminal 20 is drawn for convenience of explanation, but in reality, a plurality of terminals 20 are connected. Also, in Fig. 1, a smartphone is assumed as the terminal 20, but the terminal 20 is not limited to a smartphone. For example, the terminal 20 may be a portable terminal such as a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, or a wearable terminal, or a stationary terminal such as a desktop personal computer. For example, a smartphone has a touch panel composed of a display such as a liquid crystal display and a touch sensor, an imaging camera, a fingerprint sensor, a GPS sensor, a CPU, a semiconductor memory, a battery, etc. In the case of this embodiment, the imaging camera can be used to acquire the user's face image at the time of authentication. Also, the fingerprint sensor can be used to acquire the user's fingerprint at the time of authentication. That is, the imaging camera and the fingerprint sensor are used as an example of the acquisition means. Also, the touch panel is an example of the display means.

[0009] The locker system 10 in this embodiment is installed within the premises of a dispensing pharmacy or a drugstore adjacent to the dispensing pharmacy (hereinafter referred to as "dispensing pharmacy etc."). However, the locker device 100 and the management server 200 do not have to exist within the same premises. The locker device 100 may be installed, for example, within a railway station, inside or outside a convenience store, or inside or outside a commercial facility that operates until late at night. When the locker device 100 and the management server 200 are located on different sites, the locker device 100 and the management server 200 are connected via, for example, the Internet 30. When the locker device 100 and the management server 200 are connected via the Internet 30, encrypted communication is used for communication between the locker device 100 and the management server 200. For example, https (= hypertext transfer protocol secure) communication is used.

[0010] <Configuration of the locker device> FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the locker device 100. The locker device 100 shown in FIG. 2 is composed of 32 storage boxes 110 and a centralized management unit 120 that manages locking and unlocking of the storage boxes 110. The storage box 110 is an example of a storage space. Each storage box 110 is a space divided into individual rooms and is used for storing prescription drugs and other articles. Each storage box 110 is provided with a lock mechanism 110A. The movement of the lock mechanism 110A is managed by the centralized management unit 120. In the case of the locker device 100 shown in FIG. 2, the volumes of the storage boxes 110 are all the same. However, the locker device 100 may combine storage boxes 110 with different volumes.

[0011] The centralized management unit 120 is a device incorporating a computer and is operated by a user who receives a prescription drug. The centralized management unit 120 is communicably connected to each lock mechanism 110A and controls the lock mechanism 110A to a locked state or an unlocked state. The centralized management unit 120 is communicably connected to the management server 200 (see FIG. 1). When the user who has come to receive the prescription drug meets the receiving conditions, the centralized management unit 120 controls the lock mechanism 110A of the storage box 110 in which the prescription drug is stored to the unlocked state. When the lock mechanism 110A is controlled to the unlocked state, the user can open the door of the storage box 110 and take out the prescription drug.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the centralized management unit 120. On the front surface of the centralized management unit 120 shown in FIG. 3, a display operation unit 121, a speaker 122, a code reader 123, a card reader 124, a printer 125, a bill processing unit 126A, a coin insertion slot 126B, a coin return slot 126C, and an authentication information reader 127 are arranged. These are used as interfaces for the user. The display operation unit 121 is composed of, for example, a touch panel. On the display operation unit 121, the content of the operation required of the user and the information provided to the user are displayed. Also, the display operation unit 121 is used to receive operations by the user. The speaker 122 is used for voice output of the content of the operation required of the user and the information provided to the user.

[0013] The code reader 123 is used for reading and inputting an authentication code issued for receiving prescription drugs. The authentication code in the present embodiment serves as a release key for the storage box 110. The authentication code is an example of the second identification information. For example, when the authentication code is a graphic pattern, the code reader 123 reads the authentication code displayed on the terminal 20 or printed on a sheet such as a receipt by an imaging camera. Graphic patterns include, for example, two-dimensional codes such as QR (= Quick Response) codes (registered trademarks) and one-dimensional codes such as barcodes.

[0014] Also, for example, when the authentication code is a character string such as a password or a PIN (= Personal Identification Number) code, the code reader 123 is used to receive input of the character string using a hard key or a soft key. However, it is also possible to adopt a method of reading the password or PIN code with an imaging camera. The code reader 123 is an example of the second acquisition means.

[0015] The card reader 124 is used for electronic payment using a card with electronic money information or a credit card. The printer 125 is used for printing receipts and the like that record payment holds and prescription pick-ups. The banknote processing unit 126A, the coin insertion slot 126B, and the coin return slot 126C are used for cash payments. Hereinafter, the banknote processing unit 126A, the coin insertion slot 126B, and the coin return slot 126C are collectively referred to as the currency processing unit 126 (see FIG. 4). The authentication information reader 127 is used for reading information used for recipient authentication. In the case of this embodiment, as information used for recipient authentication, for example, biometric information, items described in a public identity document, a membership number issued by a dispensing pharmacy or the like, and a QR code issued by a dispensing pharmacy or the like for receiving a prescription drug are used.

[0016] For authentication using biometric information, there are authentication using a face image, authentication using a voiceprint, authentication using a fingerprint, authentication using a vein, and the like. Also, public identity documents used for authentication include a driver's license, a health insurance card, a resident basic register card, and the like. For reading information from a public identity document, an imaging camera may be used, or an IC card reader capable of reading data of an IC chip embedded in the identity document may be used. Also, for reading a membership number or QR code issued by a dispensing pharmacy or the like, an imaging camera or a QR code reader is used. However, the membership number issued by a dispensing pharmacy or the like can also be input using a hard key or soft key provided in the centralized management unit 120. The authentication information reader 127 used for reading biometric information is an example of an acquisition means. Also, the authentication information reader 127 used for reading authentication information other than biometric information is an example of a second acquisition means. Information other than biometric information read by the authentication information reader 127 is an example of second identification information. Note that the above-described code reader 123 may be used also for reading authentication information other than biometric information.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of the functional configuration of the centralized management unit 120. The centralized management unit 120 shown in FIG. 4 has a display operation unit 121, a speaker 122, a code reader 123, a card reader 124, a printer 125, a currency processing unit 126, an authentication information reader 127, a communication unit 128, a storage unit 129, and a control unit 130. The communication unit 128 is used for communication with the management server 200 (see FIG. 1). The storage unit 129 is composed of, for example, a hard disk device or a non-volatile semiconductor memory. Information used for managing the storage of articles in the storage box 110 (hereinafter referred to as "storage management data") is stored in the storage unit 129. The storage management data includes, for example, information uniquely identifying the storage box 110, the number attached to the door of the storage box 110, information indicating whether it is in use or in an empty state, and an authentication code used for unlocking when in use.

[0018] The control unit 130 is a computer that controls the entire locker device 100 and is composed of a CPU (= Central Processing Unit), a ROM (= Read Only Memory), and a RAM (= Random Access Memory) (not shown). Through the execution of programs, the control unit 130 functions as a storage management unit 130A, an explanatory video playback unit 130B, an article retrieval management unit 130C, an article deposit processing unit 130D, a lock control unit 130E, and a settlement processing unit 130F. The storage management unit 130A is a functional unit that manages the state of the storage box 110. When there is a change in the state or management information of the storage box 110, the storage management unit 130A updates the storage management data 129A. In addition, the storage management unit 130A transmits the empty status of the storage box 110 indicated in the storage management data 129A to the management server 200. The states of the storage box 110 include "empty", "in storage", and "under failure".

[0019] The explanatory video playback unit 130B is a functional unit for playing an explanatory video regarding prescription drugs required when receiving prescription drugs. Under current laws and regulations, when delivering prescription drugs, pharmacists are obliged to provide explanations. In the present embodiment, in order to realize the delivery of prescription drugs outside the business hours of the pharmacy, as a means of substituting for the explanation by the pharmacist within the pharmacy, explanations by the pharmacist via videophone, playback of a video in which the pharmacist explains the prescription drug (hereinafter referred to as "explanatory video"), etc. are assumed. The explanatory video playback unit 130B displays the playback image of the explanatory video on the display operation unit 121 provided in the centralized management unit 120. The display operation unit 121 on which the explanatory video is displayed is an example of a display means. However, it is also possible to play back an image of the prescription drug instruction manual instead of the explanatory video.

[0020] The article extraction management unit 130C is a functional unit for managing the permission or non-permission of extraction from the storage box 110 for prescription drugs and the like. The article extraction management unit 130C is used, for example, to determine whether the read or input authentication code matches the authentication code required for unlocking the storage box 110 in which the user's prescription drug is stored. When the authentication code assigned to the storage box 110 matches the authentication code read or input through the code reader 123, the article extraction management unit 130C instructs the lock control unit 130E to unlock the corresponding storage box 110.

[0021] On the other hand, when the authentication code assigned to the storage box 110 does not match the authentication code read or input through the code reader 123, the article extraction management unit 130C displays on the display operation unit 121 that the authentication codes do not match. Also, when the user inputs the authentication information necessary for extracting the prescription drug using the locker device 100, the article extraction management unit 130C transmits the input authentication information to the management server 200 (see FIG. 1) and receives the authentication result.

[0022] The item deposit processing unit 130D is a functional unit that executes processing associated with the deposit of items such as prescription drugs. In the case of this embodiment, when the item deposit processing unit 130D detects the storage of prescription drugs in an empty storage box 110, it associates information uniquely identifying the storage box 110 in which the prescription drugs are stored and the number attached to the door of the storage box 110 with information identifying the user corresponding to the stored prescription drugs, an authentication code used for unlocking, etc., and registers them in the storage unit 129 as storage management data 129A. The lock control unit 130E is a functional unit that controls the locking and unlocking of the storage box 110 by transmitting a locking instruction or an unlocking instruction to the locking mechanism 110A. The settlement processing unit 130F is a functional unit that executes cash settlement or electronic settlement.

[0023] <Configuration of the management server> FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of the functional configuration of the management server 200 installed in a dispensing pharmacy or the like. The management server 200 is a device that realizes a prescription drug collection service outside the business hours of a dispensing pharmacy in cooperation with the locker device 100 (see FIG. 1). The management server 200 shown in FIG. 5 includes a display operation unit 201, a communication unit 202, a storage unit 203, and a control unit 204. The display operation unit 201 is composed of an input device and a display used by a pharmacist or other store clerk of a dispensing pharmacy for operation. As the input device, for example, a keyboard or a POS (=Point Of Sale) terminal is used. Also, as the display, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (=Electro Luminescence) display is used.

[0024] The communication unit 202 is used for communication with the locker device 100 (see FIG. 1). The storage unit 203 is composed of, for example, a hard disk drive or a non-volatile semiconductor memory. The storage unit 203 includes a database (hereinafter referred to as "user DB") 203A that stores information of users who use the prescription drug receiving service, a database (hereinafter referred to as "prescription DB") 203B that stores information of prescriptions received from users, a database (hereinafter referred to as "explanation video DB") 203C that stores explanation videos of prescription drugs, a database (hereinafter referred to as "pick-up destination DB") 203D that stores the desired pick-up location, date and time, etc. of the user, a database (hereinafter referred to as "authentication information DB") 203E that stores information used for authenticating users who use the prescription drug receiving service, a database (hereinafter referred to as "settlement information DB") 203F that stores information related to the payment of prescription drugs, and a database (hereinafter referred to as "progress DB") 203G that stores information related to the progress of the prescription drug receiving service.

[0025] The user DB 203A stores, for example, the name, gender, address, and membership number issued by a dispensing pharmacy, etc. of the user. The prescription DB 203B stores, for example, the name of the user who uses the prescription drug receiving service, the image data of the prescription, and the information of the prescribed drug in a state associated with the reception number issued upon receipt of the prescription. The explanation video DB 203C stores, for example, the explanation video recorded by a pharmacist in a state associated with the reception number issued upon receipt of the prescription. However, the explanation video does not necessarily need to be recorded for each prescription, and it may be recorded for each prescription drug. In this case, the explanation video is read out for each prescription drug described in the prescription. The pick-up destination DB 203D stores, for example, the desired pick-up location of the user, the desired pick-up date and time of the user, information for identifying the locker device 100 (see FIG. 1), information for identifying the storage box 110 (see FIG. 3) in which the prescription drug is stored, and the number attached to the door of the storage box 110 in a state associated with the reception number issued upon receipt of the prescription.

[0026] The authentication information DB203E stores authentication information that has been pre-registered by users who use, for example, the prescription medicine receipt service. The authentication information here is information used to authenticate that the recipient is the user himself / herself. For example, it includes a membership number issued by a dispensing pharmacy or the like, an insurance card number, insurance card image data, a driver's license number, driver's license image data, a resident basic register card number, resident basic register card image data, a QR code or other authentication code issued by a dispensing pharmacy for receiving prescription medicine, and the user's biometric information. The user's biometric information includes face image data, voiceprint waveform data, fingerprint pattern data, and vein pattern data. The authentication information DB203E in the present embodiment is an example of storage means for storing the user's biometric information as registration information. Also, the authentication information stored in the authentication information DB203E is an example of registration information. Further, the face image data is an example of face information.

[0027] The settlement information DB203F stores, for example, the amount to be paid when receiving prescription medicine, whether payment has been made, and if payment has been made, the date and time of payment and the payment method, etc. The progress DB203G stores, for example, in association with the reception number issued by receiving a prescription, the reception time, the completion time of the prescription medicine, the name of the pharmacist who dispensed the medicine, the time when the prescription medicine was stored in the storage box 110, the name of the person in charge who stored the prescription medicine in the storage box 110, whether the authentication process has been completed, whether the explanation regarding the prescription medicine has been completed, whether the settlement process has been completed, whether the notification of the unlocking procedure has been completed, and whether the prescription medicine has been taken out.

[0028] The control unit 204 is a computer that controls the entire locker device 100 and is composed of a CPU, ROM, and RAM (not shown). Through the execution of a program, the control unit 204 functions as a prescription data receiving unit 204A, a progress management unit 204B, a prescription completion notification unit 204C, a recipient authentication unit 204D, an explanation end confirmation unit 204E, a settlement processing unit 204F, an unlocking procedure notification unit 204G, and a retrieval recording unit 204H.

[0029] The prescription data receiving unit 204A is a functional unit that receives image data of a prescription sent by a user who uses the prescription drug receiving service, for example, from the terminal 20 (see FIG. 1). When the prescription data receiving unit 204A receives the image data of the prescription, it issues a reception number, associates the image data of the prescription with the issued reception number, and stores it in the prescription DB 203B. At the time of receiving the prescription drug receiving service, information on the user's name, the place where the user wishes to receive the drug, and the date and time when the user wishes to receive the drug is also received. However, the image data of the prescription can also be read by a scanner installed at the pharmacy counter. When the prescription is received at the pharmacy counter, information on the user's name, the place where the user wishes to receive the prescription drug, and the date and time when the user wishes to receive the drug is also input through the display operation unit 201 at the counter.

[0030] The progress management unit 204B is a functional unit that manages the progress status of the reception numbers for which the withdrawal of the prescription drug has not been recorded. The progress management unit 204B cooperates with other functional units and the centralized management unit 120 (see FIG. 2) and records the change in progress in the progress DB 203G. The prescription completion notification unit 204C is a functional unit that notifies the user of the completion of the preparation of the prescription drug by the pharmacist. The notification to the user is executed, for example, after the completion of the storage of the prescription drug in the locker device 100 (see FIG. 2). In the case of this embodiment, the notification of the completion of the prescription drug includes an explanatory video, the receiving place, the notification of the payment amount, the payment method, and the like.

[0031] The recipient authentication unit 204D is a functional unit that authenticates the user who is the recipient. In the case of this embodiment, the recipient authentication unit 204D performs a two-step authentication process to prevent fraud by impersonation. The two-step authentication process refers to authentication that combines two or more types of authentication information. For example, a combination of authentication by facial image and authentication by verifying the license number, or a combination of authentication by verifying the license number and authentication by verifying vein pattern data is used. Note that the exemplified combinations are just examples, and any combination of the authentication information registered in the authentication information DB203E can be used. In the case of this embodiment, the combination of information used for authentication is instructed by the personal authentication application executed on the terminal 20 (see FIG. 1) to the user. In the recipient authentication unit 204D in this embodiment, the authentication of the user himself / herself is regarded as successful only when the authentication of both types of authentication information is successful. In other words, if either one fails in authentication, the authentication of the user himself / herself is regarded as failed. However, it does not exclude authentication using one type of authentication information. The recipient authentication unit 204D here is an example of an authentication means.

[0032] The explanation end confirmation unit 204E is a functional unit that confirms the end of viewing of the explanation video displayed on the display of the terminal 20 (see FIG. 1) used by the user who uses the prescription medicine receiving service or on the display operation unit 121 (see FIG. 4) of the centralized management unit 120 (see FIG. 4). The explanation end confirmation unit 204E confirms that the viewing of the explanation video by the user has ended when, for example, the operation of the confirmation button displayed after the end of the playback of the explanation video is detected. In the case of the prescription medicine receiving system 1 (see FIG. 1) in this embodiment, this is because it is one of the conditions for taking out the prescription medicine that the user receives an explanation from the pharmacist. Note that the terminal 20 that displays the explanation video is also an example of a display means that displays information about the article to be delivered.

[0033] In addition, the end of viewing of the explanation video can also be detected, for example, by detecting the end of the playback of the explanation video. Also, when the pharmacist explains the prescription medicine by videophone, the pharmacist inputs the end of the explanation through the display operation unit 201. Also, even when the pharmacist has finished explaining the prescription drug at the pharmacy counter, the end of the explanation is input through the display operation unit 201. Also, when the instruction manual is provided by the pharmacist, the end of viewing the explanatory video is detected through the operation of the confirmation button displayed after the reproduction of the instruction manual is finished.

[0034] The settlement processing unit 204F is a functional unit that registers the payment for the prescription drug in the settlement information DB 203F. The settlement processing may be performed by a POS terminal or the like installed at the pharmacy counter, or may be performed through a card reader 124 (see FIG. 4) or a currency processing unit 126 (see FIG. 4) provided in the centralized management unit 120 (see FIG. 2) of the locker device 100 (see FIG. 2). Also, the settlement processing can also be executed by providing the settlement institution with the number of the credit card notified by the user. In the case of this embodiment, the completion of the settlement processing is one of the conditions required for receiving the prescription drug.

[0035] The unlocking procedure notification unit 204G is a functional unit that notifies the user of the procedure for unlocking the storage box 110 (see FIG. 2) in which the prescription drug is stored. The unlocking procedure notification unit 204G in this embodiment transmits a notification to the user after confirming the completion of the payment. In the case of this embodiment, the authentication code required for unlocking is notified. However, in addition to the authentication code, for example, the location where the locker system 10 (see FIG. 1) in which the prescription drug is stored is installed, and the number attached to the door of the storage box 110 in which the prescription drug is stored may be included in the notification. The withdrawal recording unit 204H is a functional unit that records the withdrawal of the prescription drug in the progress DB 203G in cooperation with the article withdrawal management unit 130C (see FIG. 4) of the centralized management unit 120 (see FIG. 4).

[0036] <Flow of receiving prescription drugs> Hereinafter, a specific example of the flow of receiving a prescription drug using the prescription drug receiving system 1 (see FIG. 1) in this embodiment will be described. In the case of this embodiment, the recipient is the user himself / herself.

[0037] <Example 1> FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the processing flow when the user himself / herself who uses the prescription drug receiving service takes out the prescription drug from the locker device 100 outside the business hours of the dispensing pharmacy. Note that the symbol S in the figure means step. First, the user transmits the data of the prescription (hereinafter referred to as "prescription data") from the terminal 20 to the management server 200 (step 1). When the prescription delivered from the medical institution is in paper form, the user images the prescription with the imaging camera of the terminal 20 and transmits the image data obtained by the imaging to the management server 200 as the prescription data. When the prescription delivered from the medical institution is electronic data (that is, when an electronic prescription is delivered), the terminal 20 transmits the delivered electronic prescription to the management server 200.

[0038] On the screen used for receiving the prescription data, the management server 200 also receives information such as the receiving location and receiving date and time desired by the user. In addition, when the user has not visited the dispensing pharmacy, the image data of the insurance card, etc. is also notified to the management server 200 together with the prescription data. The same applies to other processes described later. When the management server 200 receives the prescription data (step 2), it notifies the terminal 20 of the reception of the prescription data. The management server 200 that has received the prescription data issues a reception number and manages the subsequent progress.

[0039] When the dispensing of the prescription drug by the pharmacist is finally completed, the management server 200 records the completion of the dispensing of the prescription drug (step 3). Along with the recording of the completion of the dispensing of the prescription drug, the information in the progress DB203G is updated. After that, when the prescription drug is stored in the storage box 110 (see FIG. 2) by an employee of the dispensing pharmacy or the like, the management server 200 records the storage of the prescription drug (step 4). Along with the recording of the storage of the prescription drug, the information in the progress DB203G is updated. When the prescription drug is stored, the management server 200 notifies the user's terminal 20 of the explanatory video of the prescription drug, the receiving location, the payment amount, etc. (step 5). As described above, an instruction manual for the prescription drug may be notified instead of the explanatory video. Further, instead of the data file of the explanatory video, an address on the network where the user-specific explanatory video is stored may be notified.

[0040] When the terminal 20 in the present embodiment receives an explanatory video or the like regarding a prescription drug from the management server 200, it activates the personal authentication application (step 6). The personal authentication application is pre-installed in the terminal 20 that uses the prescription drug receiving service. Through the execution of the personal authentication application, the terminal 20 requests the user to input biometric information. The user captures, for example, their own face image according to the guidance displayed on the display screen of the terminal 20. The face image is an example of biometric information. The acquired face image is transmitted to the management server 200 through encrypted communication. Note that the personal authentication application in the present embodiment also requests the user to input authentication information other than biometric information. For example, the input of a driver's license number or the like is requested. The terminal 20 also transmits the driver's license number or the like input by the user to the management server 200. The driver's license number or the like is an example of second identification information different from biometric information.

[0041] The management server 200 that has received biometric information such as a face image executes the personal authentication process (step 7). As described above, the personal authentication is executed by comparing the authentication information received from the terminal 20 with the pre-registered authentication information. When the personal authentication is successful, the management server 200 notifies the terminal 20 of the success of the authentication. By this notification, the viewing of the explanatory video becomes possible. The viewing of the explanatory video here is an example of the user's confirmation of information regarding an article. The terminal 20 that has received the notification of the success of the authentication activates the viewing application (step 8). Subsequently, the terminal 20 starts playing the explanatory video regarding the prescription drug.

[0042] When the user finishes viewing the explanatory video, the terminal 20 notifies the management server 200 of the completion of the viewing (step 9). As described above, the completion of the viewing is notified, for example, by the user's operation on the confirmation button displayed on the terminal 20 after the viewing of the explanatory video is completed. Upon receiving the notification of the completion of the viewing of the explanatory video, the management server 200 starts the settlement process (step 10). The settlement method desired by the user is used for the settlement process. In the case of FIG. 6, the credit card number or the like is given from the terminal 20 to the management server 200. When the settlement process is completed, the management server 200 notifies the locker device 100 of the number of the storage box 110 for which the settlement has ended. The management server 200 may notify the locker device 100 of the reception number issued upon receiving the prescription.

[0043] In addition, the management server 200 notifies the terminal 20 of the authentication code used for receiving the prescription drug (step 11). If the authentication code is generated at this time, the management server 200 notifies the generated authentication code to the locker device 100. After that, the user moves to the locker device 100 designated as the receiving location. The locker device 100 receives the number of the storage box 110 in which the prescription drug is stored from the user (step 12). The number here is the number attached to the door of the storage box 110. However, the operation performed by the user may be only an instruction for the prescription drug receiving operation.

[0044] Subsequently, the locker device 100 checks the authentication code input by the user (step 13). If the authentication code is correct, the locker device 100 unlocks the corresponding storage box 110 (step 14). After that, the locker device 100 confirms the removal of the prescription drug from the storage box 110 and notifies the management server 200 of the removal of the prescription drug. The prescription is collected, for example, by dropping it into a collection box installed around the storage box 110 from which the prescription drug has been removed or the locker device 100. In the case of an electronic prescription, after receiving a notification of the retrieval of the prescribed medicine from the locker device 100, the management server 200 executes a process of erasing the electronic prescription.

[0045] Through the above procedures, the user can receive their prescribed medicine even outside the business hours of the pharmacy. Therefore, an improvement in user satisfaction with the pharmacy can be expected. In addition, by utilizing the prescribed medicine collection service, the pharmacy can avoid extending its business hours, and can achieve an improvement in the working environment and a reduction in operating costs by suppressing labor costs and the like. In addition, it is possible to create an opportunity for users to visit a drugstore or the like where the locker device 100 is installed. As a result, it can be expected that a drugstore or the like where the locker device 100 is installed will increase its sales due to "impulse buying" by users. Note that in the management server 200 in the present embodiment, the settlement process is started after receiving a notification of the completion of viewing the explanatory video, but the timing of executing the settlement process is not limited to this. For example, the settlement process may be executed at the stage when the pharmacy accepts the prescription. Specifically, when the user transmits prescription data from the terminal 20 to the management server 200, settlement may be made by credit card or electronic money. Also, when the prescription is accepted at the pharmacy store, the settlement process may be executed on the spot. In these cases, the price for the prescribed medicine can be reliably collected. Also, the prescription form may be collected by providing a collection box near the locker device 100. Incidentally, when the electronic prescription is transmitted to the management server 200, the management server 200 may execute a process related to confirmation of receipt of the electronic prescription, or at the time of retrieving the prescribed medicine, the identification information such as a QR code included in the electronic prescription may be read to execute a process related to confirmation of receipt. By collecting the prescription form and executing the process of erasing the electronic prescription in this way, double prescribing of prescribed medicine can be prevented.

[0046] <Example 2> FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining another example of the processing flow when the user who uses the prescription drug receiving service takes out the prescription drug from the locker device 100 outside the business hours of the pharmacy. In FIG. 7, the corresponding parts to those in FIG. 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the case of Example 1, after the completion of the settlement process, an authentication code necessary for unlocking the storage box 110 (see FIG. 2) is issued and notified to the user. However, in the case of Example 2, the locker device 100 performs re-authentication for the user who has come to pick up, and omits the notification of the authentication code. That is, in the case of FIG. 7, when the viewing of the prescription drug explanation video is completed and the subsequent settlement process is also completed, the user inputs the number of the storage box 110 in which the prescription drug is stored to the display operation unit 121 (see FIG. 4) of the locker device 100 which is the pick-up location. The number of the storage box 110 is notified to the user at the time of the notification in step 5.

[0047] When the locker device 100 receives the number of the storage box 110 (step 12), it executes the authentication process (step 21). The content of the authentication executed in step 21 may be the same as or different from the content of the authentication executed in step 7. In the case of the present embodiment, the locker device 100 authenticates the user using the face image and fingerprint pattern data which are biometric information. Assuming the face image as an example of biometric information, the fingerprint pattern data is an example of second biometric information. In the case of the present embodiment, the authentication process by the locker device 100 is executed in cooperation with the management server 200. For example, the acquired face image and fingerprint information are transmitted to the management server 200, and the authentication is executed by the recipient authentication unit 204D (see FIG. 5). Note that the face image and fingerprint information do not necessarily have to be the acquired images themselves, and may be feature data extracted from the acquired images or the like. The data to be transmitted is encrypted.

[0048] The authentication result is sent from the recipient authentication unit 204D to the locker device 100. If the authentication is successful, the locker device 100 unlocks the corresponding storage box 110 (step 14). In the case of this embodiment, since it is possible to confirm that the recipient is the user himself / herself through personal authentication, the input of the authentication code is omitted. However, it is also possible to additionally require the input of the authentication code. When the input of the authentication code is also required, the authentication code is notified to the user after the execution of the settlement process. When it is confirmed that the prescription drug has been taken out from the storage box 110, the locker device 100 notifies the management server 200 of the taking out of the prescription drug. In the case of an electronic prescription, after receiving the notification of the taking out of the prescription drug from the locker device 100, the management server 200 executes the cancellation process of the electronic prescription. Through the above procedure, the user can receive his / her own prescription drug even outside the business hours of the pharmacy.

[0049] <Example 3> FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining another example of the processing flow when the user himself / herself who uses the prescription drug receiving service takes out the prescription drug from the locker device 100 outside the business hours of the pharmacy. In FIG. 8, the same reference numerals are also given to the corresponding parts as in FIG. 6. In the cases of Example 1 and Example 2 described above, the user executes personal authentication and views the explanatory video using the terminal 20. However, in the case of Example 3, the user who comes to receive the prescription drug executes personal authentication and views the explanatory video etc. at the locker device 100. In the case of Example 3, the processing of steps 1 to 3 is the same as in Example 1 and Example 2. When the storage of the prescription drug by an employee of the pharmacy etc. is recorded (step 4), the management server 200 notifies the terminal 20 and the locker device 100 of the receiving location, payment amount, etc. (step 31).

[0050] Upon receiving the notice, the user moves to the locker device 100, which is the collection location, at a convenient time, operates the display operation unit 121 (see FIG. 4), and performs an operation to receive the prescribed medicine. At this time, the locker device 100 detects the operation to receive the prescribed medicine (step 32). The locker device 100 that has detected the operation to receive the prescribed medicine reads the biometric information, etc. of the recipient through the authentication information reader 127 (see FIG. 4) (step 33). The read biometric information, etc. is transmitted from the locker device 100 to the management server 200. The biometric information, etc. is transmitted to the management server 200 in an encrypted state. The management server 200 executes the process of personal authentication (step 7). If the personal authentication is successful, the management server 200 notifies the locker device 100 of the success of the authentication. By this notification, the playback of the explanatory video in the locker device 100 becomes possible.

[0051] The locker device 100 that has received the notification of the success of the authentication activates the explanatory video playback unit 130B (see FIG. 4) and plays the explanatory video (step 34). When the locker device 100 detects the completion of the user's viewing of the explanatory video (step 35), it proceeds to the settlement process (step 36). The settlement process uses the settlement method desired by the user. The locker device 100 in the present embodiment can perform both electronic settlement and cash settlement. When the settlement process is completed, the locker device 100 notifies the management server 200 of the completion information. For example, the number of the storage box 110 for which the notification has ended and the reception number issued upon receipt of the prescription are notified to the management server 200. Note that it may be detected as the completion of the viewing upon receiving the touch of the display such as "Understood the explanation" displayed on the display unit after the user views the explanatory video.

[0052] In addition, the locker device 100 confirms the authentication code input by the user (step 37). If the authentication code is correct, the locker device 100 unlocks the corresponding storage box 110 (see FIG. 2) (step 38). After that, when the locker device 100 confirms the retrieval of the prescription drug from the storage box 110, it notifies the management server 200 of the retrieval of the prescription drug. Through the above procedure, the user can receive his / her own prescription drug even outside the business hours of the pharmacy.

[0053] <Embodiment 2> <System Configuration> FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a prescription drug receiving system 1A used in Embodiment 2. In FIG. 9, the corresponding parts to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the case of Embodiment 1, the person to whom the prescription is issued is assumed to be the person who picks up the prescription drug. However, in this embodiment, a third party who has received a request from the person is assumed to be the recipient. Therefore, in FIG. 9, a terminal 20A of Mr. B who has been requested to receive the prescription from Mr. A to whom the prescription is issued is added. The terminal 20A here is an example of a second user terminal. Also, Mr. B is an example of a second user. The management server 200A used in this embodiment is added with a function of systematically recording that the prescription drug has been transferred from Mr. B who receives the prescription drug on behalf to Mr. A who is the person himself. Note that the configuration of the locker device 100 is the same as that in Embodiment 1.

[0054] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the functional configuration of the management server 200A installed in a pharmacy or the like. In FIG. 10, the corresponding parts to those in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The management server 200A, which is a device that realizes a prescription drug receiving service outside the business hours of the pharmacy by cooperating with the locker device 100 (see FIG. 9), includes a display operation unit 201, a communication unit 202, a storage unit 203, and a control unit 204. The function unique to this embodiment is the personal receipt recording unit 204I provided in the control unit 204. The personal receipt recording unit 204I is a functional unit that receives and records a notification from the terminal 20 of the person that the prescription medicine has been received from Mr. B who received the prescription medicine on behalf. The access to the management server 200A is executed, for example, by reading a QR code or the like printed on a prescription, or by reading a QR code or the like printed on a receipt issued at the time of receiving the prescription medicine, or by reading a QR code or the like printed on a receipt or the like enclosed with the prescription medicine. If it can be confirmed that it is a record of receipt by Mr. A, it is not necessary to be a notification from the terminal 20.

[0055] In the case of this embodiment, when there is no record of the person's receipt by the personal receipt recording unit 204I, the use of the service (hereinafter referred to as "prescription third-party receipt service") that requests a third party to receive the prescription medicine is restricted from the next time onwards. Furthermore, when the prescription third-party receipt service is restricted, not only the third party who received the prescription medicine but also the request for receipt to any third party may be restricted. In the case of this embodiment, even if the prescription third-party receipt service is restricted, the use of the prescription medicine receipt service by the person is not restricted, but it is also possible to set that the use of the prescription medicine receipt service by the person is restricted.

[0056] In the case of this embodiment, the record by the personal receipt recording unit 204I is referred to by the prescription data receiving unit 204A and is used to determine whether the use of the prescription third-party receipt service is possible at the time of receiving the prescription. Note that the conditions for restricting the prescription third-party receipt service may be determined by the operator of the system or the dispensing pharmacy or the like that uses the system. Examples of conditions for restricting the third-party receipt service of prescription drugs include, for example, the existence of even one instance of unrecorded receipt by the patient himself / herself. In this case, the period for restricting service use can be indefinite, but it may also be, for example, six months from the date and time of service use when the unrecorded receipt occurred. Here, the date and time of use may be, for example, the date and time when the prescription was received, or the date and time when the acceptance period for the record of receipt by the patient himself / herself expired. In addition, examples of conditions for restricting the third-party receipt service of prescription drugs include the case where the number of unrecorded receipts by the patient himself / herself within a predetermined period is detected to exceed the upper limit value.

[0057] <Flow of receiving prescription drugs> Hereinafter, a specific example of the flow of receiving prescription drugs using the prescription drug receiving system 1A (see FIG. 9) in the present embodiment will be described. The recipient in the present embodiment is a third party who has received a request from the user himself / herself. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of the processing flow when a third party who has been requested by the user himself / herself to receive a prescription drug takes out the prescription drug from the locker device 100 outside the business hours of the dispensing pharmacy. In FIG. 11, the corresponding parts to those in FIG. 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals. As a prerequisite for using the third-party receipt service of prescription drugs, the information necessary for the user himself / herself to authenticate the third party who will receive the drug on his / her behalf is pre-registered in the authentication information DB203E (see FIG. 5) in the storage unit 203 that constitutes the management server 200A.

[0058] In the case of the present embodiment, the user transmits prescription data and the desire for third-party receipt to the management server 200A from the terminal 20 (step 41). At this stage, the information identifying the third party who will receive the prescription drug on behalf is also transmitted from the terminal 20 to the management server 200A. Also in the case of the present embodiment, when the management server 200A receives the prescription data (step 2), it notifies the terminal 20 of the receipt of the prescription data. The management server 200A that has received the prescription data issues a receipt number and manages the subsequent progress. Next, the management server 200A executes settlement processing (step 42). In the case of FIG. 11, electronic settlement is assumed for the settlement processing. However, when the user visits the dispensing pharmacy, cash settlement is also possible.

[0059] When the settlement processing is completed, the terminal 20 starts the browsing application (step 8) and starts playing the explanatory video regarding the prescription drug. After that, when the user finishes browsing the explanatory video, the terminal 20 notifies the management server 200A of the completion of browsing (step 9). Note that, in response to the user touching the display such as "Understood the explanation" displayed on the display unit after browsing the explanatory video, it may be detected as the completion of browsing. In the case of the present embodiment, since the person who visits the locker device 100 is a third party who has received a request from the user, the processing required for the user himself / herself who has transmitted the prescription data is executed in the first half of the processing procedure.

[0060] Eventually, when the dispensing of the prescription drug by the pharmacist is completed, the management server 200A records the completion of the dispensing of the prescription drug (step 3). In the case of FIG. 11, the recording of the completion of the dispensing of the prescription drug is executed after the notification of the completion of browsing. However, the dispensing by the pharmacist and the browsing of the explanatory video by the user are originally executed independently. Therefore, the order of step 9 and step 3 is arbitrary. Also, when the prescription drug is stored in the storage box 110 (see FIG. 2) by an employee of the dispensing pharmacy or the like, the management server 200A records the storage of the prescription drug (step 4).

[0061] When the receipt of the prescription drug becomes possible, the management server 200A notifies the terminal 20A of the third party that receives the prescription drug on behalf of the receipt location, authentication code, etc. (step 43). Note that, as a mechanism for transmitting the authentication code required for picking up the prescription drug, it is also possible to adopt a mechanism of transmitting it to the terminal 20 of the user himself / herself, or a mechanism of transmitting it to both the terminal 20 of the user himself / herself and the terminal 20A of the third party may also be adopted. In addition, when only the user himself / herself is notified of the receiving location and authentication code information, the information on the receiving location and authentication code is transmitted from the user himself / herself to a third party.

[0062] When a third party who receives the prescription medicine on behalf of the user moves to the locker device 100 which is the receiving location, the display operation unit 121 (see FIG. 4) is operated to perform an operation for receiving the prescription medicine. At this time, the locker device 100 detects the receiving operation of the prescription medicine (step 44). The locker device 100 that has detected the receiving operation of the prescription medicine reads the biometric information etc. of the recipient through the authentication information reader 127 (see FIG. 4) (step 45). The recipient here is the third party designated by the user in step 41. Therefore, the locker device 100 reads the biometric information of the third party designated by the user as the biometric information of the recipient. In addition, when a plurality of biometric information is required, a plurality of biometric information of the third party is read, and when biometric information and information other than biometric information are required, the biometric information of the third party and information other than biometric information are read.

[0063] The read biometric information etc. is transmitted from the locker device 100 to the management server 200A. The management server 200A executes identity authentication by comparing the received biometric information etc. with the biometric information of the third party registered in advance (step 7). When the identity authentication is successful, the management server 200A notifies the locker device 100 of the success of the authentication. In the case of this embodiment, the locker device 100 notified of the success of the authentication confirms the authentication code input by the recipient (step 46).

[0064] If the authentication code input by the recipient is correct, the locker device 100 unlocks the corresponding storage box 110 (step 47). After that, the locker device 100 confirms the taking out of the prescription medicine from the storage box 110 and notifies the management server 200A of the taking out of the prescription medicine. When receiving the notification of the taking out of the prescription medicine, the management server 200A enters a state of waiting for the notification of the record of receiving the prescription medicine from the user himself / herself.

[0065] The user who has received the prescription drug from a third party transmits from the terminal 20 to the management server 200A that he / she has received the prescription drug from a third party (step 48). In the case of this embodiment, the management server 200A eliminates impersonation by a third party who has received the prescription by combining with identification information unique to the terminal 20 used for the notification that the prescription drug has been received from a third party. From the viewpoint of eliminating impersonation, identity authentication may also be required in the process of step 48. After that, the management server 200A records the receipt by the user (step 49). The recording here is recorded in, for example, the progress DB 203G (see FIG. 5). By recording the receipt by the user, the management of the progress started by receiving the prescription data ends.

[0066] Through the above procedure, the user can receive his / her own prescription drug through a third party even outside the business hours of the pharmacy. In the case of FIG. 11, although the user himself / herself is handling the settlement process, it is also possible for the third party who receives the prescription drug to perform the settlement process with the locker device 100. In that case, for example, the settlement process may be executed at the stage when the authentication of the third party who is the recipient is completed. Note that the management server 200 in this embodiment starts the settlement process after receiving the notification of the completion of viewing the explanatory video, but the timing of executing the settlement process is not limited to this. For example, the settlement process may be executed at the stage when the pharmacy accepts the prescription. Specifically, when the user transmits the prescription data from the terminal 20 to the management server 200, settlement may be made by credit card or electronic money. Also, when the prescription is accepted at the pharmacy store, the settlement process may be executed on the spot. In these cases, the price for the prescription drug can be surely collected. Also, the original prescription paper may be collected by providing a collection box near the locker device 100. Incidentally, when the electronic prescription is transmitted to the management server 200, the management server 200 may execute a process for confirming the receipt of the electronic prescription, or when the prescription drug is taken out, the identification information such as the QR code included in the electronic prescription may be read to execute a process for confirming the receipt. By recovering the original prescription paper of the prescription drug and executing the cancellation process of the electronic prescription in this way, double prescription of the prescription drug can be prevented.

[0067] <Embodiment 3> In the above-described embodiment, the prescription drug is assumed to be the object of receipt outside business hours. In this embodiment, a system that enables the out-of-hours sale of Class I medical drugs for which a pharmacist's explanation is obligatory at the time of purchase will be described. Currently, a person who wishes to purchase a Class I medical drug needs to visit a pharmacy during the pharmacy's business hours. However, due to the diversification of work styles, there are also people who find it difficult to stop by a pharmacy during the pharmacy's business hours. Although there are stores that are open until late at night, compared to their business hours, the pharmacist's resident time is limited and the pharmacy's business hours are set short. Therefore, the current sales form imposes inconvenience on some purchasers. Also, the pharmacy side is losing sales opportunities. Therefore, in this embodiment, a system that enables the sale of Class I medical drugs even outside the pharmacy's business hours will be described.

[0068] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a pharmaceutical sales system 1B used in Embodiment 3. In FIG. 12, the corresponding parts to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by corresponding reference numerals. The pharmaceutical sales system 1B shown in FIG. 12 includes a locker device 100 for storing Class I medical drugs, a purchase information input terminal 400, a terminal 500 operated by a pharmacist, and the Internet 30 for realizing communication between these. The purchase information input terminal 400 in this embodiment is not dedicated to the sale of Class I medical drugs, but is also used for the sale of Class II medical drugs and Class III medical drugs.

[0069] The pharmaceutical sales system 1B shown in Fig. 12 is an example of a system configuration in which the purchase information input terminal 400 and the locker device 100 are prepared separately. However, all of the functions described later may be integrated into one device. Examples of this type of device include vending machines. Also in this embodiment, the locker device 100 used in Embodiments 1 and 2 is used. As described above, the locker device 100 is also provided with a settlement function and a function for receiving an explanation from a pharmacist. In this embodiment, however, the payment for Class I pharmaceuticals and the explanation from the pharmacist are executed via the purchase information input terminal 400. Thus, in the case of a configuration in which the terminal for payment and receiving an explanation from the pharmacist is prepared separately from the locker device 100, it is also possible to substitute the user's terminal 20 (see Fig. 1), such as a smartphone, for the purchase information input terminal 400.

[0070] The pharmacist terminal 500 operated by the pharmacist is provided at the pharmacy headquarters or the like. The pharmacist terminal 500 is operated by a pharmacist who is stationed at the headquarters or the like for the purpose of explaining Class I pharmaceuticals and prescription drugs outside of the pharmacy's business hours. A camera 501 is attached to the upper part of the display screen of the pharmacist terminal 500 shown in Fig. 12. Also, the headset 502 worn by the pharmacist is connected to the pharmacist terminal 500 through a cable. An earphone and a microphone are attached to the headset 502. The voice and video of the pharmacist explaining the contents of the medicine are transmitted from the pharmacist terminal 500 to the purchase information input terminal 400 via the Internet 30. On the other hand, the voice and video of the purchaser who operates the purchase information input terminal 400 are transmitted from the purchase information input terminal 400 to the terminal 500 operated by the pharmacist via the Internet 30. The pharmacist terminal 500 here is also used in the above-described Embodiments 1 and 2.

[0071] Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of the external configuration of the purchase information input terminal 400. The purchase information input terminal 400 shown in Fig. 13 has a vertically long box shape, and a display operation unit 401 is arranged at the upper part of its front surface. The display operation unit 401 is configured by, for example, a touch panel. On the display operation unit 401, buttons for selecting pharmaceuticals to be purchased, videos of pharmacists explaining the contents of the medicine to those wishing to purchase Class I pharmaceuticals, a check screen for seeking confirmation of the pharmacist's explanation, a screen for settlement, etc. are displayed. Of course, the display operation unit 401 is also used for inputting the operations of the purchasers. In the case of the purchase information input terminal 400 shown in FIG. 13, the display unit and the operation unit are integrated in the display operation unit 401, but the display unit and the operation unit can also be provided separately.

[0072] Below the display operation unit 401, a coin insertion slot 402, a bill insertion slot 403, a cancel button 404, a receipt and ticket outlet 405, a bill payout slot 406, a coin return slot 407, and a card reader 408 are provided. Also, on the upper surface of the box-shaped purchase information input terminal 400, a camera 409 for imaging purchasers wishing to purchase Class I pharmaceuticals is installed. In the case of FIG. 13, the camera 409 is installed on the upper surface of the purchase information input terminal 400, but it can also be attached around the operation display unit 401. The purchase information input terminal 400 may be in the form of, for example, a ticket vending machine.

[0073] FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of the functional configuration of the purchase information input terminal 400. The purchase information input terminal 400 shown in FIG. 14 has a display operation unit 401, a cancel button 404, a speaker 410, a card reader 408, a printer 411, a currency processing unit 412, a camera 409, a communication unit 413, a storage unit 414, and a control unit 415. Incidentally, the cancel button 404 is used for canceling the payment. The speaker 410 is used for outputting the voice of the pharmacist explaining Class I pharmaceuticals. The card reader 408 is used for electronic settlement using a card recording electronic money information or a credit card. The card reader 408 in the present embodiment also supports settlement using a smartphone. The printer 411 is used for printing receipts that are proof of payment, tickets with QR codes for retrieving purchased pharmaceuticals, and the like. Receipts, tickets, etc. printed by the printer 411 are discharged from the outlet 405 (see FIG. 13).

[0074] The currency processing unit 412 manages the operations of the coin insertion slot 402, the bill insertion slot 403, the bill dispensing outlet 406, and the coin return slot 407. The communication unit 413 is used for communication with the pharmacist terminal 500 (see FIG. 12) operated by the pharmacist. The storage unit 414 is composed of, for example, a hard disk drive or a non-volatile semiconductor memory. Data related to settlement processing and the like are stored in the storage unit 414. The control unit 415 is a computer that controls the entire purchase information input terminal 400 and is composed of a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM (not shown). Through the execution of programs, the control unit 415 functions as an after-hours sales management unit 415A and a settlement processing unit 415B.

[0075] The after-hours sales management unit 415A is a function that activates outside of the pharmacy's business hours. When the after-hours sales management unit 415A receives an application for the purchase of Class I pharmaceuticals through the display operation unit 401 outside of the pharmacy's business hours, it manages a series of processes for selling Class I pharmaceuticals. Specifically, it executes processes such as establishing communication with the pharmacist terminal 500 (see FIG. 12) operated by the pharmacist, requesting confirmation from the purchaser regarding the pharmacist's explanation, and transferring to the settlement process. Note that the after-hours sales management unit 415A may be provided with a function to inquire about the inventory in the locker device 100 (see FIG. 12) of Class I pharmaceuticals that are the targets of purchase. The settlement processing unit 415B executes cash settlement and electronic settlement. Specifically, when the settlement is completed, the settlement processing unit 415B causes a receipt or a ticket to be output through the printer 411.

[0076] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a ticket 600 that is required when receiving Class I pharmaceuticals. In the case of the ticket 600 shown in FIG. 15, the name of the pharmacy is printed on the topmost line, and the issue date and time 602 are printed on the line below it. Also, information 603 regarding the purchased Class I pharmaceuticals is printed on the line below the issue date and time 602, and further below that, a QR code 604 that can be read by the locker device 100 (see FIG. 12) where the purchased Class I pharmaceuticals are stored is printed. Note that the code required for receipt may also be a barcode or a character string. In addition to these, on the ticket 600 shown in FIG. 15, a sentence 605 explaining the operations necessary for receiving Class I pharmaceuticals is printed.

[0077] Hereinafter, an example of the processing operations executed in the pharmaceutical sales system 1B will be described using FIGS. 16 and 17. FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of the flow of processing when taking out Class I pharmaceuticals purchased outside the business hours of the pharmacy from the locker device 100. Note that the symbol S in the figure means step. FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the transition of the screen displayed on the display operation unit 401 (see FIG. 13) of the purchase information input terminal 400 (see FIG. 13) outside the business hours.

[0078] In the case of this embodiment, the purchase information input terminal 400 stops operating during the business hours of the pharmacy. For this reason, the purchase information input terminal 400 determines whether the current time is outside the business hours (step 51). While a negative result is obtained in step 51, the purchase information input terminal 400 repeats the determination. When a positive result is obtained in step 51, the purchase information input terminal 400 displays an image of the pharmaceutical to be sold in button form on the display operation unit 401 (step 52). The display here corresponds to screen 700 in FIG. 17. On screen 700, the content 701 of the operation required of the prospective purchaser and the images 702 of the salable pharmaceuticals are arranged. In the case of FIG. 17, there are six images of pharmaceuticals. Of course, the number of images 702 of the pharmaceuticals to be displayed is an example. Also, when the number of salable pharmaceuticals is more than the number that can be displayed on screen 700, the images of the pharmaceuticals displayed can be changed by a scroll bar. Also, in order to reduce the number of images of the pharmaceuticals to be displayed, the display may be switched according to symptoms or pharmaceutical classifications.

[0079] Next, the purchase information input terminal 400 determines whether a pharmaceutical has been selected on the screen of the display operation unit 401 (step 53). While a negative result is obtained in step 53, the purchase information input terminal 400 waits for the selection of a pharmaceutical by the prospective purchaser. When an affirmative result is obtained in step 53, the purchase information input terminal 400 determines whether the selected pharmaceutical is a Class I pharmaceutical (step 54). Note that when only Class I pharmaceuticals are handled, the process of step 54 can be skipped. When a negative result is obtained in step 54, the purchase information input terminal 400 proceeds to the settlement process of step 59. When an affirmative result is obtained in step 54, the purchase information input terminal 400 notifies that an explanation by a pharmacist is required for the purchase and confirms the intention to purchase (step 55). Note that when the intention to purchase is confirmed, the purchase information input terminal 400 proceeds to the process of calling the terminal operated by the pharmacist. On the other hand, when the intention to purchase is not confirmed, the purchase information input terminal 400 returns to the display of screen 700.

[0080] For the confirmation of the intention to purchase, screen 710 in FIG. 17 is used. On screen 710, an explanation that an explanation by a pharmacist is required for the purchase of the selected pharmaceutical and a sentence 711 including an inquiry about the intention to purchase are displayed. Also, on screen 710, a button 712 to be operated when purchasing and a button 713 to be operated when canceling the purchase are displayed. When the operation of the button 712 is detected, the display of the display operation unit 401 switches to the screen 720. On the screen 720, a sentence 721 indicating that a pharmacist is being called is displayed. At the time of connection, information such as the name of the Class I medical drug to be purchased is also transmitted to the pharmacist terminal 500 on the pharmacist side. Eventually, the display of the display operation unit 401 switches to the screen 730 of the assigned pharmacist.

[0081] After this, a conversation-style explanation of the medical drug is conducted between the purchaser on the purchase information input terminal 400 side and the pharmacist on the pharmacist terminal 500 side. When the explanation of the medical drug is finished, or at the timing of confirmation, the pharmacist requests confirmation of the purchaser on the purchase information input terminal 400 side regarding the explanation of the medical drug. This operation is monitored on the pharmacist terminal 500. When the communication with the purchase information input terminal 400 is started, the pharmacist terminal 500 shown in FIG. 16 determines whether or not the pharmacist has instructed the display of the check screen (step 56). While a negative result is obtained in step 56, the pharmacist terminal 500 repeats the determination. On the other hand, when an affirmative result is obtained in step 56, the pharmacist terminal 500 requests the purchase information input terminal 400 to display the check screen (step 57).

[0082] The purchase information input terminal 400 that has received the request from the pharmacist terminal 500 displays the check screen 740 on the display operation unit 400. In the case of the check screen 740 shown in FIG. 17, there are three items 741 displayed for confirmation. A check box is provided for each item. Since the check screen 740 shown in FIG. 17 is before checking, the check box is empty. In addition, on the check screen 740, an explanation 742 requesting input of a check to the check box is also displayed. The check screen 740 may be prepared on the purchase information input terminal 400 side, or may be transmitted from the pharmacist terminal 500 to the purchase information input terminal 400 each time an explanation is given. In the purchase information input terminal 400, it is monitored whether all the check boxes are checked. That is, the purchase information input terminal 400 determines whether the check is completed (step 58).

[0083] While a negative result is obtained in step 58, the purchase information input terminal 400 repeats the determination. On the other hand, if an affirmative result is obtained in step 58, the purchase information input terminal 400 executes a settlement process (step 59). When the settlement process is completed, the purchase information input terminal 400 prints a ticket or the like and outputs it to the outlet 405 (see FIG. 13) (step 60). After that, the purchaser brings the output ticket to the locker device 100 and has it read by the code reader 123 (see FIG. 4). That is, the locker device 100 reads the QR code (step 61). This QR code contains information such as the name of the purchased Class I pharmaceutical product. The locker device 100 unlocks the storage box 110 in which the Class I pharmaceutical product read from the QR code is stored (step 62).

[0084] If the purchaser takes out the purchased Class I pharmaceutical product from the unlocked storage box 110, the series of purchase processes ends. By the above procedure, the purchaser can purchase Class I pharmaceutical products at a convenient time even outside the pharmacy's business hours. This enhances the convenience for the purchaser, and it is also expected to bring benefits in attracting customers to the store side where the locker device 100 capable of receiving Class I pharmaceutical products is arranged. Also, in the pharmacy, there is no need to extend the business hours, and it is possible to reduce labor costs and increase sales opportunities. Note that the above-described pharmaceutical sales system 1B does not include a procedure for authenticating the purchaser of Class I pharmaceutical products, but if the combination of inputting a membership number and reading a membership card is used, it is possible to identify the person. Of course, it is also possible to include a procedure for authenticating the person as in Embodiment 1 etc. In addition, in this embodiment, the operation outside the business hours of the pharmacy has been described, but it is not necessarily limited to outside the business hours. For example, it may be the case when the pharmacist is absent. In this case, instead of determining whether the current time is outside the business hours, it is determined whether the pharmacist is absent. This determination may be made based on the pharmacist's shift schedule, or specific operations may be performed by the pharmacist or other employees. Also, it may be the time when the pharmacist is always present. Also, in this embodiment, it has been assumed that the printer 411 outputs the ticket, but it is not limited to this. For example, if the purchase information input terminal 400 and the locker device 100 are network-connected, when the payment by the purchaser is completed, the corresponding locker may be automatically unlocked. Furthermore, in the case of a form such as a vending machine in which the purchase information input terminal 400 and the locker device 100 are integrated, when the payment by the purchaser is completed, the corresponding pharmaceutical product may be ejected from the ejection port.

[0085] <Other Embodiments> As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above-described embodiments. It is clear from the description of the claims that those obtained by making various changes or improvements to the above-described embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0086] For example, in the case of the above-described embodiment, the authentication process of the user himself / herself and the authentication process of a third party who receives the prescription drug on behalf are executed by the management server 200 (see FIG. 1) or the management server 200A (see FIG. 9), but these authentication processes may be executed within the locker device 100. When the authentication process is executed within the locker device 100, biometric information or the like regarding the user himself / herself or a third party who receives the prescription drug on behalf used for authentication may be transmitted in advance from the management server 200 or the like to the locker device 100. The locker device 100 that has completed the authentication of the user or the like erases the biometric information or the like used for authentication from within the device.

[0087] In the foregoing embodiments, the case where the dispensing pharmacy operates the locker system 10 (see FIG. 1 etc.) has been described. However, the management server 200 etc. is provided on the cloud network, and the dispensing pharmacy etc. may be users of the cloud service. Also, the installer of the locker device 100 does not necessarily have to be a dispensing pharmacy.

Explanation of Signs

[0088] 1, 1A... Prescription drug receiving system, 1B... Pharmaceutical sales system, 10... Locker system, 20, 20A... Terminal, 30... Internet, 100... Locker device, 110... Storage box, 120... Central management unit, 200, 200A... Management server, 204A... Prescription data receiving unit, 204B... Progress management unit, 204C... Prescription completion notification unit, 204D... Receiver authentication unit, 204E... Explanation end confirmation unit, 204F... Settlement processing unit, 204G... Unlocking procedure notification unit, 204H... Withdrawal recording unit, 204I... Personal receipt recording unit

Claims

1. A connection unit that connects, via communication, a user terminal held by a user and a terminal operated by a pharmacist or other store clerk at a dispensing pharmacy in order to provide an explanation to the user regarding the received medicine; An explanation completion confirmation unit for confirming completion of the explanation; A medicine receiving system comprising the above.

2. The medicine receiving system according to claim 1, further comprising a storage unit that stores whether or not the explanation has been completed.

3. The medicine receiving system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that information indicating completion of the explanation is input through the terminal operated by a pharmacist or other store clerk at a dispensing pharmacy.

4. The medicine receiving system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that information indicating completion of the explanation is input through the user terminal held by the user. ​ ​ ​

Images