To reduce waiting time and out of pocket expenses, Tamil Nadu has planned to install ATM-like drug dispensing machines at government hospitals. 

The machines will help people suffering from chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension procure medications. In the pilot phase, the machines will be installed at government hospitals and primary health centres. The machine will be programmed to read barcodes on prescriptions and dispense medicines accordingly. The health secretary Dr. Radhakrishnan has said that while the machine will be very beneficial to patients, it will also be extremely helpful in keeping record of patients with chronic diseases. 

Information for the article was sourced from Times of India. Read the original here.