With computers, scanners, and other devices located outside of the hoods, staff at Ballad Health were frequently forced to move in and out of the sterile field, increasing the risk of contamination and leading to citations during surveys. The equipment setup itself was often pieced together with cameras purchased from eBay or repurposed computers, resulting in inefficient processes that slowed down compounding and introduced more opportunities for error. Pharmacy leaders recognized that they needed a standardized, compliant, and streamlined solution that could improve efficiency while ensuring the highest levels of patient safety across their network. 

Germfree’s Smarthood™ delivered the integrated solution they were searching for. Designed specifically for IV workflow, Smarthood™ brings together every essential tool—barcode scanner, gravimetric scale, label printer, camera, and computer—directly inside the hood. This eliminates the need to break the sterile barrier and allows staff to complete the entire compounding process in one streamlined space. The system also introduces intelligent safety checks that catch potential errors in real time, while ergonomic design improvements, like optimized camera placement and even a built-in trash chute, keep the workspace efficient and stress-free. With Smarthood™, Ballad Health pharmacists and technicians gained a reliable, standardized workflow that enhances both accuracy and speed. 

The impact of Smarthood™ has been transformative across Ballad Health’s network. Pharmacy teams now save five to ten minutes on each preparation, freeing time to focus on higher-value patient care. Built-in technology ensures accuracy at every step, giving staff greater confidence and reducing the risk of errors. Compliance issues tied to sterile barrier breaks have been virtually eliminated, creating a safer, more efficient compounding environment.  

For Ballad Health, standardizing on Smarthood™ was an easy decision. The technology not only streamlined pharmacy operations but also elevated patient safety, staff satisfaction, and overall efficiency. By partnering with Germfree, Ballad Health has proven that innovation in sterile compounding translates directly into better outcomes for patients—and a stronger future for healthcare delivery.

Watch the mini-documentary to hear directly from the team at Ballad about their experience with Smarthood. Click here to learn more about Smarthood by Germfree.