DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreen Co. is offering third-party mobile application developers an application programming interface (API) that enables them to integrate the drug chain’s prescription refill technology.
Walgreens said Monday that developers who have scanning capability in their apps can incorporate the Walgreens Prescription API to allow smartphone and other mobile device users to order a prescription refill by scanning the bar code on a Walgreens prescription bottle.
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Healthspek is one third-party app that has integrated the Walgreens Prescription API. |
The new API marks the first time such technology is available to mobile app developers focused on health and wellness, according to Walgreens.
It’s also the second API that the chain has offered to outside developers. In July, Walgreens launched its QuickPrints SDK (software development kit) and API, which enabled third-party developers to integrate in-store photo services for their apps.
"People continue to become increasingly engaged with their mobile devices and use the technology to help make their day-to-day lives easier," Abhi Dhar, e-commerce chief technology officer at Walgreens, said in a statement. "By incorporating the Walgreens Prescription API, mobile app developers are providing users with an easy way to refill prescriptions and help them properly take their medication."
More information on the Prescription API can be found on the Walgreens Developer Portal at developer.walgreens.com. The drug chain said the Walgreens Prescription API has been adopted by several app developers, including Healthspek and Danike Inc.’s PocketPharmacist.
"We are excited about our relationship with Walgreens," stated Randy Farr, president of Healthspek. "Walgreens leadership position in technology and consumer empowerment fits perfectly with Healthspek’s message to consumers, ‘Own Your Chart!’."
Michael Guren, founder and chief executive officer of Danike, commented, "PocketPharmacist is thrilled to offer iOS users both the convenience and ease of refilling their Walgreens prescriptions. We believe this adds to our goal of helping people better understand and manage their medications."
