COLUMBIA, SC: A New Way to Snack at Prisma Health’s Children’s Hospital
Have you ever wished that grabbing a quick bite to eat was as easy as walking into a store and walking out with your favorite snack? Well, that dream is now a reality for the dedicated staff and visitors at Prisma Health’s Richland campus in Columbia, South Carolina. The hospital recently unveiled a new store right inside Prisma Health Children’s Hospital that operates entirely on Amazon’s “Just Walk Out” technology.
Convenience at Your Fingertips
Imagine this: you’re a doctor or nurse juggling a busy day, and lunchtime is cutting into your valuable time with patients. With the opening of this new store on September 26th, healthcare workers can now experience hassle-free dining without having to wait in long lines. Regina Brown, the Community Engagement Manager for Prisma Health Midlands, expressed her excitement about the new innovation, stating, “Our team members have such a limited amount of time for lunch and dinner. To be able to walk in here, scan your card, grab your food, and go right back out is going to be a tremendous help.”
A Seamless Shopping Experience
Now, let’s talk about how this high-tech store works. When you walk in, all you have to do is scan your payment card of choice. Sounds simple enough, right? Well, the store is equipped with nearly 60 cameras on the ceiling, which expertly track the items you pick up or put back. As you exit the store, those cameras automatically charge your card, making the entire process smooth and efficient. No more fumbling with cash or waiting for a cashier to ring up your items!
Open 24/7 for Your Convenience
One of the standout features of this store is its round-the-clock accessibility. For staff working late shifts or for guests visiting at odd hours, this store provides a convenient option to grab something to eat—whether it’s a healthy snack or some comfort food. Michael Bundy, the CEO of Prisma Health Midlands Market, highlighted how important it is for healthcare workers to take a moment for themselves during their hectic shifts. “If you’re at our hospital and it’s three in the morning, and you need 15 minutes to take a break… this is gonna give you that option, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,” he said.
A Collaborative Effort to Promote Well-being
Prisma Health has partnered with Morrison Healthcare, its food service provider, to ensure that the store is stocked with a variety of food and drink options to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. From crisp salads to hearty sandwiches, the offerings will be designed to promote both health and satisfaction.
What’s Next?
The store inside Prisma Health Children’s Hospital is part of a broader trend, being the third Amazon retail site to open within a healthcare facility in the nation. As more institutions seek to enhance the well-being of their staff and visitors, we can expect to see similar innovations popping up elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
As this new shopping experience gears up to serve the rich community of healthcare professionals and patients, it promises to become a vital support for those working tirelessly in the health sector. Regina Brown remarked, “Come get your food, they’ll be ready, they’re open, it was easy. I just scanned my card and out the door I went.” With such a positive reception, it’s clear that Prisma Health is paving the way for future innovations that prioritize convenience and well-being!
