South Dakota, known for its breathtaking landscapes and tight-knit communities, is increasingly becoming a hub for technological innovation. This transformation is beautifully encapsulated in the story of Shivansh Rastogi, a third-year finance student at the University of South Dakota (USD). Rastogi is not just absorbing knowledge in the classroom but actively applying his insights to real-world challenges in South Dakota, bridging the gap between traditional business operations and cutting-edge technology.
Rastogi’s journey took a significant turn when he partnered with Davis Pharmacy, a cornerstone of South Dakota communities for nearly 146 years. The pharmacy, owned by Matt Lavin, has been an integral part of local life, offering personalized care to its loyal clientele. However, the evolving landscape of healthcare demands efficiency without compromising on human touch—an area where technology can lend a helping hand.
Enter Elevaze, an AI-powered call-handling system developed by Rastogi, which was recently implemented at Davis Pharmacy. This system is a breakthrough in how independent pharmacies can enhance operations while preserving the essence of customer care. Elevaze handles an array of tasks: answering calls in a natural, conversational tone, managing prescription refill requests, routing calls, and even handling after-hours messages. These features ensure pharmacists at Davis Pharmacy can devote more time to face-to-face patient interactions, a significant win for personal healthcare delivery.
The implementation of Elevaze at Davis Pharmacy marks a pioneering step for similar institutions nationwide. Lavin expressed his optimism, saying, “Having Elevaze is a great addition to the pharmacy. This is my first time in my 30 years of being a pharmacist that I feel comfortable having a system helping with our phones. I am really looking forward to what Elevaze can do for businesses like mine, and I truly believe that Shivansh has created a tool that will touch and benefit many industries over time.”
The success story of Elevaze resonated beyond the walls of Davis Pharmacy and reached the audience of the AI Edge Summit in Sioux Falls, where Rastogi showcased this innovation. This event underscored the impact of applied learning fostered at USD, an institution that encourages students to translate classroom knowledge into tangible community benefits. Rastogi noted, “USD creates an environment where you’re encouraged to take ideas outside the classroom and turn them into solutions that help real communities. The Davis Pharmacy partnership is a perfect example of how implementing an idea positively affected a community. That experience changes how you think as a builder, because you’re designing for trust, consistency and real human outcomes, not just technical performance.”
South Dakota, often celebrated for its majestic natural wonders like the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore, is now also being recognized for nurturing future business leaders like Rastogi. His work reflects the state’s spirit of innovation and adventure, qualities that are as much a part of South Dakota’s identity as its vast prairies and vibrant history.
Matt Lavin
As South Dakota continues to embrace technological advancements, the achievements of Rastogi and Elevaze set a precedent for how other businesses in the state can adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace. This narrative is a testament to the impact of practical education, community collaboration, and the undying spirit of innovation.
Shivansh Rastogi’s partnership with Davis Pharmacy is more than a successful implementation of AI in healthcare; it’s a beacon of change showing South Dakota’s commitment to modernization while respecting traditional values. Through such initiatives, South Dakota not only enhances its technological capabilities but also strengthens its community ties, ensuring it remains a state where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously.
For more information or inquiries, contact Alissa Matt via email at contact@sodak.news.