New from AmerisourceBergen is the AutoMed Efficiency Pharmacy R800 robotic dispensing system, which can fill more than 200 labeled prescriptions an hour. The R800 replaces the FastFill200 system that was introduced three years ago. The R800 is 20% faster but has the same footprint, while holding 220 large-capacity canisters — 21 more than the FastFill200. The 220 medications account for approximately 65% of the total prescriptions in a typical pharmacy.

When canisters need to be refilled, the robot will park up to seven partial or unfilled vials and continue filling the next order. The system maintains normal operation until canisters can be replenished.

The R800 targets pharmacies with an average of 400 to 1,000-plus prescriptions a day, though it can accommodate even greater peak volumes. It can be used as a stand-alone unit or as an order management system when combined with the AutoMed Efficiency WorkPath workflow management system.

AmerisourceBergen has also introduced a real-time portal on the company’s web site for information about everything from new items and product recalls to legislative updates. The Link allows AmerisourceBergen customers to create their own personal web pages and customize what they view in order to filter out what isn’t relevant.

“We are working with manufacturers to ensure the timely delivery of information,” says Fred Stern, VP of consumer product development.