Omnicell (NSDQ:OMCL) and Fresenius Kabi announced today that they are collaborating on new technology for managing controlled substances.
The collaboration aims to provide U.S. hospitals and health systems with innovative new pharmacy technology designed to support safety and efficiency in dispensing controlled substances in patient care areas.
Omnicell designs a controlled substance dispenser (CSD) for high-volume, automated single-dose dispensing that helps pharmacies better manage controlled substances, reduce diversion and save nursing time. The design for one dose at a time aims to eliminate the need for countbacks and decrease the time required to resolve discrepancies, giving nurses more time for direct patient care.
The company designed new cassettes for the CSD specifically for Fresenius Kabi’s Simplist MicroVault prefilled syringes to offer more flexibility with medication supply chain and enhanced controlled substance management initiatives. Omnicell CSD will accommodate MicroVault for a range of low-dose narcotic medications, including morphine, hydromorphone and fentanyl.
Fresenius Kabi’s syringes are manufacturer-prepared in the U.S. with a 24-month shelf life.
“Omnicell is committed to addressing the biggest challenges in pharmacy care delivery through technology,” Omnicell VP of Product Management for Point-of-Care Solutions Nish Parekh said in a news release. “Through innovative collaborations with healthcare leaders like Fresenius Kabi, we’re delivering the solutions designed to help our customers manage controlled substances, reduce diversion, optimize inventory, and enhance clinical workflows to support optimal care and patient safety.”
The companies said their relationship and offering represents a step toward the vision of the “Autonomous Pharmacy,” a plan to develop a zero-error, fully automated medication management infrastructure.
“Fresenius Kabi is committed to medication safety and the responsible use of controlled substances,” Fresenius Kabi USA VP of Marketing Angie Lindsey said. “The combination of Omnicell’s Controlled Substance Dispenser automation workflow with Fresenius Kabi Simplist MicroVault prefilled syringes will offer healthcare providers advanced tools and technology to achieve these aims.”
