Ask The Expert: How to Choose Between the KL1 and KL1Plus for Pharmacy Automation 

Precision and efficiency are paramount in the world of retail pharmacy automation. With a firm commitment to advancing pharmacy operations, Capsa Healthcare offers two standout options: the industry standard KL1 and the innovative KL1Plus, part of Capsa’s Kirby Lester line of Rx filling devices.

These devices epitomize Capsa Healthcare’s dedication to understanding the needs of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians and providing the right tools for their unique needs. After all, every pharmacy has its own workflow, which is why Capsa’s Kirby Lester line of automated counters provides distinct options. 

To help you navigate between these choices, we’ve brought in the expertise of James Fletcher, CPhT – Product Manager at Capsa Healthcare. In this comprehensive guide, Fletcher delves into each model’s critical differences, functionalities, and operational benefits.

KL1: Fast, Streamlined Simplicity   

The smallest, simplest, and fastest tablet counter is Capsa Healthcare’s KL1. With dimensions of 14.6″ high, 12.5″ deep, and 5.6″ wide, its compact design allows it to fit into crowded pharmacy workspaces or narcotics vaults easily.

KL1 Tablet Counter

Other essential features and benefits the KL1 brings to your pharmacy operations are: 

  • Prescription Counting: The KL1 is the industry standard for accurately counting various tablets and capsules. Prescription filling is fast and accurate. Perfect for 90-day fills, superior to any other type of counting technology for handling 180, 270, 360 pills. 
  • Narcotics Inventory Management: Quickly do narcotics inventory. Regulatory compliance is mandatory, and the KL1 ensures accuracy. 
  • Bulk Counting: Save valuable time when doing bulk-counting tasks.  

KL1Plus: Enhanced Capability with a “Brain” 

Pharmacy users have often described the KLPlus as “a tablet counter with a brain”. With a full PC, interfacing to your pharmacy system, and a database of more than 100,000 drug images, the KL1Plus is far from just a counter. It saves the pharmacy time and money with advanced record-keeping functions while reducing the opportunities for prescription filling errors.  

This multifunctional tablet and capsule counter combines the simplicity, speed, and reliability of the KL1 tablet counter with advanced smart functions.

KL1Plus

Let’s explore how the KL1Plus enhances your pharmacy operations: 

  • Prevent Rx Filling Errors: Computerized scan-verification safeguards against prescription filling errors. Patient safety is paramount. 
  • Verify and count all filled orders: Scan-verification and fast tablet and capsule counting for 100% of orders is a breeze. The KL1Plus also verifies the package quantity of unit-of-use orders, including ointments and blister packs. Like the KL1, the KL1Plus is also the right system for 90-day fills, superior to any other type of counting technology for handling 180, 270, 360 pills.  
  • Count and Record Narcotics Inventory: Absolute accuracy is critical for your narcotics inventory. Regulations leave no room for error. 
  • Prescription Archiving: The KL1Plus archives every dispensed prescription for up to 10 years. Your pharmacy has a valuable historical record for any potential customer inquiry.  
  • Predictable Process: All pharmacy technicians follow the same predictable, repeatable process while filling prescriptions on the KL1Plus. 

“One of the strongest differentiators about the KL1Plus is that it maintains accuracy and streamlines the workflow of pharmacies in such an efficient way,” Fletcher says. 

Critical Differences Between the KL1 and KLPlus 

Both tablet counters handle the necessary function of counting quickly (especially 90-day fills and stock bottle inventory). But there are critical differences to consider. Some pharmacy managers may initially consider upfront costs. This is a factor, of course, but it shouldn’t be the most compelling factor when deciding. Instead, it should be what the pharmacy’s needs are, or in some cases, what “pain points” the staff is trying to address. 

Look-alike Stock Bottles 

Computerized scan verification is the most significant feature the KL1Plus offers over the KL1. A technician can scan the barcode on a patient’s prescription label and then scan the corresponding stock bottle or package. The KL1Plus then verifies a match to eliminate the chance of wrong medication, strength, or package size. 

Was This a 30- or a 90-Count?  

The KL1 and KL1Plus are excellent counting devices, but the KL1Plus, with scan verification, ensures the right quantity is being counted for each prescription. Count too few or too many, and the KL1Plus will signal an error. The KL1Plus also can hold shorted counts in a queue for later adjustment.

PMS Interfacing a Priority 

The KL1 is simple to operate with no connections or outside data hookup. Thus, there is no pharmacy management system interfacing. The KL1Plus interfaces with most PMS systems for a seamless transfer of information.

Operating a Manual C-II Log 

Pharmacies can use a KL1 to count bulk stock bottles for inventory keeping, but no recording is on the device. Pharmacies using the KL1Plus can take advantage of the C-II log. The inventory management feature on the KL1Plus tracks from wholesaler receipt, on-shelf availability, and technician activities while filling prescriptions. “The human error element can be prevalent and preventable. I hear this all the time from customers that hand-writing in a log, for instance, is a source for a potential problem,” Fletcher says.

Customer Disputes Over Controlled Meds  

The KL1 does not keep a record of every fill, while the KL1Plus keeps a record of every fill for up to 10 years. Its archive shows who filled the prescription, when, what medication, the exact quantity, and if a double count was performed for a control. With this data, pharmacies can address any customer concerns.

Need To Track Who Does What  

The KL1 does not require any sign-on. Just step up to the counter and go. But for pharmacies desiring to track activity by user, the KL1Plus has the advantage of a customizable biometric finger-scan sign-in.

Another Set Of Eyes 

The KLPlus helps every pharmacy tech follow the same predictable, repeatable process when filling prescriptions. This is especially important for new hires or relief staff learning the pharmacy’s workflow. 

Operational cost savings can accrue using the KLPlus because you save hours of manual record-keeping. You can use those hours to provide more personal attention and education to your most valuable asset — your customers. 

Fletcher understands every pharmacy has its own needs. Some can be resolved with a low-tech approach, and some need a higher level. “By understanding the unique challenges faced by pharmacies today, Capsa Healthcare provides customizable options that optimize operations and enhance patient safety and service quality. Our commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions with our Kirby Lester line of counting technology ensures every pharmacy can find a system that best suits its needs.” 

Your Questions Answered 

Fletcher comments that he has heard customers ask these common questions. In response, here is how he would answer. Explore the common questions our customers ask. For pricing and expert guidance, contact Capsa Healthcare’s experts.

Which model can help with inventory counts?

KL1 Tablet Counter

The KL1 makes counting stock bottles easy and accurate, but the KL1Plus can keep a record of an inventory session, and also interfaces with systems like Datarithm inventory management platform. 

Which model is easier to operate? 

If you’re used to touchscreen technology, the KLPlus makes using advanced functions a breeze. If you prefer a simpler, more mechanical approach, the KL1 is for you. 

Which model is easier to maintain? 

Both are simple to clean daily. The KLPlus does have a customizable prompt to let the staff know when it’s time to perform cleaning.  

I have limited space available. Which model has the smallest footprint? 

The KL1 and KLPlus are both compact, about the same footprint as a plastic counting tray.  

What types of tablets can these machines count? 

The KL1 and KLPlus automated pharmacy tablet counters can count almost any tablet or capsule, with exceptions being clear gelcaps. 

Making the Best Choice for Your Pharmacy Operation 

Your specific needs should drive your choice between Capsa Healthcare’s KL1 and KL1Plus. Both reliable tablet counters have a small footprint, are easy to maintain, and are efficient and accurate. 

The KL1 requires less upfront investment while offering simplicity and easy operation. It’s the fastest tablet counter on the market, making it an excellent choice for routine counting tasks in busy pharmacies.  

However, the KL1Plus offers verification and so much more. Your pharmacy’s capabilities increase with advanced features and error prevention.  

Hence the importance of providing options that work best, says Fletcher. “Capsa Healthcare stands at the forefront of automation design, offering an unparalleled array of options tailored to meet the diverse needs of pharmacy workflows. With our Kirby Lester product line, Capsa Healthcare has redefined precision and reliability, offering solutions that blend seamlessly into any pharmacy setting.” 

If you need help deciding which model is the best prescription filling system for your pharmacy’s operations, speak with one of Capsa Healthcare’s experts now. 

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