Originally posted June 2009
West Midlands JIP plans to carry out the first large scale pilot of an automated pill dispenser.
Nine local authorities and Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) have signed up to the trial which will be launched in September.
The device automatically reminds users to take pills when the built in alarm rings. Programmed to release tablets at specific times, the battery operated container is preloaded with tablets and securely locked by a pharmacist.
The pilot builds on research carried out by Birmingham University which recommended the dispensers should be considered further by local authorities and PCTs.
Researchers found it is already benefiting the elderly, individuals with early dementia and Parkinson’s disease, and could potentially help others including people with learning difficulties and mental health problems.
Recognising its potential for promoting independence and personalisation of care, the JIP will pilot the device to find out who it would be most appropriate for, its effectiveness and safety, and the cost implications for making it available on a wider scale.
The pilot will run for six months after which a final report will be published. It is a joint project between the JIP, Boots UK, independent pharmacies, and PivoTell (link) the makers of the device; and supported by funding from the Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG).
No comments:
Post a Comment