The dispenser is a battery operated device which is loaded with medication by pharmacists, and programmed to release the pills at set times.
Over 250 people took part in the trial which concluded on 31 March 2012.
The savings break down to approximately £1,700 per person over a six month period; most of which came from a reduction in the number of home visits required to remind people to take their medication, and a drop in hospital admissions.
Of the dispenser users questioned, 96% overwhelming agreed it was effective in reminding them to take their medication, and as a result improved their health and made them more independent.
They were also unanimous in their support for continuing to use the device with 88% saying it improved the quality of their lives.
Matt Bowsher, Head of Adult Social Care, Communications and Strategy at Improvement and Efficiency West Midlands (IEWM), said: “The pilot proves the pill dispenser is highly effective in helping vulnerable adults remember to take their medication. Failure to take medication properly costs the NHS and social services heavily and more importantly eradicates quality of life.”
“The majority of local authorities and Primary Care Trusts that took part in the scheme have secured funding to mainstream the Project. We hope the findings will encourage others to follow their example.”
Full details of the pilot and the results can be found on the IEWM website.
No comments:
Post a Comment