There have been many advances in technology, packaging solutions and behavioral science to improve medication adherence. Here are some of those advancements and interventions.
Medication synchronization:
Aligning a patient’s medication refills is extremely useful, as it easily reduces some barriers and burdens. Maximizing the use of this strategy need ongoing changes in insurance payment models. Some success has been witnessed through state legislation advocacy.
Bioingestible sensors:
This is the most modern and advanced approach to track the actual consumption of medication through capsules and tablets with built-in sensors. Known as the digital pills they are innovative because, they can register information on what the patient has ingested. These data don’t lie, and they lead to transparent discussion with patients. It helps in making appropriate and accurate clinical decisions regarding therapy needs.
Medication packaging and reminder technologies:
Bottle caps and pillboxes have integrated Bluetooth technology surveillance to relay data on when the containers were opened back to providers. Inhalers are snapped with devices that measure use. While others have integrated alarms that remind the patient to take medication.
Medication dispensers are programmed to prevent patients from taking medicines late or too soon. Nowadays, dispensing medications in multimed packaging is becoming popular. It is also called adherence packaging.
Motivational interviewing:
Targeted patient interviews help providers understand patient’s specific barriers to medication adherence. Specialized training in motivational interviewing (MI) helps clinicians get this information in a caring and collaborative method. MI is a communication tool that positively impacts patient outcomes. It is a person-centered method to guide and strengthen motivation for change.