CA2306674A1 - Medication tracking system - Google Patents
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- CA2306674A1 CA2306674A1 CA002306674A CA2306674A CA2306674A1 CA 2306674 A1 CA2306674 A1 CA 2306674A1 CA 002306674 A CA002306674 A CA 002306674A CA 2306674 A CA2306674 A CA 2306674A CA 2306674 A1 CA2306674 A1 CA 2306674A1
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- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
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- G16—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATION FIELDS
- G16H—HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS, i.e. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR THE HANDLING OR PROCESSING OF MEDICAL OR HEALTHCARE DATA
- G16H20/00—ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance
- G16H20/10—ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to drugs or medications, e.g. for ensuring correct administration to patients
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Abstract
A medication tracking system for the identification and tracking of medication having an identifier comprising of a tracking device having a scanning means, a display means, and a communication means, and method for using the system.
Description
MEDICATION TRACKING SYSTEM
Field of the Invention This invention relates in general to tracking medication and more particularly to a medication tracking and identification system and a method of using the medication tracking system.
to Background of the Invention As people age, their requirements for medication and their need for information about how their medications work and interact with other drugs increases.
Moreover as medical advances allow for people to live longer, these advances often require that the person take some form of medication or drug. In general, the majority of these people are elderly, perhaps visually impaired and are often on multiple medications for a variety of medical conditions. It is not uncommon for one person to be taking five different types of medications at one time.
2o There are a number of concerns with taking a large number of different types of medications. One of the most important includes the possibility of one or more drugs not being compatible with another. Although we often rely on our physician to determine whether or not a medication is appropriate and safe to take, more and more patients have a variety of physicians for their different ailments, and therefore the physicians do not often know all the different medications the patient is on.
Another problem with elderly patients is that they often have difficulty keeping track of all the different medications, the doses, and the times for taking the medications. As such, patients may forget to take their medication, take the wrong 3o dose, or even take the wrong type of medication. These problems may occur not just with the elderly, but with the mentally challenged, the visually impaired, care givers that use the tracking system to track the patient's use of a drug (e.g. are they taking their medication? when? how many?), or non-medical individuals.
Field of the Invention This invention relates in general to tracking medication and more particularly to a medication tracking and identification system and a method of using the medication tracking system.
to Background of the Invention As people age, their requirements for medication and their need for information about how their medications work and interact with other drugs increases.
Moreover as medical advances allow for people to live longer, these advances often require that the person take some form of medication or drug. In general, the majority of these people are elderly, perhaps visually impaired and are often on multiple medications for a variety of medical conditions. It is not uncommon for one person to be taking five different types of medications at one time.
2o There are a number of concerns with taking a large number of different types of medications. One of the most important includes the possibility of one or more drugs not being compatible with another. Although we often rely on our physician to determine whether or not a medication is appropriate and safe to take, more and more patients have a variety of physicians for their different ailments, and therefore the physicians do not often know all the different medications the patient is on.
Another problem with elderly patients is that they often have difficulty keeping track of all the different medications, the doses, and the times for taking the medications. As such, patients may forget to take their medication, take the wrong 3o dose, or even take the wrong type of medication. These problems may occur not just with the elderly, but with the mentally challenged, the visually impaired, care givers that use the tracking system to track the patient's use of a drug (e.g. are they taking their medication? when? how many?), or non-medical individuals.
Prior art medication tracking systems have been devised to address some of the aforenoted problems. For example, United States Patent No. 5,995,938 issued to Whaley on November 30, 1999 relates to a medication compliance system having an output device and a computer in communication with the output device.
United States Patent No. 5,946,659 was issued on August 31, 1999 to Lancelot, et al. and relates to a multiple user computerized clinical care system and method of using it, and includes the use of a group of terminals communicating with a central computer system for sending and receiving patient information for storage and retrieval l0 purposes.
United States Patent No. 6,021,392 was issued on February 1, 2000 to Lester, et al. and relates to a system in which a drug distribution center operates a computer software drug inventory management program in electronic communication with a health care provider computer software program for drug and health care supply distribution to patients. The system incorporates low unit dose measure drug and supply packaging including bar codes for automatically tracking drug information.
Thus a medication tracking and identification system which allows for the user 2o to access their complete medical healthcare profile and other types of medical and healthcare information from their home to determine whether a medication is compatible with what they are already taking, as well as informing the user of when to take their medication, what to take, and how much to take is desirable.
Summary of the Invention An object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide an improved medication tracking system and more particularly a medication tracking and identification system for medication having an identifier and a method of using the system.
United States Patent No. 5,946,659 was issued on August 31, 1999 to Lancelot, et al. and relates to a multiple user computerized clinical care system and method of using it, and includes the use of a group of terminals communicating with a central computer system for sending and receiving patient information for storage and retrieval l0 purposes.
United States Patent No. 6,021,392 was issued on February 1, 2000 to Lester, et al. and relates to a system in which a drug distribution center operates a computer software drug inventory management program in electronic communication with a health care provider computer software program for drug and health care supply distribution to patients. The system incorporates low unit dose measure drug and supply packaging including bar codes for automatically tracking drug information.
Thus a medication tracking and identification system which allows for the user 2o to access their complete medical healthcare profile and other types of medical and healthcare information from their home to determine whether a medication is compatible with what they are already taking, as well as informing the user of when to take their medication, what to take, and how much to take is desirable.
Summary of the Invention An object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide an improved medication tracking system and more particularly a medication tracking and identification system for medication having an identifier and a method of using the system.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a medication tracking system for the identification and tracking of medication comprising of a tracking device having a scanning means adapted to scan and read medication identifiers, a display means and a communication means. A storing means may have a random access memory for storing the healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database containing medication identifiers.
Preferably the tracking device may receive healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles from the storing means through the communication o means. The healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles may only be accessed by the user activating a security means which then allows for the viewing of the healthcare information on the display means.
The scanned medication identifier may also be sent through the communication means for a compatibility check and cross-referencing with the database of medication identifiers in the storing means. An approval or rejection of the medication identifier may then be sent to the tracking device through the communication means and viewed on the display means.
2o Conveniently, the medication tracking system may be used in a method for tracking and identifying medication. The method may comprise of accessing and receiving healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles from a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of medication identifiers using a security means and a communication means of a tracking device. The tracking device may have a scanning means for scanning and reading the medication identifiers and a display means for displaying the healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles.
3o The scanned medication identifier may be sent through the communication means to the database of medication identifiers in the storing means. Approval or rejection of the medication identifier may be sent to the tracking device through the communication means and viewed on the display means.
Advantages of the present invention are: a cost effective device for tracking and identifying medication; provides a complete medical profile of the user;
especially helpful for elderly users, the visually impaired, the mentally challenged and non-medical individuals; improves quality of life as it allows for greater independence (especially for the blind); reduces hospital admission costs; reduces the possiblity of death due to drug interaction; improves understanding of medications especially 1o special instructions and timing needs; helps prevent taking the wrong medication, taking someone else's medication, taking the wrong dose, taking outdated medication, taking incompatible medication, and scheduling of medications; special instructions for different medications; and provides security for each user's individual profile.
t5 Brief Description of the Drawings A detailed description of the preferred embodiments are provided herein below by way of example only and with reference to the following drawings, in which:
Figure 1 in a front view, illustrates the tracking device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 in a schematic view, illustrates the medication tracking system in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 in a schematic view, illustrates the medication tracking system scanning a medication for input into the system and for confirmation that the medication is appropriate.
Figure ~ in a schematic view, illustrates the medication tracking system conducting a compatibility check.
Preferably the tracking device may receive healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles from the storing means through the communication o means. The healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles may only be accessed by the user activating a security means which then allows for the viewing of the healthcare information on the display means.
The scanned medication identifier may also be sent through the communication means for a compatibility check and cross-referencing with the database of medication identifiers in the storing means. An approval or rejection of the medication identifier may then be sent to the tracking device through the communication means and viewed on the display means.
2o Conveniently, the medication tracking system may be used in a method for tracking and identifying medication. The method may comprise of accessing and receiving healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles from a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of medication identifiers using a security means and a communication means of a tracking device. The tracking device may have a scanning means for scanning and reading the medication identifiers and a display means for displaying the healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles.
3o The scanned medication identifier may be sent through the communication means to the database of medication identifiers in the storing means. Approval or rejection of the medication identifier may be sent to the tracking device through the communication means and viewed on the display means.
Advantages of the present invention are: a cost effective device for tracking and identifying medication; provides a complete medical profile of the user;
especially helpful for elderly users, the visually impaired, the mentally challenged and non-medical individuals; improves quality of life as it allows for greater independence (especially for the blind); reduces hospital admission costs; reduces the possiblity of death due to drug interaction; improves understanding of medications especially 1o special instructions and timing needs; helps prevent taking the wrong medication, taking someone else's medication, taking the wrong dose, taking outdated medication, taking incompatible medication, and scheduling of medications; special instructions for different medications; and provides security for each user's individual profile.
t5 Brief Description of the Drawings A detailed description of the preferred embodiments are provided herein below by way of example only and with reference to the following drawings, in which:
Figure 1 in a front view, illustrates the tracking device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 in a schematic view, illustrates the medication tracking system in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 in a schematic view, illustrates the medication tracking system scanning a medication for input into the system and for confirmation that the medication is appropriate.
Figure ~ in a schematic view, illustrates the medication tracking system conducting a compatibility check.
Figure 5 in a schematic view, illustrates the medication tracking system confirming the medication is taken.
In the drawings, preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood that the description and drawings are only for the purpose of illustration and as an aid to understanding, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention.
to Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment Refernng to Figures 1 - 5 there is illustrated in a front plan view and a schematic views, a medication tracking system 10 for the identification and tracking of medication in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
The medication tracking system 10 includes a tracking device 12 comprising of a scanning means 14, a display means 16, a security means 17 and a communication means 18. The scanning means 14 is adapted to read a medication identifier 26.
The medication tracking system 10 further includes a storing means 20 that has a random access memory 22 for storing healthcare information and personalized healthcare 2o profiles 28 and a database 24 containing medication identifiers 26.
The tracking device 12 may be used to receive healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles 28 from the storing means 20 via the communication means 18. The storing means 20 and more particularly the database 24, may be accessed by a variety of healthcare professionals such as doctors and pharmacists so that the personalized healthcare profile 28 is developed for a particular individual or user. A variety of information may be stored including, but not limited to, a personalized identifier 30, a complete medical history of the user and the medication being used both over-the-counter and by prescription. The tracking device 12 is also programmed by the storing means 20 for the acceptance of scanned medication identifiers 26 or bar codes.
In the drawings, preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood that the description and drawings are only for the purpose of illustration and as an aid to understanding, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention.
to Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment Refernng to Figures 1 - 5 there is illustrated in a front plan view and a schematic views, a medication tracking system 10 for the identification and tracking of medication in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
The medication tracking system 10 includes a tracking device 12 comprising of a scanning means 14, a display means 16, a security means 17 and a communication means 18. The scanning means 14 is adapted to read a medication identifier 26.
The medication tracking system 10 further includes a storing means 20 that has a random access memory 22 for storing healthcare information and personalized healthcare 2o profiles 28 and a database 24 containing medication identifiers 26.
The tracking device 12 may be used to receive healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles 28 from the storing means 20 via the communication means 18. The storing means 20 and more particularly the database 24, may be accessed by a variety of healthcare professionals such as doctors and pharmacists so that the personalized healthcare profile 28 is developed for a particular individual or user. A variety of information may be stored including, but not limited to, a personalized identifier 30, a complete medical history of the user and the medication being used both over-the-counter and by prescription. The tracking device 12 is also programmed by the storing means 20 for the acceptance of scanned medication identifiers 26 or bar codes.
Once the personalized healthcare profile 28 is established in the storing means 20, the user may access this information or any healthcare information at any time by activating the security means 17 and contacting the storing means 20. The security means 17 may be further defined as an access code 31 and a personalized identifier 30.
Compatibility determinations for medications may be conducted by the user scanning the medication identifier 26 into the tracking device 12 using the scanning means 14. The scanned medication identifier 26 may be sent through the to communication means 18 to the database 24 of medication identifiers 26 in the storing means 20. The scanned medication identifier 26 may be matched against the medication identifiers 26 in the database 24 to determine whether the medication represented by the scanned medication identifier 26 is approved for consumption by the user. The approval or rejection of the scanned medication identifier 26 is relayed t5 to the tracking device 12 via the communication means 18 and displayed for the user on the display means 16.
The personalized healthcare profile 28 may be accessed by the user at any time in the tracking device 12 by activating the access code 31 and the personalized 2o identifier 30. The access code 31 and the personalized identifier 30 allows each user of the tracking device 12 to have the added benefit of security for his/her healthcare information and therefore avoids any confusion with other users of the tracking device 12 and their medication. The personalized healthcare profile 28 may be viewed on the display means 16.
A variety of healthcare information may be stored in the tracking device 12 and accessed by the user. The healthcare information may include the user's medical history, prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, medication profiles, allergies, donor card information, living will information, dosage information for 3o particular medicines, general information concerning the medication (so as to educate the user) outdated medications, special instructions or directions for particular medications and medication scheduling information including when to take a medication, when to discontinue, and parameters for missed dose alarms.
The display means 16 may be further defined as an interactive display screen 32 that allows the user to view requested information and choose options that include, but are not limited to: canceling or clearing a request, viewing reminder notices such as when to take a medication and how much to take, reviewing the user's personalized healthcare profile 28, reviewing the results of scanned medication identifier 26 and the compatibility of medications.
to The interactive display screen 32 may also include a clock 33 that allows the user to program the tracking device 12 for scheduling of medications. The interactive display screen 32 will remind the user both verbally and in written form when a dose of medication is scheduled to be taken.
t5 The interactive display screen 32 may also include an alarm 34. The alarm 34 may be set according to the individual's medication schedule which will notify the user if a medication was not taken at the appropriate time. Once the correct dose of medication has been taken, the user may release the alarm 34 and the tracking device 20 12 will register the date and time that the medication was taken. The alarm 34 will also sound if a medication is incompatible according to the compatibility determination from the scanned medical identifier 26, or if a scanned medication identifier is not accepted for that particular user.
25 The interactive display screen 32 may further comprise of an audio module such as a speaker to allow someone who is visually impaired to access healthcare information in the tracking device 12. More specifically, the audio module 36 will also indicate what each medication is used for, the usual dose for each medication and the scheduling of each medication. This information may also be viewed on the 30 interactive display screen 32. The tracking device 12 may be adapted for printing capability to allow for printing of reports on a user's personalized healthcare profile 28 or on requested healthcare information.
_g_ The scanning means 14 maybe further defined as a scanner 38. The scanner 38 allows for the medication identifier 26 to be read into the tracking device 12. The medication identifier 26 may be further defined as a bar code 40 so that each medication has its individual bar code 40. The bar codes 40 correspond to the bar codes 40 for the medications in the database 24, thereby allowing for the determination of compatibility between the medicine the user has at home, and what is approved for consumption in the user's personalized healthcare profile 28.
1o The storing means 20 may be defined as a computer server 42 that communicates with the tracking device 12 via the communication means 18 or communication line. More specifically, the communication means 18 or line may be a conventional telephone line, cable or have satelite capability thereby allowing the tracking device 12 to act as an Internet. Moreover, the Internet capability allows for the user to communicate with the computer server 42 whenever they wish to and also allows for updates. The computer server 42 may be located in a secure location and may be approved for access by various institutions such as hospitals in case the user requires hospital care. More specifically, the tracking device 12 may be located in emergency rooms allowing doctor's to have immediate access to the user's 2o personalized healthcare profile 28. The tracking device 12 may be portable in a smaller unit and also used worldwide with the implementation of international adaptors.
Another preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a method of tracking and identifying medication. The method comprises of accessing and receiving healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles 28 from a storing means 20 that has a random access memory 22 for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare information and a database 24 of medication identifiers 26, using a security means 17 and a communication means I 8 of a tracking 3o device 12. The tracking device 12 includes a scanning means 14 for scanning and reading medication identifiers and a display means 16. The personalized healthcare profiles and healthcare information may be viewed on the display means 16.
The security means 17 may further comprise of an access code 31 and personalized identifiers 30 as discussed above. In operation, the user would key into the tracking device 12, the access code 31 and then a personalized identifier 30, so that the personalized identifier 30 is "matched" to the access code 31.
Everytime the user utilizes the tracking device 12, the access code 31 for that user must be entered so that only that user's personalized healthcare profile 28 and medication will be accessed.
More specifically, the user's personalized identifier 30 is stored in the storing means 20 and applied by way of bar code tags to all medication (i.e.
prescription, non-prescription, etc.) taken by the user.
When the user wants to add a new drug to their personalized healthcare profile, for example an over-the-counter medication, the user accesses the tracking device 12, by keying in their access code 31 and scanning the bar code 40 of the medication and their personalized identifier 30. The user then keys in their access code 31 and the medication is then stored in the storing means 20 as that user's medication. The user may also key in other information such as scheduling 2o information and the like.
The user can access the tracking device 12 to find out information about a medication by keying in the access code 31 and personalized identifier 30 and then scan the medication identifier 26 that is on the medication into the tracking device 12.
The medication identifier 26 is relayed to the database 24 for comparison with the user's personalized healthcare profile 28. Upon identification of the medication, scheduling information or the like may be reviewed by the user.
The method of tracking and identifying medication may further comprise of 3o sending the scanned medication identifier 26 through the communication means 18 to the database 24 of medication identifiers 26 in the storing means 20. A cross-checking between the scanned medical identifier 26 and those contained in the database 24 determines the approval or rejection of medication for the user.
The approval or rejection is sent from the database 24 through the communication means 18 to the tracking device 12 where it is viewed on the display means 16 of the tracking device 12. The method of tracking and identifying medication may be further defined utilizing the elements described above for the medication tracking system 10.
Other variations and modifications of the invention are possible. All such modifications or variations are believed to be within the sphere and scope of the to invention as defined by the claims appended hereto.
Compatibility determinations for medications may be conducted by the user scanning the medication identifier 26 into the tracking device 12 using the scanning means 14. The scanned medication identifier 26 may be sent through the to communication means 18 to the database 24 of medication identifiers 26 in the storing means 20. The scanned medication identifier 26 may be matched against the medication identifiers 26 in the database 24 to determine whether the medication represented by the scanned medication identifier 26 is approved for consumption by the user. The approval or rejection of the scanned medication identifier 26 is relayed t5 to the tracking device 12 via the communication means 18 and displayed for the user on the display means 16.
The personalized healthcare profile 28 may be accessed by the user at any time in the tracking device 12 by activating the access code 31 and the personalized 2o identifier 30. The access code 31 and the personalized identifier 30 allows each user of the tracking device 12 to have the added benefit of security for his/her healthcare information and therefore avoids any confusion with other users of the tracking device 12 and their medication. The personalized healthcare profile 28 may be viewed on the display means 16.
A variety of healthcare information may be stored in the tracking device 12 and accessed by the user. The healthcare information may include the user's medical history, prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, medication profiles, allergies, donor card information, living will information, dosage information for 3o particular medicines, general information concerning the medication (so as to educate the user) outdated medications, special instructions or directions for particular medications and medication scheduling information including when to take a medication, when to discontinue, and parameters for missed dose alarms.
The display means 16 may be further defined as an interactive display screen 32 that allows the user to view requested information and choose options that include, but are not limited to: canceling or clearing a request, viewing reminder notices such as when to take a medication and how much to take, reviewing the user's personalized healthcare profile 28, reviewing the results of scanned medication identifier 26 and the compatibility of medications.
to The interactive display screen 32 may also include a clock 33 that allows the user to program the tracking device 12 for scheduling of medications. The interactive display screen 32 will remind the user both verbally and in written form when a dose of medication is scheduled to be taken.
t5 The interactive display screen 32 may also include an alarm 34. The alarm 34 may be set according to the individual's medication schedule which will notify the user if a medication was not taken at the appropriate time. Once the correct dose of medication has been taken, the user may release the alarm 34 and the tracking device 20 12 will register the date and time that the medication was taken. The alarm 34 will also sound if a medication is incompatible according to the compatibility determination from the scanned medical identifier 26, or if a scanned medication identifier is not accepted for that particular user.
25 The interactive display screen 32 may further comprise of an audio module such as a speaker to allow someone who is visually impaired to access healthcare information in the tracking device 12. More specifically, the audio module 36 will also indicate what each medication is used for, the usual dose for each medication and the scheduling of each medication. This information may also be viewed on the 30 interactive display screen 32. The tracking device 12 may be adapted for printing capability to allow for printing of reports on a user's personalized healthcare profile 28 or on requested healthcare information.
_g_ The scanning means 14 maybe further defined as a scanner 38. The scanner 38 allows for the medication identifier 26 to be read into the tracking device 12. The medication identifier 26 may be further defined as a bar code 40 so that each medication has its individual bar code 40. The bar codes 40 correspond to the bar codes 40 for the medications in the database 24, thereby allowing for the determination of compatibility between the medicine the user has at home, and what is approved for consumption in the user's personalized healthcare profile 28.
1o The storing means 20 may be defined as a computer server 42 that communicates with the tracking device 12 via the communication means 18 or communication line. More specifically, the communication means 18 or line may be a conventional telephone line, cable or have satelite capability thereby allowing the tracking device 12 to act as an Internet. Moreover, the Internet capability allows for the user to communicate with the computer server 42 whenever they wish to and also allows for updates. The computer server 42 may be located in a secure location and may be approved for access by various institutions such as hospitals in case the user requires hospital care. More specifically, the tracking device 12 may be located in emergency rooms allowing doctor's to have immediate access to the user's 2o personalized healthcare profile 28. The tracking device 12 may be portable in a smaller unit and also used worldwide with the implementation of international adaptors.
Another preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a method of tracking and identifying medication. The method comprises of accessing and receiving healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles 28 from a storing means 20 that has a random access memory 22 for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare information and a database 24 of medication identifiers 26, using a security means 17 and a communication means I 8 of a tracking 3o device 12. The tracking device 12 includes a scanning means 14 for scanning and reading medication identifiers and a display means 16. The personalized healthcare profiles and healthcare information may be viewed on the display means 16.
The security means 17 may further comprise of an access code 31 and personalized identifiers 30 as discussed above. In operation, the user would key into the tracking device 12, the access code 31 and then a personalized identifier 30, so that the personalized identifier 30 is "matched" to the access code 31.
Everytime the user utilizes the tracking device 12, the access code 31 for that user must be entered so that only that user's personalized healthcare profile 28 and medication will be accessed.
More specifically, the user's personalized identifier 30 is stored in the storing means 20 and applied by way of bar code tags to all medication (i.e.
prescription, non-prescription, etc.) taken by the user.
When the user wants to add a new drug to their personalized healthcare profile, for example an over-the-counter medication, the user accesses the tracking device 12, by keying in their access code 31 and scanning the bar code 40 of the medication and their personalized identifier 30. The user then keys in their access code 31 and the medication is then stored in the storing means 20 as that user's medication. The user may also key in other information such as scheduling 2o information and the like.
The user can access the tracking device 12 to find out information about a medication by keying in the access code 31 and personalized identifier 30 and then scan the medication identifier 26 that is on the medication into the tracking device 12.
The medication identifier 26 is relayed to the database 24 for comparison with the user's personalized healthcare profile 28. Upon identification of the medication, scheduling information or the like may be reviewed by the user.
The method of tracking and identifying medication may further comprise of 3o sending the scanned medication identifier 26 through the communication means 18 to the database 24 of medication identifiers 26 in the storing means 20. A cross-checking between the scanned medical identifier 26 and those contained in the database 24 determines the approval or rejection of medication for the user.
The approval or rejection is sent from the database 24 through the communication means 18 to the tracking device 12 where it is viewed on the display means 16 of the tracking device 12. The method of tracking and identifying medication may be further defined utilizing the elements described above for the medication tracking system 10.
Other variations and modifications of the invention are possible. All such modifications or variations are believed to be within the sphere and scope of the to invention as defined by the claims appended hereto.
Claims (20)
1. A medication tracking system for the identification and tracking of medication comprising:
(a) a tracking device having a scanning means for scanning and reading identifiers associated with said medication, a display means, and a communication means;
(b) a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of said medication identifiers;
wherein said tracking device receives healthcare information and said personalized healthcare profiles from said storing means through said communication means by a user activating a security means and viewing said healthcare information and said personalized healthcare profiles on said display means.
(a) a tracking device having a scanning means for scanning and reading identifiers associated with said medication, a display means, and a communication means;
(b) a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of said medication identifiers;
wherein said tracking device receives healthcare information and said personalized healthcare profiles from said storing means through said communication means by a user activating a security means and viewing said healthcare information and said personalized healthcare profiles on said display means.
2. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said healthcare information is selected from the group consisting of said user's medical history, personal identifiers, prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, medication profiles, donor card information, living will information, medical dosage information and medicine scheduling information.
3. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 2 wherein said display means is an interactive display screen.
4. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 3 wherein said interactive display screen further comprises an alarm and a clock.
5. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 4 wherein said interactive display screen further comprises an audio module.
6. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 5 wherein said scanning means is a scanner built into said tracking device.
7. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 6 wherein said medication identifier is a bar code for each medication that corresponds to said medication identifiers in said database.
8. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 7 wherein said storing means is a computer server.
9. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 8 wherein said communication means is a communication line to said computer server.
10. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said security means further comprises an access code and a personalized identifier.
11. A medication tracking system for the identification and tracking of medication comprising:
(a) a tracking device having a scanning means for scanning and reading identifiers associated with said medication, a display means, and a communication means;
(b) a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of said medication identifiers;
wherein said scanned medication identifier is sent through said communication means for approval or rejection to said database of medication identifiers in said storing means; said approval or rejection of said medication identifier sent to said tracking device through said communication means and viewed on said display means.
(a) a tracking device having a scanning means for scanning and reading identifiers associated with said medication, a display means, and a communication means;
(b) a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of said medication identifiers;
wherein said scanned medication identifier is sent through said communication means for approval or rejection to said database of medication identifiers in said storing means; said approval or rejection of said medication identifier sent to said tracking device through said communication means and viewed on said display means.
12. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 11 further comprising a security means for accessing said tracking device.
13. A medication tracking system as claimed in claim 12 wherein said security means further comprises an access code and a personalized identifier.
14. A method of tracking and identifying medication comprising:
(a) accessing and receiving healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles from a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of medication identifiers, using a security means and a communication means of a tracking device having a scanning means for scanning and reading said medication identifiers and a display means, (b) viewing said healthcare information and said personalized, healthcare profile on said display means.
(a) accessing and receiving healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles from a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of medication identifiers, using a security means and a communication means of a tracking device having a scanning means for scanning and reading said medication identifiers and a display means, (b) viewing said healthcare information and said personalized, healthcare profile on said display means.
15. A method of tracking and identifying medication comprising:
(a) accessing and receiving healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles from a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of medication identifiers, using a security means and a communication means of a tracking device having a scanning means for scanning and reading said medication identifiers and a display means, (b) sending said scanned medication identifier through said communication means to said database of medication identifiers in said storing means for approval or rejection, (c) sending said approval or rejection of said medication identifier to said tracking device through said communication means; and (d) viewing said approval or rejection of said medication identifier on said display means.
(a) accessing and receiving healthcare information and personalized healthcare profiles from a storing means having a random access memory for storing healthcare information, personalized healthcare profiles and a database of medication identifiers, using a security means and a communication means of a tracking device having a scanning means for scanning and reading said medication identifiers and a display means, (b) sending said scanned medication identifier through said communication means to said database of medication identifiers in said storing means for approval or rejection, (c) sending said approval or rejection of said medication identifier to said tracking device through said communication means; and (d) viewing said approval or rejection of said medication identifier on said display means.
16. A method as claimed in claims 14 or 15 wherein said healthcare information is selected from the group consisting of said user's medical history, personal identifiers, prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, medication profiles, donor card information, living will information, medical dosage information and medicine scheduling information, and said selectively accessing healthcare information displayed on said display means.
17. A method as claimed in claim 16 wherein said security means further comprises an access code matched to a personalized identifier whereby said tracking device, said healthcare information and said personalized healthcare profile are accessed by entering an access code and personalized identifier.
18. A method as claimed in claim 17 wherein said display means is an interactive display screen for displaying said healthcare information.
19. A method as claimed in claim 18 wherein said interactive display screen further comprises an alarm for reminding of missed doses, incompatible medication and wrong medication.
20. A method as claimed in claim 19 wherein said interactive display screen further comprises an audio module.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002306674A CA2306674A1 (en) | 2000-04-26 | 2000-04-26 | Medication tracking system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002306674A CA2306674A1 (en) | 2000-04-26 | 2000-04-26 | Medication tracking system |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2306674A1 true CA2306674A1 (en) | 2001-10-26 |
Family
ID=4166004
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002306674A Abandoned CA2306674A1 (en) | 2000-04-26 | 2000-04-26 | Medication tracking system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2306674A1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP1363225A2 (en) * | 2002-05-14 | 2003-11-19 | Ellen Badinelli | Systems and methods for a consumer to determine food/medicine interactions |
| WO2003107290A2 (en) * | 2002-06-13 | 2003-12-24 | Philips Intellectual Property & Standards Gmbh | Aptitude test system |
| SG107577A1 (en) * | 2001-02-21 | 2004-12-29 | Ibm | Method to address security and privacy issues of the use of rfid systems to track consumer products |
| EP1790114A2 (en) * | 2004-04-29 | 2007-05-30 | Walker, Digital LLC | Method and apparatus for outputting a result of a game via a container |
| CN114093480A (en) * | 2021-11-16 | 2022-02-25 | 陈灿 | A processing method of a medication index statistical information system |
-
2000
- 2000-04-26 CA CA002306674A patent/CA2306674A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG107577A1 (en) * | 2001-02-21 | 2004-12-29 | Ibm | Method to address security and privacy issues of the use of rfid systems to track consumer products |
| US7805319B2 (en) | 2001-10-17 | 2010-09-28 | Ellen Badinelli | Systems and methods for a consumer to determine food/medicine interactions |
| US8060383B2 (en) | 2001-10-17 | 2011-11-15 | Ellen Badinelli | Systems and methods for a consumer to determine food/medicine interactions |
| EP1363225A2 (en) * | 2002-05-14 | 2003-11-19 | Ellen Badinelli | Systems and methods for a consumer to determine food/medicine interactions |
| EP1363225A3 (en) * | 2002-05-14 | 2004-11-10 | Ellen Badinelli | Systems and methods for a consumer to determine food/medicine interactions |
| WO2003107290A2 (en) * | 2002-06-13 | 2003-12-24 | Philips Intellectual Property & Standards Gmbh | Aptitude test system |
| WO2003107290A3 (en) * | 2002-06-13 | 2004-07-22 | Philips Intellectual Property | Test system for determining suitability of consumable item |
| EP1790114A2 (en) * | 2004-04-29 | 2007-05-30 | Walker, Digital LLC | Method and apparatus for outputting a result of a game via a container |
| EP1790114A4 (en) * | 2004-04-29 | 2009-12-23 | Walker Digital Llc | Method and apparatus for outputting a result of a game via a container |
| CN114093480A (en) * | 2021-11-16 | 2022-02-25 | 陈灿 | A processing method of a medication index statistical information system |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |