Author Topic: Hi-tech tablet that will text patients (Read 2710 times)

Rubbie · « **on:** October 12, 2010, 10:36:54 PM »

A 'smart' pill that texts patients' mobile phones if they forget to take their medication is being tested in the UK.
Around 40 volunteers are being recruited by NHS doctors to take standard versions of their heart pill fitted with a microchip.
The chips in the pills send signals to a patch attached to the patient's shoulder when swallowed.

The Raisin: The system contains a pill with an edible microchip and a
patch that sits on the shoulder which texts information to either the doctor or patient

Technology in the patch monitors when the pills are swallowed and can send a text if the patient forgets to take medication.
The system, known as Raisin, also monitors heart rate, heart activity and how well the patient is sleeping - all of which may signal a deteriorating condition.
It costs a few pence per pill and was initially tested in the US, where it improved the rate patients consistently took their medication from 30 per cent to 80 per cent.If successful, the four-month trial being run by Imperial College Healthcare Trust, Imperial College London and the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading, could lead to a year-long trial

Professor Nicholas Peters, professor of cardiology at Imperial College Healthcare, said the main aim was encourage heart patients to stick to taking their pills. With a stricter medication regime, it is hoped their health will improve and they will be less likely to be admitted to hospital in an emergency.

The system yesterday received the European Union's CE mark, certifying that it meets consumer and health requirements.
It paves the way for the system to be combined with a range of medicines, and clinical trials have begun in the US with drugs for diabetes, organ transplants, mental health and tuberculosis.

Author Topic: Hi-tech tablet that will text patients (Read 2710 times)

Rubbie

Hi-tech tablet that will text patients

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