Novel Technologies to Support Care Providers and Patients in the Medication Process
摘要
Medications are administered through a complex multi-step process that forms a critical part of a patient’s treatment plan. This complexity introduces a range of risks and potential adverse events. As a result, medication errors are very common and can have serious consequences for healthcare systems globally. To address these challenges, technologies that enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and safety of the medication process have become essential. In this chapter, we explore innovative technologies that have been introduced or are being utilized to streamline and improve medication management throughout the different phases of the medication process. These include wearable drug delivery devices, which ensure continuous and controlled administration of medications, and AI-powered systems that optimize decision-making by analyzing patient data, predicting non-adherence, and personalizing treatment plans. Robotics and automation have advanced the precision and reliability of tasks such as compounding, dispensing, and medication delivery, minimizing human errors. Additionally, augmented and virtual reality tools provide interactive training and guidance to both healthcare providers and patients, reducing errors and improving adherence to treatment protocols.