This is an interesting story about a new system for reminding people to tell medications at the times they are supposed to take them and a second development, a new patent, which may report when medication has been taken.

It is reported by The Wall Street Journal Digital News.

Medication errors are one huge patient safety issue. Medication “non-compliance” (the patient does not take the medicine or does not take as prescribed) is a huge quality issue.

In addition, patients who need medicines and miss them are at risk for complications.

This invention is driven, of course, in part by money, says this report.

Pharmaceutical companies and pharmacy benefit management companies make more money when patients “comply.”

But it is also about the patient’s health. Keeping medications straight is maddening for patients and their care-givers alike.

The Wall Street Journal Digital

Source: Wall Street Journal Digital, Maarch 3, 2010