A Smarter Pillbox For Your Home

Pictured: Steve Dhein, Volunteer Technician for Hunterdon Lifeline demonstrates the new Philips Medication Dispenser.

Published November 13, 2009

Taking medication on time and at the right dosage just got easier. Hunterdon Medical Center now offers the Philips Medication Dispenser through its Hunterdon Lifeline program. The service provides clients with a machine that dispenses out the proper dose of medication at the right time, reducing the risk of missed or double doses.

“Today’s caregivers are often looking after their own families as well as their parents, in addition to full-time jobs. This system helps older adults take their medication properly, even when they are home alone,” stated Pamela Stewart, Community Liaison and Lifeline Coordinator for Hunterdon Regional Community Health. Stewart explained, “The medication dispenser helps to reduce the risk of medical complications, unplanned re-hospitalization and can potentially reduce the risk of falls.”

It’s no secret that medications are getting more complicated. Studies have shown that 10 percent of all hospital admissions involving seniors are the result of improper medication.

A caregiver—be it a family member or professional—loads the machine with up to 40 days worth of pills, metered out in plastic portion cups. Voice and visual reminders alert the patient when they need to take medicine and also give specialized instructions, such as “take the medicine with food.”

A 24-hour monitoring service gives clients and families peace of mind. The device is connected via a phone line to the Philips call center. The center immediately notifies a caregiver if a dosage is missed. Backup battery systems ensure the device works during power outages, and an online service lets caregivers track medications in real time.

For more information about this and other Lifeline services offered by Hunterdon Healthcare call 908-788-6550.