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Custom Health Study Published in JMIR

University of Waterloo study funded by the Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation (CABHI), examined the effectiveness of Custom Health connected care for people with chronic conditions

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University of Waterloo study funded by the Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation (CABHI), examined the effectiveness of Custom Health connected care for people with chronic conditions

A peer-reviewed study in the Journal of Medical Internet Research resulted in 98 % average monthly medication adherence, 86% average system usability score (SUS) by older adults and a significantly improved caregiver burden score (pre 7/10 vs. post 3/10)

As our populations age, the prevalence of chronic diseases among seniors is increasing. Safe use of medications used to manage chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and certain cancers is key to enabling successful aging in place. The study touches on several factors that contribute to appropriate medication management for optimal health for people as they age. This sheds light on the opportunities that pharmacist-driven care and digital health tools can provide to people who wish to remain independent and live in their homes.

The prospective, observational study set out to examine the use of a smart medication dispenser as a medication adherence and self-management support tool for community dwelling adults over a six-month period in addition to usability, usefulness, satisfaction, and impact on caregiver support. Furthermore, clinical pharmacists used real-time data to identify and address 1,114 medication related problems impacting 78% of participants.

See the announcement here.

Connected technologies have great potential for medication management in patients on drug therapy for chronic conditions who wish to remain in the community and require more assistance with daily activities, such as taking medication as they age.

Lead investigator, Dr. Tejal Patel, Clinical Associate Professor, University of Waterloo School of Pharmacy