Automated medication dispensers trialled in homes

New technology is being trialled in Jersey to help people take their medicines regularly.

The Government of Jersey said the 10-month pilot scheme would trial automated medication dispensers in people's homes.

It said it was hoped the technology would help those who rely on regular medication to receive the right dosage at the right time and help to reduce missed or incorrect doses.

The system would also monitor vital signs such as heart rate and connect with care teams and pharmacies to allow faster responses where support was needed, the government added.

The government said it was hoped the automated dispensers would reduce the need for multiple daily visits from care staff.

It said the project was focused on those who take multiple medicines, were managing long-term conditions or required additional support from care providers.

Alongside improving day-to-day care, the pilot would generate Jersey-specific evidence on clinical outcomes, workforce impact and cost-effectiveness in healthcare delivery, the government added.

The scheme has been awarded £77,500 by Impact Jersey, which is delivered by Digital Jersey, and will be tested by European technology specialist Evondos.

Evondos UK managing director Nick Hucker said: "The system is designed to deliver medication accurately, prevent access outside scheduled times and alert care teams if doses are missed."

He said he hoped it would deliver a solution that would help people live more independently.

Digital Jersey chief executive officer Tony Moretta said the pilot was "a strong example of innovation being applied to a genuine everyday challenge".

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