Robot Assisted Medication Dispensing Study (RAM-D)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A feasibility study of impact and outcomes from deployment of a Robot Assisted Medication Dispenser (RAM-D) in primary care patient residences: examining medication concordance, health outcomes associated with defined co-morbidities, technology acceptance, and care system efficiencies
IRAS ID
347550
Contact name
Markus Maiden-Tilsen
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Kent and Medway ICB
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Medication non-concordance, or not taking medications as prescribed, is a common issue. Current solutions, like pill organiser (Dossett) boxes and reliance on carers, are often hard to use and maintain. Robot Assisted Medication Dispensers (RAM-Ds) are assistive technology devices designed to help people take their medications correctly and on time. RAM-Ds are a valuable tool for improving medication adherence, especially for individuals with complex medication regimens and/or those who may have difficulty managing their medications independently.
Real-time monitoring of medication use can improve health outcomes and reduce hospital visits, especially for primary care patients with multiple health conditions. Medication errors and missed doses are common, particularly among the elderly and those with chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Better adherence to medication can improve health, reduce healthcare use, and lower costs.
This study aims to assess the impact and outcomes of using RAM-Ds at home for people with multiple chronic conditions. Main areas of outcomes will be: medication adherence, health outcomes, quality of life, device acceptance and care system efficiencies.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
25/WS/0027
Date of REC Opinion
12 May 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion