The Online Medicine Cabinet
From: Tech Eye for the Older Guy and Gal - 09/19/2007

The Online Medicine Cabinet, a prototype developed by Accenture that
demonstrates how technology will enable us to take more control over our own
healthcare. It combines sensors with the power of the Internet and embedded
computers to create a "situated portal" - a smart appliance that continuously
monitors the needs of people and responds with appropriate, individualized
services. 

By using a camera and face-recognition software, the cabinet can identify
different persons in a household, and their special needs. For example, if an
individual suffers from allergies or asthma, the Online Medicine Cabinet will
provide information such as the day’s pollen count, and remind that person to
take their medicine. Sensors on prescription bottle labels allow the cabinet
to identify each drug and alert consumers if they have taken the wrong
bottle - or if it’s the right bottle at the wrong time. This is vital, because
at present, nearly one third of all hospital visits result from consumers not
following their doctor’s orders or taking the wrong medication. 

The Online Medicine Cabinet also enables consumers to monitor vital signs,
such as blood pressure, heart rate and cholesterol levels, and immediately
share this information with their doctor via the Internet. The cabinet also
provides a trend chart, so individuals can track their progress. If the chart
indicates a problem tendency, the system will suggest that the user make an
appointment with their doctor. Naturally, appointments can be made via the
cabinet’s Internet connection. This will cut down on routine doctor visits,
saving time and money for consumers, doctors and insurance companies. 

Links:
Accenture Online Medicine Cabinet website:
http://www.accenture.com/Global/Services/Accenture_Technology_Labs/R_and_I/OnlineMedicineCabinet.htm

‘Magic’ Medicine Cabinet Monitors Meds
http://www.aarp.org/international/agingadvances/innovations/Articles/3_06_usa_accenture.html

Online Medicine Cabinet
http://www.wired.com/news/images/67237_rfid2.html