There are apps available for every aspect of life, with over 9 million apps available in the Apple App Store alone. Among them are a large number of apps that pharmacists could use to make medication management easier – but not everyone knows about them.
Medication management apps allow for better patient education because pharmacists can use these tools to educate patients about the importance of medication adherence and how to effectively manage their medications. These apps also help pharmacists identify potential drug interactions and ensure patients are taking their medications correctly, reducing the risk of side effects.
Some of the latest medication management apps for pharmacies are PioneerRx, Winpharm and Rx30 Pharmacy System.
PioneerRx offers comprehensive medication management tools, including med sync, adherence tracking, patient risk assessment, and medication therapy management (MTM) features. Med Sync simplifies prescription refills, improves patient adherence and comfort.
Winpharm provides customizable workflows, automated refill management, patient communication tools, and built-in electronic care plans to increase patient engagement and improve star ratings.
The Rx30 pharmacy system integrates business and clinical operations, automates prescription processing, optimizes medication synchronization, and provides integrated point-of-sale solutions for a seamless patient experience.
Irene Brako, PharmD, pharmacy manager in Lorton, Va., recommended some other top medication management apps. “My top picks are MediSafe, RoundHealth and MangoHealth,” she said. “Each of these apps offers different features that can help pharmacists encourage their patients to stay on track with their medications.” MediSafe, she noted, is of particular value to pharmacists because of its patient-centred approach to medication management.
“I recommend this app to my customers to improve medication adherence,” Brako said. “The app offers features like coupons, medication history tracking, and reminders that make it easier for patients to keep their medications and be more compliant.”
Through a partnership with GoodRx, MediSafe users can get coupons for their other medications right in the app, making the app especially useful for low-income patients. MediSafe tracks the shape, color and size of all medications a patient takes and can accurately track medication history. This is helpful when patients change pharmacies or move to another state.
“The app sends notifications to remind users when it’s time to take their medication, which is especially helpful for patients who have trouble remembering their medications,” explained Brako. “All of these features make MediSafe an invaluable tool for both pharmacists and patients.”
RoundHealth is a medication reminder app designed to help users remember to take their pills. The app is easy to set up and does a nice job of subtly reminding patients when to take their medication. Users can program dosages for a fairly extensive list of prescription and over-the-counter medications as well as supplements.
The Mango Health app also offers customizable reminders for pills and supplements. In addition, patients can receive healthy habit alerts, drug interaction alerts, and refill alerts. It is highly recommended by pharmacists.
Pharmacists can learn about these applications—and many others—through a variety of channels. Professional organizations such as the American Pharmacists Association often provide resources and training on the latest health technologies, including medication management applications.
Many accredited pharmacy continuing education programs include information on technology tools such as medication management apps. And pharmaceutical software companies often offer pharmacists training and resources on how to use their products effectively.
“Pharmacists need to use similar medication management apps because they can have a positive impact on patient care,” said Brako. “These apps allow pharmacists to help patients establish and maintain consistent medication routines, which ultimately leads to better health outcomes.”
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