Narcotics and opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus and method of use
11854680 ยท 2023-12-26
Inventors
Cpc classification
A61J2200/70
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A61J2205/60
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A61J7/0427
HUMAN NECESSITIES
International classification
A61J7/04
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A61J7/00
HUMAN NECESSITIES
Abstract
A multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus and a method of use provides secure storage and dispensing of controlled substances and supplemental/alternative medication while providing remote assistance and monitoring. The apparatus includes at least two motorized medication trays for automatic dispensing of medication. Medication tray compartments can be filled manually or filled by inserting a prefilled blister pack containing sealed medication. The apparatus further comprises a secure tamper resistant housing, plurality of sensors, an optional reclamation safe, and a wireless communication module to notify remote operators of suspected illegal/unauthorized access. The apparatus can be configured in different form factors including, a portable desktop configuration, a wearable configuration designed for attaching to a person's wrist, arm, foot, etc. The apparatus can dispense a controlled substance or supplemental/alternative medication based upon a dispensing schedule and/or inputs from the user, wherein the supplemental/alternative medication is alternatively dispensed to control addition and/or proper use.
Claims
1. A secure medication dispensing system comprising: a multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus and software for operating the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus, the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus comprising: a. a microprocessor; b. memory in signal communication with the microprocessor; c. software comprising a set of instructions that are executed by the microprocessor, the software being stored in the memory; d. a wireless transceiver in signal communication with the microprocessor; e. a first tray, the first tray comprising a plurality of first tray medication compartments containing primary medication, the first tray being arranged to dispense the primary medication from each first tray medication compartment into a medication dispensing location; f. a second tray, the second tray comprising a plurality of second tray medication compartments containing secondary supplemental medication, the second tray being arranged to dispense the secondary medication from each second tray medication compartment into the medication dispensing location; g. at least one closure, wherein the at least one closure provides access to and a secure seal to each of the first tray and the second tray; h. a user identification system in signal communication with the microprocessor, i. a first tray operating control mechanism, wherein the first tray operating control mechanism positions the first tray respective to the dispensing location, the first tray operating control mechanism being controlled by the software; j. a second tray operating control mechanism, wherein the second tray operating control mechanism positions the second tray respective to the dispensing location, the second tray operating control mechanism being controlled by the software; k. a sensor in signal communication with the microprocessor, the sensor being arranged to detect when medication has been dispensed; and l. A housing carrying the microprocessor, the memory, the sensor mechanism, the first tray, the second tray, and at least one medication dispensing mechanism, the software comprising steps of: requesting dispensing of the primary medication from the first tray; initiating a request for information from the user as a result of the request for dispensing of the primary medication from the first tray, wherein the information requested is to determine an appropriateness of the primary medication for the user; entry of information for authorizing dispensing of the primary medication from the first tray, wherein the entry of information is provided by the user, the entered information is considered to determine: (a) if dispensing the primary medication from the first tray is appropriate based upon the information entered by the user, (b) if dispensing the supplemental medication from the second tray is appropriate based upon the information entered by the user, or (c) if providing an alternative action to dispensing any medication is appropriate based upon the information entered by the user; wherein, in a condition where the entered information determines the condition to be appropriate to dispense primary medication from the first tray, the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus dispenses primary medication from the first tray, wherein, in a condition where the entered information determines the condition to be appropriate to dispense supplemental medication from the second tray, the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus dispenses supplemental medication from the second tray, and wherein, in a condition where the entered information determines the condition to be appropriate to provide an alternative action to dispensing any medication, the system initiates an alternative action.
2. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, wherein the first tray is provided in a form of a rotatable carousel and the second tray is provided in a form of a rotatable carousel, wherein the arrangement to dispense the primary medication from the first tray is accomplished by rotating the first tray, and wherein the arrangement to dispense the secondary medication from the second tray is accomplished by rotating the second tray.
3. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, further comprising at least one medication dispensing mechanism, the at least one medication dispensing mechanism being arranged to dispense medication from at least one of the first tray and the second tray, the medication being dispensed into the medication dispensing location.
4. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, further comprising at least one blister pack, the at least one blister pack being located in at least one of the first tray and the second tray.
5. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 4, further comprising a punch lever arranged to excise medication from the at least one blister pack via a combination of a radial motion of the punch lever in combination with a rotational motion of the respective one of the first tray and the second tray.
6. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, wherein the primary medication stored in the first tray medication compartments of the first tray is classified as a class II drug.
7. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 6, wherein the primary medication stored in the first tray medication compartments of the first tray is classified as a class II drug, wherein the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus dispenses the class II drug only after verification that the user of the class II drug meets predetermined criteria for administration of the class II drug.
8. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 6, further comprising a medication reclamation safe, wherein the medication reclamation safe is configured to collect medication from the medication dispensing location when it is determined to collect the medication.
9. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a medication reclamation safe, wherein the medication reclamation safe is configured to collect medication from the medication dispensing location when it is determined to collect the medication.
10. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, the medication dispensing location further comprising a medication staging location and a medication dispensing member, wherein the medication dispensing member is configured to dispense the medication from the medication staging location when it is determined to dispense the staged medication.
11. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, wherein the primary medication stored in the first tray medication compartments of the first tray is a class II drug and the supplemental medication stored in the second tray medication compartments of the second tray is a non-addictive drug excluded from class II classification category.
12. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a panic button, wherein the panic button interacts with the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus, upon actuation of the panic button, the system prompts entry of the information for authorizing dispensing of medication from the first tray.
13. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, the software further comprising a step of dispensing medication from at least one second tray medication compartment of the plurality of second tray medication compartments independent of whether the first tray dispenses medication.
14. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a tamper proof dual lock mechanism which secures each of a first rotary cover sealing the first tray in a closed position and a second rotary cover sealing the second tray in a closed position.
15. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, wherein the first tray and the second tray are provided in a linear assembly, wherein the arrangement to dispense the primary medication from the first tray is accomplished by accessing one compartment of the first tray, and wherein the arrangement to dispense the secondary medication from the second tray is accomplished by accessing one compartment of the second tray.
16. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, further comprising at least one of: (a) an optical, non-contact sensor and programming for detection of one of a user's hand or a container into which the dispenser releases medication, and (b) a biometric sensing mechanism to authenticate an authorized user prior to execution of a step of dispensing medication.
17. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a biometric sensing mechanism to identify an authorized user prior to execution of a step of dispensing pills.
18. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, further comprising a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, wherein the system reports a location of the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus obtained using the Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver to the remote party.
19. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus further comprising: m. a display in signal communication with the microprocessor; n. a microphone in signal communication with the microprocessor; and o. a speaker in signal communication with the microprocessor, wherein the housing additionally carries the display, the microphone, and the speaker, the software further comprising a step of: interacting with a user via an interactive artificial intelligence virtual assistant, wherein the interactive artificial intelligence virtual assistant communicates with the user via the display, the speaker, and the microphone.
20. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus further comprising a cavity storing a suspected overdose counteracting medication.
21. The secure medication dispensing system as recited in claim 1, the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus further comprising steps of: utilizing a dispensing schedule to identify when medication is to be dispensed; and monitoring the dispensing schedule, wherein in a condition where medication is not dispensed from the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus within the scheduled dispense time period, notifying a remote party associated with at least one of operation of the multi-tray medication dispensing apparatus and care of the user, wherein the dispensing of the primary medication or the secondary medication is determined based upon at least one of: (a) a predetermined medication dispensing schedule, and (b) a real time authorization.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) A clear understanding of the key features of the invention summarized above may be had by reference to the appended diagrams/flow charts, which illustrate the method and system of the invention, although it will be understood that such diagrams/flow charts depict preferred embodiments of the invention and, therefore, are not to be considered as limiting its scope with regard to other embodiments which the invention is capable of contemplating. Accordingly:
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
(56) Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular embodiments, features, or elements. Specific structural and functional details, dimensions, or shapes disclosed herein are not limiting but serve as a basis for the claims and for teaching a person of ordinary skill in the art the described and claimed features of embodiments of the present invention. The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word exemplary or illustrative means serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any implementation described herein as exemplary or illustrative is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms upper, lower, left, rear, right, front, vertical, horizontal, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in
(57) It should be noted that references to an, one, or various embodiments in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment, and such references contemplate more than one embodiment.
(58) The present invention disclosed herein is a contactless automatic pill dispenser configured to remind a user and to dispense medication to the user, and to provide a system for tracking medication compliance.
(59) Unless otherwise defined, all terms of art, notations and other scientific terms or terminology used herein are intended to have the meanings commonly understood by those of skill in the art to which this invention pertains unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In some cases, terms with commonly understood meanings are defined herein for clarity and/or for ready reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein should not necessarily be construed to represent a substantial difference over what is generally understood in the art. Many of the techniques and procedures described or referenced herein are well understood and commonly employed using conventional methodology by those skilled in the art, such as, for example, the widely utilized current good manufacturing practice guidelines.
(60) As used herein the term computing device includes a desktop, laptop or tablet computer, as well as a mobile device or any other functionally similar device.
(61) As used herein, the terms patient, care giver, user, and the like all refer to the person who is using the present invention and are meant to be interchangeable and non-limiting.
(62) Telemetry refers to any wireless transmission and reception of measured quantities for the purpose of remotely monitoring environmental conditions or equipment parameters.
(63) Software Application refers to all computer software that causes a computer to perform useful tasks beyond the running of the computer itself.
(64) Disclosed herein and illustrated in
(65) A narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is introduced in
(66) The secondary cover 124 may or may not have a port for microphone 136 and speaker 134 which is recessed respective to the top cover 114. The secondary cover 124 also houses a secondary tray cover locking harness 152 and a dual tray cover interconnected locking shaft 154 which is used to lock the device, preventing unauthorized access and tampering. The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 includes a display unit 130 used to present a graphical user interface (GUI) for the various functions of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 and can house a mobile computing device and an Avatar 132. The mobile computing device can be embedded into the current setup and maybe a separate detachable unit. The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can include a set of legs 140, 142, one in the back (rear supporting leg 142) and the other in the front (front supporting leg 140). The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can be charged through charging contacts 139. The charging contacts 139 can also provide a connection to the charging contacts 262 within each storage shelf 260 of a storage cart (docking station) 250 (
(67) Referring to
(68) The primary medication tray 110 of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, can hold both manually loaded pills 119, 129 as well as a sealed blister pack 160 (described in
(69) The secondary medication tray 120 of narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 contains manually loaded supplemental medications, vitamins, and other pills 129. The secondary medication tray 120 comprises of multiple medication compartments 122 containing vitamins, supplemental medication and new additions to regular medication contained in the primary medication try 110.
(70) Dispensing of the medications contained in each of the secondary medication tray 120 compartment 122 can be programmed to dispense at: a. Simultaneously, with the medication in the primary medication tray compartments at the scheduled time instance such as morning, noon, afternoon and evening, as well as the scheduled day of the week. b. At a pre-programmed time interval prior to the dispensing of the medication in the primary medication tray compartments at the scheduled time instance such as morning, noon, afternoon and evening, as well as the scheduled day of the week. c. At a pre-programmed time interval after the dispensing of the medication in the primary medication tray compartments at the scheduled time instance such as morning, noon, afternoon and evening, as well as the scheduled day of the week
(71) The secondary tray cover 124 for secondary mediation tray 120 further comprises an embedded touch display screen 130 or a mobile device 368, such as a mobile phone or a tablet, as well as a microphone 136 and speaker 134, wherein the microphone 136 and the speaker 134 allow the artificial intelligence Avatar assistant 132 as well as the remote operators and caregivers to interactively communicate with the user.
(72) The display unit 130 of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is utilized to schedule, edit and view medication to be dispensed, provide visual communication between the artificial intelligence Avatar assistant 132 and the user and provide video communication between the user and remotely located operators and caregivers.
(73) The artificial intelligence Avatar assistant 132 of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 utilizes text to speech, speech to text and Natural Language Processing (NLP) 326 technology to interactively communicate with the user, triage the user and gather relevant information regarding user's health status.
(74) The legs 140, 142 can provide several functions. The front supporting leg 140 of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 that can be folded closed and snapped in place to allow the device to be carried around.
(75) The rear supporting leg 142 of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 that can be folded closed and snapped in place to allow the device to be carried around. The rear leg 142 can also folded fully open and snapped in place, to be used as a carrying handle for the device.
(76) One or both legs 140, 142 can include a controlled access to a storage cavity provided within an interior of the respective leg 140, 142. Access to the storage cavity can be provided by a supporting leg storage access element 141, 143. The supporting leg storage access element 141, 143 is preferably a door which can be pivotally opened, hingeably opened, slideably opened, or opened using any other suitable process. The supporting leg storage access element 141, 143 can be locked with limited access, where the access could be provided via a remote authorization from a counselor, a medical support person, an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), a nurse, a nurse practitioner, a physician, or any other authorized party. One or more treatments of a suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 can be storage within the storage cavity. In one example, the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 can be NARCAN provided in either a spray or an injecting delivery format. It is preferred to include at least two treatments of the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 within the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100.
(77) Although the illustrated exemplary narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 utilizes the legs 140, 142 for storage of the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148, the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 can be stored in a storage cavity located anywhere on the exemplary narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, including the body, an underside of the body, or any other suitable location.
(78) Access to the storage cavity can be initiated by actuation of a panic button 138. The user can actuate the panic button 138 using any prescribed process. For example, the panic button 138 can be actuated by depressing the panic button 138 over an extended period of time (such as 3 seconds). In another example, actuation can be accomplished by simultaneously depressing a pair of spatially arranged panic buttons 138.
(79) Upon actuation of the panic button(s) 138, the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can proceed along any of several paths. a first option would be to provide immediate access to the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 stored within the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100. A second option would be to initiate access for authorization. The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 would access a predetermined authorizing party, such as a counselor, a medical support person, an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), a nurse, a nurse practitioner, a physician, or any other authorizing party. The authorizing party would determine whether conditions are appropriate to provide access to the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 stored within the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100. The authorizing party can opt to contact the user via the wireless module 340 of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 and interact with the user via the user interface 360. Alternatively, the authorizing party activate features of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 to determine the conditions surrounding the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100. Examples of remotely activated features can include microphone 136, a medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172, a medication dispense monitoring camera 174, or any other feature installed on the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 which can acquire information that can aid the authorizing party in determining the conditions of the user and surrounding environment. The medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 and the microphone 136 can be remotely activated, if desired, to record both video and audio following the unwarranted motion. The artificial intelligence avatar 132 (or any other suitable communication elements) can be activated by a remote party to communicate with one or more persons (such as the user) that would be located proximate the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 as desired.
(80) Access to the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 can be provided by any suitable controlled access panel 141, 143. This can include a motorized access control, a magnetically controlled access operation, a mechanically controlled access operation, a pin controlled access operation, or any other locking and opening access control. Access can also be monitoring by a security monitoring system similar to or the same security monitoring system employed for monitoring security of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100. It is recognized that access to the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 is less concerning than access to the narcotics or Opioids stored within the primary medication tray 110. Although the exemplary illustrations present the storage for the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 within the legs 140, 142 of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 can be stored in any reasonable portion of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100.
(81) The sealed blister pack 160, as shown in
(82) In the dispense compartment 116, another benefit of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, is an ability to simultaneously dispense pills that were (a) manually loaded in the primary medication tray 110, (b) pills contained in the sealed blister pack 160, and supplemental pills manually placed within the secondary medication tray 120, thru a common dispense compartment 116.
(83) Another feature of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is a motorized punching mechanism 356 detailed in
(84) The charging contacts 262 located within each storage shelf 260 of the storage cart 250 are arranged to create an electrical communication link with the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus charging contacts 139 to enable charging of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 while the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is docked. The charging contacts 262 within each storage shelf 260 further provide a connection circuitry for the storage cart 250 to access, log and report the ID, configuration information on each narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus, as well as the medication dispensed from the primary medication tray 110, the secondary medication tray 120 and the sealed blister pack 160.
(85) During operation, the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can include features to validate the user acquiring the contained medication. For example, the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can include a medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172. The medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 can provide a multitude of features. The medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 can provide facial recognition of the user for validation of the user via biometrics. Similarly, the medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 can provide a function of an iris scanner for validation of the user via biometrics. The medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 can also be utilized to identify any unwarranted movement of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, such as in a condition where the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 become inverted. Motion sensors can alternative or additionally be utilized for the same or similar function. The medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 can be used to track the medication from dispensing through ingestion. This provides a validation process that the patient has actually taken the medication.
(86) Any, a portion, or all video acquired by the medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 can be recorded and stored in the memory module 320, transmitted to a remote storage media, transmitted to a monitoring party, or transmitted to any other desired recipient (including a portable device associated with a person, a portable device, or a fixed device, or any combination thereof).
(87) A medication dispensing member 170 provides a controlled access to the dispense compartment 116. The medication dispensing member 170 additionally offers an option for pre-staging of medication (primary medication and/or supplemental medication) within the dispense compartment 116 prior to dispensing. The medication dispensing member 170 could be operated using a motor, a cable, hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or any other drive mechanism. The medication dispensing member 170 can open via a hinge along one side, rotated into an open position (similar to the process for opening the bracelet compartment door 212), opened via a sliding motion, or any other suitable method of opening an automatically operated member.
(88) One exemplary operation of the medication dispensing door 170 is illustrated in
(89) A biometric monitoring sensor 176 can be provided, preferably at a location proximate the medication dispensing member 170, enabling user validation immediately prior to dispensing the medication. Further, in an arrangement where the biometric monitoring sensor 176 is located adjacent to the medication dispensing member 170, opening of the medication dispensing member 170 can be initiated by the user placing their finger onto the biometric monitoring sensor 176, positioning their hand under the medication dispensing member 170, retaining their finger in that location while the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 dispenses the medication. A medication dispense monitoring camera 174 can be integrated into the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, wherein the medication dispense monitoring camera 174 is provided to acquire video during the process of dispensing the medication. This can ensure that the medication was received directly by the patient associated with the script. These features are provided to ensure that the medication is to dispense to the patient and only to the patient. The medication dispense monitoring camera 174 can function in conjunction with the medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 to acquire video from the time where the medication is dispensed through the time where the medication is ingested. The medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 can be replicated about a circumference of the body of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100. The medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 172 can be any suitable camera, including a standard video camera, a zoom lens capability camera, a camera in a motorized mount, a camera in a motorized mount being remotely controlled, an infrared camera, a night-vision camera, or any other suitable video acquisition system. One or more light emitting elements 178 can be integrated into the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 at a location proximate the dispense compartment 116. The light emitting elements 178 are provided to emit light towards the dispensing location, which can additionally support acquisition of video using the medication dispense monitoring camera 174.
(90) One of the goals of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is to enable a process for tracking the dispensing and ingestion of the medication 119, 129. A first optional process employs the GPS/GNSS 341. The inclusion of a GPS/GNSS 341 (
(91) The storage/charging cart/station are illustrated in
(92) The storage cart 250 is preferably portable and would include a plurality of casters. Alternatively, mobility of the storage cart 250 can be provided by integrating powered wheels, including a steering mechanism. The mobility of the storage cart 250 can be user operated, automated, or a combination thereof.
(93) Each storage cart 250 comprises of one or more storage shelves 210 to place and dock the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100. The charging contacts 212 within each storage shelf 260 of the storage cart 250 allow charging of the narcotics and
(94) Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 while being docked. The charging contacts 262 within each storage shelf 210 further provides the connection circuitry for the storage cart 250 to access, log and report the ID, configuration information on each narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, as well as the medication dispensed from the primary medication tray 110, the secondary medication tray 120 and the sealed blister pack 160.
(95) The storage cart (docking station) 250 can additional include a storage cart interactive system 270. The storage cart interactive system 270 can incorporate a display (preferably a touch display), a speaker, a microphone, and any other user interface devices, such as a keyboard, a pointing device, or any other suitable user interface devices. The storage cart interactive system 270 can be assembled to the storage cart (docking station) 250 using hinges enabling the storage cart interactive system 270 to be rotated between an upright (vertical) orientation and a lowered (horizontal) orientation.
(96) An ankle/wrist controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 is an alternate form of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100. The ankle/wrist controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 is provided in a form factor of a bracelet in order to provide mobile dispensing and monitoring of the Opioids usage and adherence. The ankle/wrist controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 can be configured to be placed on the user's wrist as an controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200. Alternatively, the ankle/wrist controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 can be configured to be placed on the user's ankle.
(97) Each ankle/wrist controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 comprises of one or more medication compartments 210 which will contain the medication to be dispensed at scheduled time. Each medication compartment 210 of the controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 comprises of a compartment door 212, a compartment door motor 214, and motor controller circuitry 358 to securely open and close the respective compartment door 212.
(98) Each medication compartment 210 of ankle/wrist controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 comprises a compartment door 212, a motorized mechanism 358, and an actuating door motor 214.
(99) The actuating door motor 214 and the associated supporting motor controller circuitry 358 are provided for each bracelet medication compartment door 212 to securely open and close the respective compartment door 212.
(100) The bracelet band 230 is configured to support a main bracelet control unit 220 and a plurality of the bracelet medication compartments 210.
(101) The bracelet docking magnets provide contact points between the controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 and the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100.
(102) The main bracelet control unit 220 comprises a touch display unit 222 which provides interactive communication between the controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200) with the bracelet artificial intelligence Avatar assistant 224. The bracelet touch display 222 can also provide video communication between the user and the remote operators and caregivers.
(103) The main bracelet control unit 220 comprises of a touch display unit 222 which provided interactive communication between the controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 with the bracelet artificial intelligence Avatar assistant 224. The artificial intelligence virtual Avatar assistant 224 of the current invention, Opioids bracelet 200 utilizes text to speech, speech to text and Natural Language Processing (NLP) 326 technology to interactively communicate with the user, triage the user and gather relevant information regarding user's health status.
(104) The main bracelet control unit 220 comprises of a touch display unit 222 which provided interactive communication between the controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 with the bracelet artificial intelligence Avatar assistant 224.
(105) The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus charging contacts 139, which are detailed in
(106) The secondary mediation tray cover 124 further comprises of a microphone 136 which allows the artificial intelligence Avatar assistant 224 as well as the remote operators and caregivers to interactively communicate with the user. The secondary mediation tray cover 124 further comprising a speaker 134 which allows the artificial intelligence avatar assistant 224 as well as the remote operators and caregivers to interactively communicate with the user. The primary medication tray 110 comprises of multiple medication compartments 112 containing the Opioids and other medications for one or more time instances during a day such as morning, noon, afternoon and evening, as well as one or more days of the week. The secondary medication tray 120 comprises of multiple medication compartments 122 containing vitamins, supplemental medication and new additions to regular medication contained in the primary medication tray 110.
(107) The microphone 136 can continuously monitor for sound. When the microphone 136 records a sound that the microprocessor 310 determines to be unusual, the microphone 136 continues to record, but the recording is saved.
(108) An electronic block diagram representative of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 300 is presented in
(109) The memory module 320 includes a storage area for the program 322, a database 324, text to speech (TTS), speech to text (STT) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) 326 as well as storage area for triage data 328.
(110) The power management module 330 includes a battery 332, a docking station interface 334, a charging circuitry 336 and a bracelet interface 338.
(111) The wireless module 340 includes cellular transmission circuitry 342 for 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G, Wi-Fi circuitry 344, Bluetooth circuitry 346 and RFID circuitry 347. The wireless module 340 can additionally include a Global Positioning System (GPS)/Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver 348 (
(112) The motor controller module 350 includes motor control circuitry for a primary tray 352, a secondary tray 354, a punch lever 356, a bracelet door 358 and a dispense door 359.
(113) The user interface module 360 includes a display controller 362, buttons 364, a speaker and a microphone 366, and a mobile device 368.
(114) The sensory system module 370 contains circuitry for various optical and mechanical sensors.
(115) It is critical that the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is configured to dispense the medication while ensuring against unwarranted access to the medication. This is of particular interest when dealing with narcotics, Opioids, and other schedule II drugs. Security for the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can be provided employing a number of features. Unwarranted access to the encase medication can be prevented using a security elements as introduced in
(116) A first scale 376 can be integrated into the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, wherein the first scale 376 would be located proximate the dispense compartment 116, where the first scale 376 can acquire a weight of the medication 119, 129 staged for dispensing. A second scale 376 can be integrated into the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, wherein the second scale 376 would be located at a medication reclamation safe 180 (
(117) The medication would remain in the dispense compartment 116 until one of two conditions: (a) dispensing of the primary medication 119 is appropriate. This can be based on a scheduled time for dispensing, a request by the user for dispensing of the primary medication 119, a request by the user for dispensing of the primary medication 119 that is approved by an authorizing process (either the system or a decision by an authorized person), or any other acceptable condition, (b) dispensing of the primary medication 119 is determined to be inappropriate. In this condition, the staged primary medication 119 can be forwarded to the medication reclamation safe 180. Conditions can include when a time window for dispensing of the primary medication 119 has lapsed without a request for dispensing of the primary medication 119, the user fails to meet criteria suitable for prescribing taking of the primary medication 119, or any other scenario where it would be determined inappropriate for the user to take the primary medication 119. In one scenario of this condition, it could be determined to reclaim the primary medication 119 and to dispense the supplemental medication 129, wherein the primary medication 119 would be transferred to the medication reclamation safe 180 and the supplemental medication 129 would be transferred to the 116 #for dispensing.
(118) Operation of one exemplary medication reclamation system is illustrated in
(119) A scale 376 can be integrated into the reclamation safe 180 to track a weight of the primary medication 119 being deposited within the reclamation safe repository 184.
(120) A track me process 400 for use in conjunction with the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is presented in
(121) A locate me process 500 for use in conjunction with the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is presented in
(122) A schedule medication process 600 for use in conjunction with the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is presented in
(123) Medication can be loaded independently into the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 or inserted in a prefilled blister pack 160. The primary medication scheduling process 600 identifies which tray is going to be dispensing the medication (decision step 620).
(124) The primary medication scheduling checks for a blister pack 160 (step 622). If there is no blister pack 160, the primary medication scheduling process prompts a loading of a blister pack (step 640). The primary medication scheduling process prompts for the selection of the medication (step 642). After selection the medication (step 642), the primary medication scheduling process 600 then prompts for a dosage selection (step 644). The primary medication scheduling process 600 prompts for an addition of any special instructions (step 646). Next, the schedule medication process 600 prompts for the selection of a date and a time for administration of the medication (step 637). The next prompt pops up, requesting entry to setting reminders as to when to take the medication (step 648). The primary medication scheduling process 600 then prompts for adding medication (step 649).
(125) If there is a blister pack 160 contained in the primary medication tray 110 (as determined by decision step 622), the schedule medication process 600 will ask for a selection of the medication (step 630). After that, the schedule medication process 600 will then prompts for entry of a dosage selection (step 632). The schedule medication process 600 prompts for the addition of any special instructions (step 634). Next, the schedule medication process 600 prompts for the selection of a date and a time for administration of the medication (step 636). The next prompt is for setting reminders as to when to take the medication (step 638). The schedule medication process 600 then presents a prompt for adding medication (step 639).
(126) The secondary medication scheduling portion involves selecting the supplemental medication (step 650). After the supplemental medication has been set, the secondary medication scheduling portion prompts for a dosage selection (step 652). After the dosage selection has been completed, the secondary medication scheduling portion prompts for the addition of any special instructions (step 654). After entry of any special instructions has been completed, the secondary medication scheduling portion prompts the selection of a date and time for dispensing the supplemental medication and links the scheduled date and time for dispensing the supplemental medication with the scheduled date and time for dispensing the medication from the primary tray medication (step 656). After that has been completed, the secondary medication scheduling portion prompts for the addition of reminders (step 658). After that is done, the secondary medication scheduling portion prompts for the refill or addition of supplemental medication (step 659).
(127) A dispense medication process 700 for use in conjunction with the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is presented in
(128) Referring to
(129) A dispense meds from bracelet process 900 for use in conjunction with the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is presented in
(130) The inclusion of two distinct trays, each tray filled with a respective set of medication, provides a unique advantage when dealing with certain types of medication, including by not limited to narcotics, Opioids, other highly addictive medication, and the like. The additional inclusion of a user interface (such as the artificial intelligence avatar 132) enables the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 to acquire additional information from the patient. The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can acquire information pertaining to the patient and use that information to determine whether it is appropriate to dispense the narcotics. In one example, the primary medication tray 110 can be filled with prescribed narcotics, and the secondary medication tray 120 can be filled with less addictive medications. In a condition where the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 acquires information from the patient that introduces suspicion that the narcotic or Opioid is actually medically necessary (as opposed to being requested to support an addiction), the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can dispense medication from the secondary medication tray 120. This can be determined by intelligence within the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, sending acquired patient input to a prescribing physician, or any other suitable decision making process. Details of an application of the dual tray benefits of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 are presented in an exemplary medication dispensing triage process 1000 described in
(131) The exemplary medication dispensing triage process 1000 can be initiated (step 1010) via a request to dispense medication (step 1020). The request can be via a dispense medication request button (not shown), a request through the interactive system, through an application on a mobile device, or any other method of requesting dispensing of medication. Upon initiation of the request to dispense medication (step 1020), the process determines of the request is being submitted within prescribed dispense time (decision step 1030). This is preferably accomplished via software operating on the microprocessor 310. In a condition where the request is submitted within prescribed dispense time (decision step 1030), the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 dispenses the medication from the primary medication tray 110 (step 1032) and subsequently terminates the process (step 1034). In a condition where the request is submitted outside of the prescribed dispense time (decision step 1030), the process notifies an associated user counselor and/or physician(s) (step 1036). In a preferred scenario, the process would notify all parties associated with the treatment of the user, including the user's counselor, the user's medical team, and any other parties involved in the treatment of the user (step 1036). The process would then prompt the user to enter/answer information to determine a validity for dispensing of primary medication at the requested time (step 1038). The user would respond by entering the requested information to determine the validity for dispensing of primary medication at the requested time (step 1039). The requested information can additionally include a request for medical data, such as a urine specimen. The urine specimen can be obtained and processed through a portable urine tester (not shown) that would interact with the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100. Another optional test would be a breathalyzer for testing of alcohol. It is understood that any suitable testing device can interact with the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 to acquire medical information pertaining to the user. Other examples include a blood pressure monitor, a glucose monitor, and the like.
(132) Upon receipt of the responses to the requested information to determine the validity for dispensing of primary medication at the requested time (step 1039), the responses are reviewed to determine whether the responses to the requested information to determine the validity for dispensing of primary medication at the requested time (step 1039) justify a condition for dispensing of primary medication at the requested time (decision step 1040). The decision can be completed by a person or the automated system. The automated system can employ artificial intelligence, wherein the artificial intelligence is developed by learning from previous decisions and results. When determined that the conditions for dispensing of primary medication at the requested time (decision step 1040) are valid, the appropriate medication is dispensed from the primary medication tray 110 (step 1042) and the process terminates (step 1044).
(133) When determined that the conditions for dispensing of primary medication at the requested time (decision step 1040) are not valid, the system can proceed to determine if the situation warrants dispensing of medication from the secondary medication tray 120 (decision step 1050) and/or notification of the prescription counselor of the request for dispensing of medication and the submitted reasons for the request (step 1060). When the situation warrants dispensing of medication from the secondary medication tray 120 (decision step 1050), the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 proceeds with dispensing of medication from the secondary medication tray 120 (step 1052) and the process terminates (step 1054). An example would be dispensing of a non addictive (non-habit forming) prescription or non-prescription analgesic drug when the user requests dispensing of an addictive class II drug (such as narcotics, Opioids and the like). When the situation does not warrant dispensing of medication from the secondary medication tray 120 (decision step 1050), the process terminates (step 1056).
(134) The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is designed to ensure that the user is monitored by appropriate parties during the period of use of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100. The notification of the prescription counselor of the request for dispensing of medication and the submitted reasons for the request (step 1060) ensures that the user is adequately monitored by appropriate parties during the period of use of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100.
(135) Upon notification, the counselor for the user would determine a need for a plan for the patient (user) (decision step 1070). In a condition where the counselor determines that the conditions warrant dispensing of medication from the primary medication tray 110 the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 proceeds in dispensing medication from the primary medication tray 110 (step 1090) and the process terminates (step 1092).
(136) In a condition where the counselor determines that the conditions warrant generation of a plan, the counselor determines an appropriate patient treatment plan (step 1072) and the process proceeds in accordance with the appropriate patient treatment plan (step 1074). The plan may include dispensing of medication. The plan can direct dispensing of primary medication, dispensing of supplemental medication, or both.
(137) In a condition where the plan includes dispensing of medication from the primary medication tray 110 (decision step 1076), the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 proceeds in dispensing medication from the primary medication tray 110 (step 1078) and the process terminates (step 1079). In a condition where the plan includes dispensing of medication from the secondary medication tray 120 (decision step 1076), the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 proceeds in dispensing medication from the secondary medication tray 120 (step 1080) and the process terminates (step 1082).
(138) In a condition where the counselor determines that the conditions warrant dispensing of medication from the primary medication tray 110 (decision step 1070) exclusive of a requirement for generating an appropriate treatment plan (step 1072) the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 proceeds in dispensing medication from the primary medication tray 110 (step 1090) and the process terminates (step 1092).
(139) The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 includes a patient interactive system and two trays 110, 120 carrying differing levels of drugs. This combination provides a unique capability to support a patient/user taking class II medication and/or potentially an addiction. The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 enables dispensing of the class II medication from the primary medication tray 110 or alternative, non-addictive medication from the secondary medication tray 120 upon an intelligence decision. Additionally, the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 is adapted to enable treatment of an accidental overdose.
(140) An exemplary narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100, a controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200, and an associated method of use are described herein. Although the apparatus and methods taught herein are the preferred and alternate embodiments, it can be recognized that other form factors, materials, and methods of achieving the same results can be contrived from the disclosed teachings. The narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 as well as the controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 can be modified to include differing features, a different shape, different user interface devices, activity indicators, such as lights, or any other desired feature and/or function. functions of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can be integrated in the controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200. For example, the rotary design of the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 100 can be arranged in a linear arrangement, where the dispensing mechanism travels along a linear guide. In another example, the controlled medication dispensing bracelet 200 can store the suspected overdose counteracting drug 148 in one of the available bracelet medication compartments 210.
REFERENCE ELEMENT DESCRIPTIONS
Ref. No. Description
(141) 100 narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus 110 primary medication tray 112 primary tray medication compartment 114 top cover 116 dispense compartment 117 dispensing chute 118 punch lever 120 secondary medication tray 122 secondary tray medication compartment 124 secondary medication tray cover 129 supplemental medications, vitamins and other pills 130 display unit 132 artificial intelligence avatar 134 speaker 136 microphone 138 panic button 139 narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus charging contacts 140 front supporting leg 141 front supporting leg storage access element 142 rear supporting leg 143 front supporting leg storage access 148 suspected overdose counteracting drug 150 sliding shafts 152 secondary tray cover locking harness 154 dual tray cover interconnected locking shaft 160 sealed blister pack 162 blister pack medication compartments 170 medication dispensing member 172 medication consumption tracking (fisheye) camera 174 medication dispense monitoring camera 176 biometric monitoring sensor 178 light emitting element 180 reclamation safe 182 reclamation safe repository aperture 184 reclamation safe repository 186 reclamation safe pill collection sweeper 187 reclamation safe pill collection sweeper rotational axis 200 controlled medication dispensing bracelet 210 bracelet medication compartment 212 bracelet compartment door 214 bracelet compartment door motor 220 main bracelet control unit 222 bracelet touch display unit 224 bracelet artificial intelligence Avatar assistant 230 bracelet band 250 storage cart (docking station) 260 storage shelf 262 charging contacts 270 storage cart interactive system 300 secure storage for dispensing of Opioids electronic block diagram 310 microprocessor 320 memory module 322 program 324 database 326 text to speech (TTS), speech to text (STT) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) 328 storage area for triage data 330 power management system 332 battery 334 docking station interface 336 charging circuitry 338 bracelet interface 340 wireless module 342 cellular transmission circuitry 344 Wi-Fi circuitry 346 Bluetooth circuitry 347 RFID circuitry 348 Global Positioning System (GPS)/Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver 349 antenna 350 motor controller 352 for a primary tray motor control circuitry 354 secondary tray motor control circuitry 356 punch lever motor control circuitry 358 bracelet door motor control circuitry 359 dispense door motor control circuitry 360 user interface 362 display controller 364 button 366 speaker and a microphone 368 mobile device 370 sensory system 372 motion sensor 374 noise sensor 376 digital scale 400 track me process 410 track me process initiation step 420 track me process enabled decision step 422 termination step 430 establish geo-fence for the narcotics and Opioids secure storage and dispensing apparatus step 432 establish geo-fence for the Opioid dispensing bracelet step 440 device crosses geo-fence boundary decision step 442 send notiifcation to remote operators/caregivers step 500 locate me process 510 locate me process initiation step 520 locate me process enabled decision step 522 termination step 530 send notification step with dispenser GPS location step 532 send notification step with bracelet GPS location step 600 schedule medication process 610 schedule medication process activation step 620 determine which tray is dispensing medication decision step 622 determine if a blister pack is being used decision step 630 request entry of desired medication step 632 request entry of dosage of medication step 634 request entry of any additional instructions step 636 selection date and time for administration of medication step 638 setting reminder when to take medication step 639 prompt to refill medication step 640 prompt loading of blister pack step 642 request entry of desired medication step 644 request entry of dosage of medication step 646 request entry of any additional instructions step 647 selection date and time for administration of medication step 648 setting reminder when to take medication step 649 prompt to refill medication step 650 promt to select supplemental medication step 652 prompt for a dosage selection of the secondary medication 654 prompt special instructions associated with supplemental medication step 656 prompt selection and linking to the associated primary tray medication date and time 658 prompt to add reminders 659 prompt to refill supplemental medication step 700 dispense medication process 710 dispense medication process initiation step 720 determining the dispense day and time step 722 termination step 730 acquire validation of the user ingesting medication step 740 validation of the user ingesting medication decision step 742 termination step 750 dispense medication from primary tray step 760 supplemental medication linked decision step 762 termination step 770 dispense medication from secondary tray step 800 transport meds to bracelet process 810 transport meds to bracelet process initiation 820 medication dispensing bracelet 822 termination step 830 bracelet docked decision step 832 termination step 840 log bracelet compartment number step 842 activate motor to open bracelet compartment door step 844 select primary medication tray step 846 dispense medication from primary tray to bracelet step 850 determine if supplemental medication is linked decision step 852 activate motor to close bracelet compartment door step 854 termination step 860 dispense supplemental medication step 900 dispense meds from bracelet process 910 dispense meds from bracelet process initiation 920 bracelet enabled decision step 922 termination step 930 determine dispense time decision step 932 termination step 940 user validation process step 942 biometric sensing process 944 facial recognistion process 950 user validated decision step 952 termination step 960 dispense medication from primary tray step 962 identify bracelet compartment to dispense medication step 964 activate motor to open bracelet compartment door step 970 determine if medication has been injested 972 activate motor to close bracelet compartment door step 974 termination step 1000 medication dispensing triage process 1010 medication dispensing triage process initiation 1020 user requests dispensing medication step 1030 request within prescribed dispense time decision step 1032 dispense medication from primary tray step 1034 termination step 1036 notify counselor and/or physicians step 1038 propt dispense validity status information acquisition step 1039 enter dispense validity status information step 1040 validate reasons for prescribing medication decision step 1042 dispense medication from primary tray step 1044 termination step 1050 dispense supplemental medication decision step 1052 dispense supplemental medication step 1054 termination step 1056 termination step 1060 inform prescription counselor step 1070 counselor determines need for patient plan decision step 1072 determine appropriate patient treatment plan step 1074 proceed with appropriate patient treatment plan step 1076 approval to dispense primary medication decision step 1078 dispense medication from primary tray step 1079 termination step 1080 dispense medication from secondary tray step 1082 termination step 1090 dispense medication from primary tray step 1092 termination step