Patent ID: 10617605

Abstract:
Arrangements are provided for “smart” functionality such as for tracking medication use to determine adherence, without requiring smart containers therefor. A bin is provided for receiving used/empty containers, packaging, or other discarded material incidental to the use of the medication. Sensors generate signals when the material is deposited within the bin, and a processor determines whether those signals correspond with the incidental material of interest. The processor also may identify when signals correspond with other, spurious material deposited in the bin. Responsive to a positive correspondence, a contextual event such as deposition of a used vial is stored, displayed, communicated, and/or otherwise registered. Contextual events, times therefor, lack of same, etc. are considered to provide authenticated determinations of adherence to a medication regimen. Authenticated adherence determinations may support medication adherence monitoring, medication adherence itself, and/or medication outcomes for patient treatment, clinical trials, etc.