MEMS^® Button Medication Event
Monitoring System

In the context of medication adherence monitoring, a medication event refers to the act of taking medication according to the prescribed regimen. For instance, when a patient takes a pill, injects a medication, or applies a transdermal patch, it is considered a medication event. Monitoring medication events can provide valuable information about a patient’s adherence to their treatment regimen, such as the timing, frequency, and dosage of medication taken. This information can be used to identify patterns of non-adherence and to develop strategies for improving medication adherence in the future.

A medication event monitoring system (MEMS) is an electronic system used to monitor patient adherence to medication regimens. It typically employs medication adherence packaging and devices to record the date and time medication is dispensed or consumed. MEMS technology accurately tracks medication-taking behavior, enabling researchers to assess patient adherence patterns and make data-driven decisions to improve medication adherence. By providing a detailed record of when medication is taken, MEMS systems can also help identify barriers to adherence and facilitate targeted interventions to support patients adhering to their prescribed medication regimen.

Medication event monitoring is important for several reasons:

Accurate tracking of medication adherence: Medication event monitoring systems accurately record when medication is taken. This can help healthcare providers, and researchers assess patient adherence patterns and identify potential barriers to adherence.

Improved patient outcomes: By monitoring medication events, healthcare providers can identify patients who are not adhering to their medication regimen and provide targeted interventions to support adherence. This can help improve patient outcomes and prevent complications related to non-adherence.

Better data for clinical trials: Medication event monitoring can improve the quality and reliability of data collected during clinical trials by providing more accurate and detailed information about medication adherence. This can help researchers make more informed decisions about the safety and efficacy of new treatments.

More efficient care: By identifying non-adherence early, researchers can take steps to address the issue and avoid unnecessary treatment modifications, hospitalizations, or additional medical expenses.

Although the terms “compliance” and “adherence” are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference in their meanings:

 Patient compliance generally refers to a patient’s willingness to follow a healthcare provider’s recommendations or instructions, including medication regimens, lifestyle modifications, or follow-up appointments. Compliance implies a certain degree of control or authority on the part of the healthcare provider, with the patient being expected to comply with the prescribed treatment plan.

On the other hand, patient adherence emphasizes the patient’s active participation in the treatment process, including their willingness and ability to follow the prescribed medication regimen, lifestyle changes, or self-care practices. Adherence implies a shared responsibility between the patient and the healthcare provider, with both parties working together to achieve optimal treatment outcomes.

In summary, while compliance and adherence refer to a patient’s ability to follow prescribed treatment plans, compliance emphasizes the provider’s authority and the patient’s willingness to comply. In contrast, adherence focuses on the patient’s active participation and shared responsibility in treatment.