Designing the future of digital healthcare in Ireland

Aoibheann OSullivan

Make the experience of acquiring and using a repeat prescription as easy as possible for patients and pharmacists by providing a digital service that would store the prescription, notify when it needs to be renewed and when the medication needs to be taken.

Aim

Objectives Research best practice models in user friendly digital design as well as digital health systems. Conduct research interviews with patients of varying ages as well as pharmacists and other medical professionals if possible. Create a trustworthy, friendly brand that people will trust with their healthcare information. Create a digital service that simplifies the process of acquiring a repeat prescription and provides patients with information and assistance regarding their particular condition. Map out where my solution would fit into the Irish healthcare system overall.

Research examples

Interview findingsPatients

Have trouble remembering to take medications. Repeat prescription dates sometimes run out too quickly to collect last round of medication. Paying for appointments just to renew prescription is costly and time consuming. Fear that they will lose prescription slips over the course of a few months. Arent properly informed of some of the side effects or dangers of certain medications.

Interview findingsProfessionals

Have to keep repeat prescriptions for forgetful patients. Some older people have trouble remembering to pick up the repeats and this could potentially endanger their lives. Agree appointments to renew prescriptions should not apply to all medications eg. asthma inhalers, contraception. Certain prescriptions require time to get, so patients end up waiting a few days to get the prescription.

How might we...?

Put forgetful patients minds at ease, by reminding them to take medication and to renew their prescriptions. Limit the amount of wasted time for doctors and pharmacists.

How does it work?

Aoibheann OSullivanPatient no. 076490-2627

Allergies:Penicillin, Lactose

Prescription card

Step 1: Doctors office

Step 2: Pharmacy

Dispensary or

Pharmacist?

Step 3: At home

Step 4: Renewals

Conclusion Pharme will hopefully cut down on unessacary doctors appointments and therefore decrease waiting times in GPs. Will limit the amount of time spent waiting in pharmacy for prescriptions as pharmacist will be informed of your need in advance. Use of card will make patients feel more secure with their repeat prescriptions. Reminders will ensure medication is taken, therefore limiting complications with missed dosages.

Thank you!