Smart pillbox reminds patients to take medications

Studies show between 1/3 and 1/2 of patients don't take medications as directed. Now, a group of entrepreneurs in Philadelphia has an idea that can help.

Nick Valilis understands how this can happen.

"During my first week of medical school, I was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia," he explained. "I went from taking zero medications to 10+ medications."

His struggle with those drugs inspired Nick and some classmates to create a "smart" pill-box.

It has compartments for days and times, but also electronic reminders.

"Our device senses when patients miss doses, and can trigger automated text, phone, or email reminders to patients or loved ones," said Valilis.

The box works by WiFi anywhere in the Verizon area.

It's now the focus of a pilot program with Penn Medicine and Independence Blue Cross.

IBC was drawn by the reminder features - and the ready-to-use trays.

"By having the pharmacist pre-fill the trays, that takes that variable out of the equation," said Dr. Ron Brooks.

Nick is now cancer-free, but still takes 5 drugs a day - and relies on this pillbox.

The name of their company is "Tower View Health." It was part of the "Dream It Health" program, which helps early-stage companies bring their ideas to fruition.

For more information on the pillbox, visit: www.TowerViewHealth.com