Echo, the medication management app, has launched a new function enabling carers to order and oversee the medication of relatives or friends with long-term health conditions.
Carers simply add a friend or relative to the app, select their NHS GP, and request a repeat prescription on their behalf.
Once approved by the patient’s GP, the medication is dispensed and delivered to the patient’s door free of charge.
The app helps carers to monitor whether their loved one has taken their medication and alerts them to order more when supplies run low.
Previously, only patients with repeat prescriptions have been able to use the app to manage their own medication.
It’s estimated there are currently seven million carers in the UK and this is expected to rise by a further 3.4 million by 2030.
This new feature supports carers by providing the convenience of one platform to manage medication for multiple patients, promoting better medication adherence and outcomes.
Technology has a huge role to play in care delivery, particularly when it comes to improving access to services in a safe and cost-effective way
John Craig, chief executive of NHS Care City, said: “We are delighted to see that Echo is extending its service to carers.
"Technology has a huge role to play in care delivery, particularly when it comes to improving access to services in a safe and cost-effective way.
"Applications like Echo provide practical, easy-to-use solutions that fit into existing care pathways.
" Medication management is a significant challenge for carers and clinicians alike, so we are excited at Echo's potential."
Stephen Bourke, Co-founder of Echo, added: “This was the number one feature request from our existing users.
We hope that by having the app, Echo users will be feel better able to monitor and ensure their loved one is properly adhering to their medication and, in doing so, give them some peace of mind
"Whether it’s an elderly parent, partner, or simply a friend needing support; care of those close to you can be a complicated – and often emotional – issue.
"Many patients with long-term health conditions require several different types of medication over the course of a day.
"Often, it just isn’t possible for them to reach this medication – whether it’s down to bad anxiety preventing them from leaving the house, issues with mobility, or simply time.
"We hope that by having the app, Echo users will be feel better able to monitor and ensure their loved one is properly adhering to their medication and, in doing so, give them some peace of mind.”