AU2024202588A1 - A method and apparatus for securely transporting medication - Google Patents

Abstract

A METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SECURELY TRANSPORTING MEDICATION ABSTRACT Abstract with Fig 2 is: Securely transporting medication by a reusable electronically enabled container for securely transporting medication, the container including: a chamber for receiving and holding a medication; a reusable security closure for securing the chamber to prevent removal of the medication without authorised opening; a security opening means for authorised opening of the reusable security closure; and a communication means for wireless communication; wherein the security opening means opens the reusable security closure upon receipt of a plurality of opening tags according to a predefined sequence and/or timing 2/19 21 22 23 ,Tag Tag Tag 1 2 3 User Container Chemist 13 24 24 12 FIGURE 2

Description

2/19

21 22 23

,Tag Tag Tag 1 2 3

User Container Chemist

13 24 24 12

FIGURE 2

A METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SECURELY TRANSPORTING MEDICATION

Field of the Invention

[001]The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for securely transporting medication.

[002] The invention has been developed primarily for use with providing medication to a remote patient that requires a "prescription" and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

[003] The present invention, in a particular form, relates to systems and methods for providing medications delivery services and, in particular, but not exclusively, to a computer-implemented system and method for prescription home-delivery.

Background of the Invention

[004] Home delivery of goods are a standard approach. There can be delivery of normal articles delivered every day from a distribution centre or shop to a home of a purchaser. These deliveries generally have been by a delivery person in a delivery van or truck or on bicycle or on motorcycle. Such deliveries are not of concern as if the goods are broken, or defective or otherwise not suitable the purchaser can readily send the goods back for a replacement or refund. In this version there is a delivery person who notes and records delivery but is not at all involved in the ascertainment of the state of the goods. Also the delivery generally identifies the receiver but this could merely be to receive an unverified name or receive an unverified signature. The receiving person can do as they wish with the delivered goods.

[005]In a modern version of this delivery is the use of drones. In this way there is a controlled delivery without a delivery person. The benefit of the drone is merely to ensure simple transport from one location directly to a delivery location.

[006] The distribution of medicines and health products is not the same as other goods. You cannot merely deliver to a location and not have any care about the product or the receiver. Merely identifying location as being correct and dispensing at that location means there is no duty of care of the goods. This is not of concern for general goods but is unacceptable for medications and other health goods.

[007] The importance of distributions of medicines and health products is understood by hospitals. This is evident when they need to transport medicines from the central dispensary to patients in different wards throughout the hospital. A special locked container can be used and this can have separate locked separate compartments corresponding to each patient. However the responsibility of dispensing is transferred from the central dispensary specialist personnel to the nurse moving the dispensary container through the wards

[008]Another example of specialist personnel being involved is the transport of human organs for transport or the transfer of blood for testing or for transfusions. The specialist person is with the goods at all times and is in charge of where they go, ensuring correct handling and correct conditions etc. Such an approach is not used in normal deliveries and is not feasible or cost effective.

[009] However ensuring correct transport is only one of the problems with regard to distributing medications and other health goods. It is also important that there is correct matching of medications with a receiver. One medicine for one person could actually be severely detrimental to another person and can even be detrimental for the receiver if the medical condition or the treatment regime has changed.

[0010] It is well-known that people typically visit a doctor's office when they are ill. In cases where medicine is prescribed, the patient visits a pharmacy for filling the prescription. The patient may also visit a grocery store or other retail establishment for purchasing food or other consumer goods of interest, so that the patient prescribed the medication is prepared for a home stay and does not need to make subsequent trips to the store while sick.

[0011] A method and apparatus for providing medication is generally by dispensing at a recognized medicine dispensing facility such as a chemist or pharmacy and under the authority of a pharmacist. In person, the pharmacist can readily check the patient's records, discuss conditions, advise on rules for usage (such as with meals) and advise on effects.

[0012] By the direct communication the pharmacist can control the dispensing of medicines that if used incorrectly are dangerous, check that the prescription is correct and suitable for the patient, ensure that there are no errors in prescription (such as overlooked allergies) and educate the patient on what the medicine is, how it will approach the problem being solved, and the good and bad effects of the medicine and symptoms to look out for if medicine in use appears to be not suitable and the bad effects are overriding the good effects.

[0013] It is important for people to have access to essential medicines including medicines which might only be available with a "prescription". A "prescription" being a doctor authorized prescribing of a particular medicine at a particular dosage. Generally, all medicines, except for simple or common medicines (such as standard dosage paracetamols), require a prescription.

[0014] With reference to Figure 1, there is a need to provide medicines from a pharmacy 12 via a transport means 15 to a patient 13 who is remote from the pharmacist due to a range of reasons which can include:

a) A disaster, such as a pandemic, restricts general movement of people and thereby can restrict patient attending pharmacy;

b) An incapacity of the patient to personally attend the pharmacy or to provide an agent to personally attend;

c) An excessive distance for a patient to attend a pharmacy.

[0015] Throughout this document, by a patient being "remote" it is to be understood that it merely means the patient is not in the presence of the pharmacist dispensing the medicines but is at any location that requires a delivery from the pharmacist to the patient. Although it includes patients being great distances away, they might only be in the next building, street, suburb or town.

[0016] In the time of disasters, such as a pandemic, the strict rules for controlling dispensing of medicines might be broken or changed such that patients could now access their essential medicines without a prescription in the wake of the declared coronavirus major emergency. Patients in urgent need of essential medicines will be able to access supplies without a prescription during the coronavirus pandemic under a new emergency measure. In this case the Minister for Health can apply the Emergency Supply provision enforced in the wake of the declared major emergency, such as the pandemic.

[0017] The Emergency Supply provision is available to Australians who have an immediate need and are unable to access a prescription for their essential medicines, for example a person who has run out, or will run out of their essential medicines before they can obtain a prescription due to demands of COVID-19 on their regular health service.

[0018] However this is limited to being a temporary provision means for patients who are in urgent need and have not been able to access medical services or get to their doctor to receive their usual prescription, they can contact their pharmacist to discuss their options to get their essential medicines without a prescription. Under these circumstances, in Australia, pharmacists will be able to provide patients with drugs on the Australian government controlled Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) or the smallest standard pack of drugs not on the PBS.

[0019] Also pharmacists at pharmacy, chemists and other medicine dispensing facilities will be allowed to dispense different strengths of a product, such as two 20mg tablets in place of a 40mg tablet, or a different dose form of the same medicine, such as a capsule instead of a tablet.

[0020] With such dispensing of medicines, it is important that people do not buy or request more medicines than they need to ensure medicines are available to all Australians who require them.

[0021] Another problem is the delivery of such medicines to patients remote from a pharmacy or unable to attend a pharmacy. People can contact their pharmacist to discuss the options available to have their medicines delivered.

[0022] Pharmacists are limited to dispensing one month's supply at the prescribed dose. The sales of certain over-the-counter medicines are a maximum of one unit per purchase.

[0023] Controlled substances like opioids, some benzodiazepines, stimulants, hydroxchloroquine and certain fertility drugs will not be supplied as part of the provision.

[0024] It can be seen that known prior art methods of dispensing medicines to remote patients in times of disasters has the problems of: a) Relaxing the strict rules and therefore opening the system to errors occurring b) transporting medication by couriers is not secure or controlled by the pharmacist; c) usage and dispensing to unknown patients can result in unsuitable checking of patient history or abuse of use of medicines; d) lack of control of ensuring medication arrives at the patient in a quality condition;

[0025] In normal circumstances it is necessary that the pharmacist must retain responsibility for assessing the appropriateness of the medicines in relation to the full medication history, the final check of dispensed medicines and the counselling of the patient. This is particularly important when the patient is not a skilled person and is therefore fully relying on the expertise of the pharmacist to receive the appropriate medications and health products suitable to the patient and in a effective and not damaged state. Therefore ensuring correct treatment of the patient and not providing wrong medication or spoiled medication that can cause more harm.

[0026] Pharmacists may be assisted in the dispensing of eligible medicines by a dispensary assistant or technician. However, the pharmacist in charge is responsible for ensuring that the dispensary assistant or technician's 'functions are limited to those functions that do not require them to exercise professional judgement or discretion.

[0027] It can be seen that known prior art methods of dispensing medicines to remote patients in times when there is not a disaster has the problems of:

a) Fulfilling the requirements of the strict rules when no disaster exists

b) transporting medication by couriers is not secure or controlled by the pharmacist;

c) usage and dispensing to unknown patients can result in unsuitable checking of patient history or abuse of use of medicines; d) lack of control of ensuring medication arrives at the patient in a quality condition; e) need to provide counselling services to the patient receiving the dispensed medicine and particularly at the time of receiving the medicine; f) fulfilling the function that the courier is only a delivery assistant and not able to exercise professional judgement or discretion.

[0028] Automated machines to distribute filled prescriptions to patients also exist. Exemplary machines are discussed in, for example, Patent Publication No. 20050021175 to Bain; U.S. Pat. No. 7,228,200 to Baker et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,537,155 to Denenberg; and U.S. Pat. No. 7,123,989 to Pinney et al.

[0029] Each of these devices is constructed to dispense, in the manner of a vending machine, filled pharmaceutical prescriptions to patients (or representatives of patients). The machines are positioned such that one side is accessible from within a secure area of a pharmacy, where it can be loaded by a pharmacist or technician, and the other side is accessible from a non-secure area of the pharmacy, where patients can retrieve prescriptions.

[0030] Typically, the patient must provide some identifying information, such as a retrieving the prescription, and also typically provides payment at that time. Ordinarily, these machines are controlled by a controller that is either embedded in or connected with the pharmacy's overall pharmacy management system.

[0031] None of the prior art methods have been found to be completely suitable to meet these needs and are cumbersome. The present invention provides such a method and the overall combination of these features is nowhere disclosed in the prior art cited above which appears to be representative of the general art in this area although it is not intended to be an all-inclusive listing of pertinent prior art patents.

[0032] The present invention seeks to provide a method and apparatus in times of disasters or not, for providing medication to a remote patient, which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least one or more of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0033] Conventionally, the parcels while being delivered can't be accurately monitored and reliable delivery to the desired recipient has not been fool proof.

Moreover, the climatic attributes of the parcel could not be maintained which could be essential in case of delivering medicines, organs, blood etc. None of the prior art systems and methods as mentioned have been found to be completely suitable to meet these needs and are cumbersome.

[0034] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Invention

[0035] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a method and apparatus for securely transporting medication is provided by a reusable electronically enabled container for securely transporting medication, the container including: a chamber for receiving and holding a medication; a reusable security closure for securing the chamber to prevent removal of the medication without authorised opening; a security opening means for authorised opening of the reusable security closure; and a communication means for wireless communication; wherein the security opening means opens the reusable security closure upon receipt of a plurality of opening tags according to a predefined sequence and/or timing.

[0036] Preferably the plurality of opening tags required to be received by security opening means for opening the reusable security closure include a plurality of:

a) a medication user identity verification tag

b) a pharmacist communication verification tag

c) a medication user applicability checklist tag

d) a medication sensed quality tag.

[0037] However preferably the plurality of opening tags required to be received by security opening means for opening the reusable security closure include all of:

a) a medication user identity verification tag

b) a pharmacist communication verification tag

c) a medication user applicability checklist tag

d) a medication sensed quality tag.

[0038] It can be seen that the invention of a method and apparatus provides for securely transporting medication provides the benefit of fulfilling the requirements of the strict rules of a pharmacist when supplying medications to users and to retain control when transporting medication by couriers so that it remains secure and controlled by the pharmacist.

[0039] It can be seen that the use of multiple tags created such as a medication user identity verification tag and a medication user applicability checklist tag ensures safe and controlled dispensing to unknown remote patients and avoidance of medicines being provided without suitable checking of patient history and avoiding abuse of use of medicines.

[0040] Also the pharmacist is ensuring by use of a medication sensed quality tag that the medication is only released to the user if the medication arrives at the patient in a quality condition.

[0041] Also by way of the a pharmacist communication verification tag th pharmacist is fulfilling the need to provide counselling services to the patient receiving the dispensed medicine and particularly at the time of receiving the medicine and fulfilling the function that the courier is only a delivery assistant and not able to exercise professional judgement or discretion.

[0042] The invention therefore provides a system of ordering and delivering medications and other pharmaceutical goods using an app. Method is for both prescription medicines, over the counter medications and all other pharmaceutical goods.

[0043] It can use a mobile application for both IOS and Android devices, in which

a) Consumers will create an account.

b) Consumers will then upload/scan their prescription, an alert will then be sent to the closest pharmacy. Consumers can also purchase over the counter medications or any pharmaceutical goods of their choice.

c) The consumers order will be securely packaged.

d) A similar alert can be sent to nearby drivers, a designated driver will then pick up and deliver the medications/pharmaceutical goods to the consumer.

[0044] Consumers will have the ability to track their orders.

[0045] The present invention discloses a secure and portable container for delivering parcels such as medicines or any other valuables. The container ensures that only the desired recipient is enabled to open the container for receiving the parcel. Further, the parcel such as a medicine etc. is maintained at the temperature and humidity as desired. The container is facilitated with a plurality of sensors for monitoring the climatic attributes of the parcel along with its accurate physical location.

[0046] None of the prior art systems and methods as mentioned have been found to be completely suitable to meet these needs and are cumbersome. However, our preliminary search shows that there exist portable devices for secure delivery of parcels such as medicine.

[0047] The present innovation provides a more efficient and accurate method for secure delivery in comparison to the traditional methods. It is easy to assemble and use and can be setup by a single user. The present innovation provides a portable, reusable, self disinfecting container that ensures reliable delivery.

[0048] The present invention describes a reusable electronically enabled container and a method for securely delivering a parcel such as medicines, the container includes a chamber for receiving and holding a deliverable, a reusable security closure for securing the chamber to prevent removal of the deliverable without authorized opening, a security opening means for authorized opening of the reusable security closure, a communication means for wireless communication, such that the security opening means opens the reusable security closure upon either receipt of a plurality of opening tags or according to a predefined sequence and/or timing. The container includes temperature controlling means for controlling the temperature in the container. Further, a Plurality of sensors are provided for determining the presence or absence of the deliverable, Temperature, Humidity, and Container location

[0049] This is a portable system with comparably smaller size that provides advantage over conventional methods. The competitive advantages include:

• Secure and reliable

• Easy to use

• Provides high accuracy

• Reduces human effort

• Overcomes problems due to epidemics or remoteness of destination

• Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0050] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Fig.1 is a diagrammatic view of a delivery system highlighting the limitations of the system; Fig. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of a method and apparatus for securely transporting medication in a system such as in Fig. 1 by securely transporting medication using a reusable electronically enabled container in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 is diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a reusable electronically enabled container for securely transporting medication in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 is a diagrammatic view of the operation of the microcontroller and security opening means of a reusable electronically enabled container in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 5 is a reusable electronically enabled container in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention with the security closure inbuilt into the container; Fig. 6 is a reusable band for encircling a container to form an electronically enabled container in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention with the security closure inbuilt into the container; Fig. 7 is a diagrammatic view of a reusable electronically enabled container in accordance with a preferred embodiment showing medication hermetically sealed within container with associated sensor;

Fig. 8 is as diagrammatic perspective view of a reusable electronically enabled container for securely transporting medication in accordance with a preferred further embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 9 is a diagrammatic view of the container of Fig. 8 in an open form; Fig. 10 is a diagrammatic view of the container of Fig. 8 in a closed carryable form; Fig. 11 is a diagrammatic exploded view of the container of Fig. 8;

Fig, 12 is a diagrammatic view of a detail of the separable refrigeration unit of the container of Fig. 8 in an open form; Fig. 13 is a diagrammatic view of the tag matcher module to receive tags and determine matching to enable security opening means to release security closure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 14 is a diagrammatic view of the various connection forms between the pharmacist and the container in providing the plurality of tags to the security opening means; Fig. 15 is a diagrammatic view of the method of securely delivering medication in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Figures 16 to 19 are diagrammatic views of the use of tags ion the system of the method of securely delivering medication in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention such as in Fig.7 or 8.

Description of Preferred Embodiments

[0051] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[0052] Referring to the drawings there is shown securely transporting medication container 11 for transporting a medication 14 from a chemist 12 to a user 13 while allowing the pharmacist at the chemist to be in full control of the delivery and not rely on the delivery means or delivery person to fulfil the duties of a pharmacist in correctly dispensing medication.

[0053] The present invention provides in one form a method and apparatus for securely transporting medication is provided by a reusable electronically enabled container for securely transporting medication, the container including: a chamber for receiving and holding a medication; a reusable security closure for securing the chamber to prevent removal of the medication without authorised opening; a security opening means for authorised opening of the reusable security closure; and a communication means for wireless communication; wherein the security opening means opens the reusable security closure upon receipt of a plurality of opening tags according to a predefined sequence and/or timing.

[0054] Preferably the plurality of opening tags required to be received by security opening means for opening the reusable security closure include a plurality of:

a) a medication user identity verification tag

b) a pharmacist communication verification tag

c) a medication user applicability checklist tag

d) a medication sensed quality tag.

[0055] However preferably the plurality of opening tags required to be received by security opening means for opening the reusable security closure include all of:

a) a medication user identity verification tag

b) a pharmacist communication verification tag

c) a medication user applicability checklist tag

d) a medication sensed quality tag.

[0056] It can be seen by Fig. 2 that the first tag 21 of a medication user identity verification tag can be an identity tag that is delivered directly from the chemist 12 to the user 13, such that the user 13 can present the tag at the time the container 11 being the reusable electronically enabled container 11 arrives physically from the chemist with the medication 14 therein.

[0057] The second tag 22 of a pharmacist communication verification tag can be provided by the pharmacist at the chemist12 to the container 11

a) Before the container leaves the chemist

b) While the container is physically in transport between the chemist 12 and user 13

c) Or when the container 11 arrives at the user 13.

[0058] The communication of this tag can therefore be by direct input at the chemist or transmitted digitally to the container or even transmitted to the container via the user 13. the tag can be generated when the communication between the user 13 and the pharmacist at the chemist 12 has been fulfilled according to the dispensing requirements.

[0059] The third tag 23 of a medication user applicability checklist tag can be generated and transmitted in a similar way to the second tag. However as it is the relevance of the medication to the user and whether they have used the medication before and know its benefits and side effects it can be that the container has a keyboard for answering a set of questions. If those questions require a yes to the prior use of the medication and yes to knowledge of the required way of taking the dosage and yes to the knowledge of the side effects and what to look for then this tag can be in another form created at the container 11.

[0060] The fourth tag 24 can be a medication sensed quality tag and be connected to one or a plurality of sensors that are associated with the container and therefore can directly transmit to the container and allow the tag to be generated if the conditions are maintained within predetermined criteria and sensing has not uncovered anything that would show that the medication has not arrived at the user in top quality. If this is the case the tag is created and the pharmacist has controlled that only the good quality product is released to the user 13 and not an affected medication where a tag would not be created and the medication would not be released. If this occurs the locked container with the affected medication would need to be returned to the pharmacist at the chemist 12. Again the pharmacist is maintaining the control as is required of medications that can be dangerous to users if the wrong user, or not quality product and can be disposed off in a correct manner so as to not fall into the wrong hands and harm others.

[0061] Container

[0062] The container 11 in general, such as in Fig. 3 comprises a chamber 31 within which is held the medicationl4. The container 11 has a reusable security closure 32 such as a digital lock that can be selectively opened by the security opening means 33 if certain conditions are met as determined in the receipt of tags 21, 22, 23 and 24. The micro-controller 35 assists in enabling this process.

[0063] As shown in Figures 5 and 6 the container 11 can be a rigid reusable container with a built-in lock 36 as the reusable security closure 32. However in another form the container can have a lockable band 38 that closes the container and therefore in combination acts as the reusable electronically enabled container 11.

[0064] Tag inputs

[0065] The tags 21, 22, 23 and 24 as inputs can be in various forms and received in various forms by the container 11. The forms include the tags being all or one or a plurality in one of:

a) An electronic tag transmittable over a digital network;

b) A physical tag that can operate in close quarters to the container and readable by a tag reader 37. This can include active or passive RFID tags or active or passive NFC tags

c) An electronic keyboard on the container for directly receiving and creating at the container a digital tag in response to received input on the keyboard such as answers to selected questions;

[0066] These tag inputs are then assessed by the micro-controller 35 so as to enable the security opening means 33 to open the security closure 32 and allow the intended user access to their delivered medication 14.

[0067] Referring to Fig 4 there is shown the micro-controller operation 61 in receiving the input 62 of the tags and reviewer 64 determining if tags are received in correct sequence as per the sequencer 63 so that for example the user is first determined if they are the proven recipient before moving on to determine other issues of the other tags that are associated with that user, a particular medication for that user at this time and a particular delivery of that medication at this time.

[0068] The further analysis can require a formatter 65 to provide the sensed tag information or presence or results to be provided in a form that thereby can be assessed at the tag matcher 66 in comparison to the predetermined acceptable conditions and allowable variations to the tags 21, 22, 23 and 24 and thereby with the unlock signaller 67 provide an output signal to unlock or not.

[0069] Sensors

[0070] The medication sensed quality tag 24 can be created following the sensor 41

[0071] Referring to Fig 7 the sensors 41 can be one or more of:

a) An environmental sensor such as for sensing:

i) Moisture;

ii) Sunlight / UV rays

iii) Heat

iv) Temperature

v) Pressure / crush value

b) A tamperproof sensor to assess if the product has arrived in exactly the same condition as when dispatched by the chemist

c) A biological sensor such as a general sensor of viruses or bacteria or or pathogens or germs or a specific sensor of a biological material of concern or of relevance to the medication, location or user;

d) A quality assessment sensor that the quality of the medication is maintained as the medication has been retained in the allowable limits throughout the entire time of delivery.

[0072] In a particular version of Fig. 7 as an example the medication is prewrapped in a sealed wrap 43 which could be any one of:

a) A shrink wrap

b) A pressure wrap

c) A vacuum wrap

d) Or an otherwise hermetically sealed wrap

e) The medication in its wrap can have a penetration sensor 44 suitable to its particular wrap and acting as an indication of tamperproof, environmental stability and/or breakage of sealed wrap. In this way the quality of the medication can be assessed by the sensed results and a suitable medication sensed quality tag generated and provided to the security opening means 33 via micro-controller 35

[0073] Referring to Fig. 13 the tag matcher 70 operation of the container 11 through the micro-controller 35 to the security opening means 33 is by tag receiver receiving the tags 21, 22, 23, 24 by the tag receiver 71 which is then assessed by the reviewer 72 with reference to the allowed criteria or relevance 73 that can be assessed in situ or remotely so as to determine if tags are acceptable and that an output signal should occur and be instructed by the output 74.

[0074] Examples

[0075] Example 1

[0076] Referring to Figs 3 to 6 there is shown a container having a locking band as a reusable security closure that can be placed around the container and adjusted to prevent opening until security opening means releases the lock of the locking band

[0077] The reusable security closure has a digital lock with a visual reader such that the security opening means receives a visual code upon receipt of a plurality of opening tags according to a predefined sequence and/or timing.

[0078] The visual code is provided by a plurality of visual codes for each tag or a combination of tags, such as by QR codes.

[0079] The user receives an identity code digitally which through user's smartphone can be displayed to the visual reader to identify the user is the correct person for receipt. This QR code can be standard for the user and remain the identity tag of the user for multiple uses.

[0080] The user can receive a further QR code from the pharmacist upon completion of discussion with the pharmacist about this particular usage. This communication could reflect the ordering of the pharmaceutical products.

[0081] The user can include the further tag of the medication user applicability checklist can be an active set of questions provided by the microcontroller and generating a code as a QR tag if the questions are answered in an acceptable manner.

[0082] The medication sensed quality tag can be a sensor attached to the medication which senses the at least one environmental condition of the medication. That can be a moisture sensor, heat sensor and UV sensor or a combination thereof.

This sensor can send a tag directly to the sensor or to the user in a further QR code which is presented to visual reader of the security opening means.

[0083] Example 2

[0084] The visual reader can be a reader of a physical print of the QR code or similar code. These print codes can be generated when an app takes the user through a number of questions requiring suitable answers.

[0085] Example 3

[0086] The creation of the pharmacist communication verification tag can occur at the chemist in that a patient can consult the doctor via tele-health or doctor visit, and the doctor has an option of sending E-Prescriptions direct to the pharmacy of the patient's choice.

[0087] The pharmacist communication verification tag is received by the security opening means but may not operate until it is reviewed in sequence by the microcontroller. Therefore not until the medication user identity tag is received and reviewed and matched does the pharmacist communication verification tag is reviewed and matched and then in coordination has an effect on the opening means.

[0088] Example 4

[0089] A container having an inbuilt lock with an active receiving microcontroller connected to the lock as a reusable security closure and prevents opening until the microcontroller acting as the security opening means releases the lock.

[0090] The reusable security closure has a lock such that the security opening means receives a code upon receipt of a plurality of opening tags in the form of entered codes into the microcontroller according to a predefined sequence and/or timing.

[0091] The code is provided by a plurality of entries into the microcontroller.

[0092] The user receives an identity code digitally which through user's smartphone can be entered to the microcontroller to identify the user is the correct person for receipt. This code can be standard for the user and remain the identity tag of the user for multiple uses.

[0093] The user can receive a further code from the pharmacist upon completion of discussion with the pharmacist about this particular usage. This communication could reflect the ordering of the pharmaceutical products.

[0094] The user can include the further tag of the medication user applicability checklist. This checklist can be an active set of questions provided by the microcontroller and generating a code as a tag if the questions are answered in an acceptable manner.

[0095] Example 5

[0096] The container can have an inbuilt keyboard and display that allows entry of answers to displayed questions which are internally received by the microcontroller. If the answers match or are within the range of acceptable answers then the microcontroller can generate a tag that can be used as an opening tag for the security lock.

[0097] In one form the questions can relate to whether the user has used this medicine previously and therefore knows its side effects and what to look for. In that case a medication user applicability checklist tag can be generated and supplied to the security opening.

[0098] It can be noted that in this form there is not a need for this element to be communicated back to the pharmacist. Instead on presentation of all of the required opening tags the Therefore I the identity tag had not identified the user the

[0099] Overall the opening tags work together to control the delivery of the medication to the user under the control of the pharmacist.

[00100] Example 6

[00101] A container having an inbuilt lock with a reactive mechanism connected to the lock as a reusable security closure and prevents opening until the microcontroller acting as the security opening means releases the lock.

[00102] The reusable security closure has a lock such that the security opening means receives a code upon receipt of a plurality of opening tags in the form of entered codes into the microcontroller according to a predefined sequence and/or timing.

[00103] The code is provided by a plurality of entries into the microcontroller.

[00104] The user receives an identity code digitally which through user's smartphone can be entered to the microcontroller to identify the user is the correct person for receipt. This code can be standard for the user and remain the identity tag of the user for multiple uses.

[00105] The user can receive a further code from the pharmacist upon completion of discussion with the pharmacist about this particular usage. This communication could reflect the ordering of the pharmaceutical products.

[00106] The user can include the further tag of the medication user applicability checklist. This checklist can be an active set of questions provided by the microcontroller and generating a code as a tag if the questions are answered in an acceptable manner.

[00107] Example 7

[00108] The reactive mechanism comprises active or passive RFID tags; or the reactive mechanism comprises active or passive NFC tags.

[00109] Example 8

[00110] Software will have a QR Code that is generated on every order. The QR Code does the following- generated QR will be sent to the customer. The Pharmacy will affix the QR Hard copy on the packaged order.

[00111] Customer scans the QR upon receipt of the order and on Scanning at delivery, the code sends signal back to pharmacy on the status of the order, vis a vis whether tempered with or green thumbs to indicate correct supply.

[00112] Example 9

[00113] A container having an inbuilt lock with a receiver connected to the lock as a reusable security closure and prevents opening until the microcontroller acting as the security opening means releases the lock.

[00114] The medication is shrink wrapped. The sensor can be within the shrink wrap which provides substantial protection against the elements. However it is not sealed and thereby the sensor within the wrapped package maintains

[00115] The reusable security closure has a lock such that the security opening means receives a code upon receipt of a plurality of opening tags in the form of entered codes into the microcontroller according to a predefined sequence and/or timing.

[00116] The code is provided by a plurality of entries into the microcontroller.

[00117] The user receives an identity code digitally which through user's smartphone can be entered to the microcontroller to identify the user is the correct person for receipt. This code can be standard for the user and remain the identity tag of the user for multiple uses.

[00118] The user can receive a further code from the pharmacist upon completion of discussion with the pharmacist about this particular usage. This communication could reflect the ordering of the pharmaceutical products.

[00119] The user can include the further tag of the medication user applicability checklist. This checklist can be an active set of questions provided by the microcontroller and generating a code as a tag if the questions are answered in an acceptable manner.

[00120] Example 10

[00121] The medication can be vacuum wrapped. In this way a sensor can be attached to the vacuum wrap to determine if the vacuum has been broken. As long as the vacuum is unbroken then the issues of moisture or air deterioration will not be a problem.

[00122] A secondary sensor could still be in the container or associated with the primary sensor to detect other environmental conditions.

[00123] Example 11

[00124] Containers have self-cleaning mechanism (UV Rays) activated once the product is removed

• Wireless communication software for opening the dispenser

• Fitted with sensors to sense different parameters like, presence/absence of product in chamber, environmental conditions i.e. Temperature, Humidity, Liquid or Light.

• Fitted with Temperature controls instrumentation

[00125] The medication can be otherwise hermetically sealed. This can be the container as a whole is sealed to avoid any penetration of environmental issues.

[00126] This can include the container being heat resistant and UV resistant. The sensor can then be an opening sensor.

[00127] Example 12

[00128] The container can be a sealed container having an inert material such as Helium gas that surrounds and protects the medication. A sensor can detect a leakage of Helium by a pressure comparator or by reviewing when opening the density of the gas in the container. If suitable density to show Helium and not the heavier density of air, then it is known there has not been environmental damage.

[00129] Example 13

[00130] Referring to Figs 8 to 12 there is shown a reusable electronically enabled container 51 for securely transporting parcels including medication, the container including:

i. an openable body 52 forming a chamber 53 for receiving and holding a deliverable

ii. a reusable security closure 61 for securing the chamber to prevent removal of the deliverable without authorized opening

iii. a digital security opening means 63 for authorized opening of the reusable security closure

iv. a communication means for wireless communication

such that the security opening means opens the reusable security closure upon either receipt of a plurality of opening tags or according to a predefined sequence and/or timing.

[00131] The container includes sensors and temperature controlling means 62 for controlling the temperature in the container by a connectable refrigeration unit 58 maintaining the correct environment in the chamber 53 through circulation holes 56 and peripheral seals 57 around the lid. A plurality of sensors is provided for determining the presence or absence of the deliverable, and Temperature, Humidity, and Container location.

[00132] The method including the steps of:

a) Providing and locking a deliverable into a reusable security closure of a container

b) creating a plurality of opening tags

c) Transporting the deliverable to the desired recipient

d) Securely delivering the deliverable by monitoring the physical location of the container

e) Monitoring the quality and condition of the medication so as to be delivered in quality state

[00133] The opening tags of the container to be available when delivered to the user enabling the security opening means to open the reusable security closure upon receipt and matching of the plurality of opening tags according to a predefined sequence and/or timing to thereby release medication to the user. In essence the combination of the tags must cooperate, or the medication is not released. In this way the pharmacist has ensured the medication matches the receiver, is suitable for the receiver, is in a good condition and has not gone astray to the wrong person. Further the pharmacist has ensured by the system that the latest information has been provided to the receiver including checking if any health issues and advising of side effects of the medications and what actions to be taken if a reaction occurs.

[00134] Benefits

[00135] It can be seen that the creation of opening tags can occur at different locations and at different times and However they arrive at the security opening of the container when it is delivered to the user and the medication only released from the container when the opening tags are verified.

[00136] Referring to Fig. 13 there is shown that the four tags of a medication user identity verification tag, a pharmacist communication verification tag, a medication user applicability checklist tag and a medication sensed quality tag are supplied to the security opening means of the container to operate together to provide an opening sequence to open the container. However, the tags can be provided at different times and by different pathways to each other and by pathways which can be with or separate to the physical pathway of the delivery of the package from the chemist to the user.

[00137] A major benefit of this approach is that the pharmacist is retained in control of the process and in the control of the medication and distribution of the medication to the user.

[00138] Referring to Figures 15 to 19 the invention allows a method for home delivery of prescribed medication, comprising:

a) Processing of a prescription from the mobile app;

b) purchasing at least one item;

c) assigning order to a pharmacy closest to the client location;

d) tracking of the order;

e) delivery of the order to client;

wherein delivering of the prescribed medication is in a temperature-controlled device.

[00139] The method can further include identifying and comparing a current location of the user and the closest location to identify a pharmacy for processing the prescription.

[00140] In particular there is a method of securely delivering medication, the method including the steps of:

• Providing and locking a medication into a reusable security closure, including sealing the medication within either:

• a reusable sealable container; or

• a sealable container.

• Creating a plurality of opening tags Transporting the medication by a medication transporting entity

• Securely delivering the medication to a medication receiving entity

• Transporting the opening tags to the container to be available when delivered to the user

• The container receiving the plurality of the opening tags and

• Enabling the security opening means to open the reusable security closure upon receipt and matching of a plurality of opening tags according to a predefined sequence and/or timing to thereby release medication to the user

[00141] In some embodiments, the invention relates to following steps:

a) An online order is placed using the prescription through the app.

b) Both the pharmacy and customer will have the tracking number immediately after placing an order. The tracking number will show the tracking number and vehicle registration or any other identification number to recognize the correct vehicle making the delivery. Tracking of movement of products from the pharmacy to the recipient. The app will be used for tracking the products, the process from packaging, pick up, en-route, name of driver and car registration will be made available to the customer. Movement of the driver and approximate time showing will be accessed by the pharmacy and the customer.

c) All drivers would have police clearance with the intention of identifying drivers with a drug abuse history.

d) It will be ensured that packaging is tamperproof and non-transparent to protect customer privacy and contamination of products. Only the pharmacy and the customer will be aware of the products.

e) All the products that need to be refrigerated will be transported in temperature controlled containers and clearly labeled to be refrigerated immediately after delivery.

[00142] In summary, the present invention reduces the likelihood of prescription abuse, improves operational efficiency for pharmacies, elevates convenience level while reducing costs for patients, accelerates competitiveness in the pharmacy industry, enhances safety measures for patients, and simultaneously provides a viable approach for helping patients in-case of emergency or disability.

Interpretation Embodiments:

[00143] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[00144] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[00145] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

Different Instances of Objects

[00146] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives "first", "second", "third", etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

Specific Details

[00147] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Terminology

[00148] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

Comprising and Including

[00149] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[00150] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

Scope of Invention

[00151] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[00152] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Industrial Applicability

[00153] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the supply of medication industries.

Claims (43)

Claims The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A reusable electronically enabled container for securely transporting medication, the container including:

a. a chamber for receiving and holding a medication;

b. a reusable security closure for securing the chamber to prevent removal of the medication without authorised opening;

c. a security opening means for authorised opening of the reusable security closure; and

d. a communication means for wireless communication;

wherein the security opening means opens the reusable security closure upon

i. receipt of a plurality of opening tags

ii. according to a predefined sequence and/or timing.

2. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein the plurality of opening tags required to be received by security opening means for opening the reusable security closure include a plurality of:

a. a medication user identity verification tag

b. a pharmacist communication verification tag

c. a medication user applicability checklist tag

d. a medication sensed quality tag.

3. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein the plurality of opening elements required to be received by security opening means for opening the reusable security closure include at least all of:

a. a medication user identity verification tag

b. a pharmacist communication verification tag

c. a medication user applicability checklist tag d. a medication sensed quality tag.

4. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 2 or 3 wherein at least one or more of the tags are digitally applied.

5. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 2 or 3 wherein at least one or more of the tags are digitally communicable via the communication means.

6. A reusable electronically enabled container according to any one of claims 2 to 5 wherein the security opening means receives the medication user identity verification tag and compares to the defined user and thereby verifying the identity of the user receiving the container is the correct recipient for the medication.

7. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 6 wherein the security opening means receives the medication user identity verification tag by direct digital receipt from the user.

8. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 7 wherein the medication user identity verification tag is received by direct digital receipt from the user by:

a. active or passive RFID tags; b. active or passive NFC tags; 9. A reusable electronically enabled container according to any one of claims 2 to 8 wherein the security opening means receives the pharmacist communication verification tag and thereby confirms there has been communication directly between the pharmacist and the user receiving the container and thereby the pharmacist has fulfilled a required communication list relative to the user and the medication.

10. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein the pharmacist communication verification tag is provided when it is determined by the pharmacist that they have fulfilled a required communication list including one or more of:

a. Review of user history

b. Review of user allergies

c. Review of prescription d. Review of user's prior use of medication; e. Other medication of the user f. Details of use of the medication g. Communication with client to check history h. Discussion with user to advise of i. side effects to be expected and tolerated; ii. side effects to be expected and if at certain level to be reviewed; and iii. side effects to be looking for and urgently taking action if they occur.

11. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 10 wherein the communication between pharmacist and user is separate to the delivery of the container and generates the pharmacist communication verification tag for receipt by the security opening means.

12. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 10 wherein the security opening means receives the pharmacist communication verification tag before delivery.

13. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 10 wherein the security opening means receives the pharmacist communication verification tag after delivery by wireless receipt by the communication means.

14. A reusable electronically enabled container according to any one of claims 2 to 13 wherein the security opening means receives the medication user applicability checklist tag and compares to the medication user applicability checklist and thereby verifying the suitability of the medication to the user receiving the container is the correct medication.

15. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 14 wherein the medication user applicability checklist tag is created by the security opening means receiving responses directly through one or more of:

a. Keyboard b. Touchpad c. switchpad

16. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 14 wherein the medication user applicability checklist tag is created by the security opening means receiving responses wirelessly through one or more of:

a. Smartphone

b. Digital communication

c. Communication from remote locations received through the communication means of the container.

17. A reusable electronically enabled container according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein the container includes at least one sensor each adapted to sense one or more of the following parameters in the container,

a. The presence or absence of the medication;

b. The type of medication;

c. At least one environmental condition of the medication; and

d. The secure condition of the container.

18. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 17 wherein sensing of the type of medication is a direct sensing of the chemicals of the medication.

19. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 17 wherein sensing of the type of medication is an indirect sensing of the identification of the medication.

20. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 17,18 or 19 wherein the medication sensed quality tag for use by the security opening means.

21. A reusable electronically enabled container according to any one of claims 17 to 20 wherein the at least one environmental condition of the medication includes one or more of:

a. Temperature

b. Humidity c. Liquid d. Light

22. A reusable electronically enabled container according to any one of claims 17 to 21wherein sensing includes whether the container is sealed by the reusable security seal.

23. A reusable electronically enabled container according to any one of claims 17 to 21 wherein sensing includes Container location.

24. A reusable electronically enabled container according to any one of claims 17 to 21 wherein sensing includes Communication means for communicating one or more of the sensed parameters in real time.

25. A reusable electronically enabled container according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein, the container includes means to verify the identity of an entity that is dispatching the medication

26. A reusable electronically enabled container according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein, the container includes means to verify the identity of an entity that is transporting the medication

27. A reusable electronically enabled container according to anyone of the preceding claims wherein, the container includes means to verify the identity of an entity that is receiving the medication

28. A reusable electronically enabled container according to anyone of the preceding claims 1 wherein, the sensor is adapted to sense the insertion or removal of a prescription item into or from the container, respectively

29. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein, the container is adapted to receive and digitally store, or assist in the reception of and digital storage of, instructions from the entity dispatching the medication

30. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein, the container is adapted to inform the entity receiving the medication the instructions from the entity dispatching the medication, or assist in informing the entity receiving the medication of the instructions received from the entity dispatching the medication

31. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein, the container is adapted to confirm that the entity receiving the medication has received the instructions from the entity dispatching the medication, or assist in confirming that the entity receiving the medication has received the instructions from the entity dispatching the medication

32. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein, the container is adapted to communicate, or assist in the communication of instructions received from the entity dispatching the medication

33. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein, the container includes temperature controlling means for controlling the temperature in the container

34. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein, the reusable security seal is sealable only after verification of the identity of the entity dispatching the medication

35. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein, the reusable security seal is openable only after verification of the identity of the entity receiving the medication

36. A reusable electronically enabled container according to claim 1 wherein the technology to be used to implement the above will be selected from the following: a. Active or passive RFID/NFC tags; b. GPS sensors; c. mobile computing devices on the person of the relevant entity that dispatches, transports or receives the medication; biometric scanners; d. microphones and/or speakers inbuilt into the container.

37. A reusable electronically enabled tag for use in the secure transportation of medication, the tag including:

38. A sensor adapted to sense one or more of the following parameters in the container, while the container is sealed by the reusable security seal a. The presence or absence of the medication b. Temperature c. Humidity d. Liquid e. Light f. Container location

39.A method and apparatus for securely transporting medication according to claim 1 wherein the predefined input framework identifying a plurality of medications includes a plurality of categories includes a plurality of the sensed categories selected from: a. The presence or absence of the medication b. Temperature c. Humidity d. Liquid e. Light f. Container location

40.A method and apparatus for securely transporting medication according to claim 1 wherein the cost of a confirmed user defined provision of a medication application is automatically determined by relevance to the selection of medications of.

41.A method and apparatus for securely transporting medication for securely transporting medication including the steps of:

a. Providing a predefined input framework identifying a plurality of medications for selection by the user in their respective user particular input wherein a random selection of a provided medication from each category matching a user particular input of the same medications in each category defines the opening requirements

b. Providing a plurality of categories for defining at least one selection must be made in each category;

c. Providing a plurality of medications each allocated to one only of the plurality of categories;

d. Receiving the user defined provision of a medication application from each of a plurality of users over a digital communication system connected to an access port for upload to an online computerised means adapted for following computerised instructions according to a freeform definition and control of a provision of a medication;

e. randomly selecting a provided medication from each category;

f. comparing the plurality of provided medications from each category to each of confirmed user defined provision of a medication application wherein a random selection of a provided medication from each category matching a user particular input of the same medications in each category defines the opening requirements.

42.A system for providing medication securely including the steps of:

a. Securing the medication

b. Providing release of the medication upon receipt of a plurality of opening tags according to a predefined sequence and/or timing.

wherein the plurality of opening tags required to be received by security opening means for opening the reusable security closure include a plurality of:

i. a medication user identity verification tag ii. a pharmacist communication verification tag iii. a medication user applicability checklist tag iv. a medication sensed quality tag.

43.A method of securely delivering medication, the method including the steps of: a. Providing and locking a medication into a reusable security closure, including sealing the medication within either: i. a reusable sealable container; or ii. a sealable container. b. Creating a plurality of opening tags Transporting the medication by a medication transporting entity c. Securely delivering the medication to a medication receiving entity d. Transporting the opening tags to the container to be available when delivered to the user e. The container receiving the plurality of the opening tags and f. Enabling the security opening means to open the reusable security closure upon receipt and matching of a plurality of opening tags according to a predefined sequence and/or timing to thereby release medication to the user