Abstract: An automated method and system for distributing prescription vials from upstream locations of a pharmacy to various downstream destinations using a stacked configuration of outbound lanes so that vials will enter the first outbound lane that is not blocked. The distribution table of the present invention has a lower portion having outbound lanes and an upper portion having outbound lanes and where the table is adapted to move vials in a loop pattern around the lower and upper portions.

Abstract: A computerized pain visualization system and method. A web-based application and interface allows individuals to anonymously share information about where they hurt or specific regions of the body that are most worrisome to them. The web-based application comprises a visual interface that supports selection of parts or regions on an image of a human body. The data becomes viewable and filterable by geographic location, age, sex, or a variety of other data sets collected from the anonymous users. In an example embodiment, Users register and sign in at a web site. A selectable body interface is presented and the user is prompted to select one or more pain locations on the virtual body. The user's selections are recorded in a database. Another page of the application presents a search option that facilitates searching and visualizing the data, filterable by users' registration information.

Abstract: An organization categorization system and method is disclosed. The organization categorization system and method relies on server data to discover which business organizations are consuming the finite resources of the server and in what proportions. Organizations are categorized according to their consumption of resources. The categorization system and method further ascribes a relative business value to each organization to facilitate the allocation of resources among the various organizations in a business. In an example embodiment, users of the server resources use the SAS programming language and the server resources execute SAS applications that support the SAS programming language. The organization categorization system and method connects an executed computer program to a business-defined classification of applicability to purpose.

Abstract: A system and method for automating the dispensation of medication is provided. Electronic medical record data including identifying data and medication data for an individual is received at a server. The medication data is analyzed to identify at least one medication for dispensation. An instruction is initiated to load said identified medication in an automated medication dispenser and the automated medication dispenser is loaded with a dosing tray in the form of a replenishable, standardized cartridge. Status data is received from the automated medication dispenser regarding the dispensation of the identified medication and medication dosages remaining. At least one image of a user interacting with the automated medication dispenser is provided from a monitoring component which is in electronic communication with said automated medication dispenser.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for managing a plurality of messages generated by an organization for delivery to various recipients. Said system and method configured to optimize the messages to reduce duplication and conflicting message content based on the organizations collective messaging activity and the characteristics of the recipient.

Abstract: The present invention is a gap in care alert system for alerting someone associated with a patient (including in one embodiment the patient himself) that a gap in heath care will soon occur or in another embodiment that a gap in care has occurred for the patient based on the occurrence of a triggering event and the absence of a follow-up event occurring. Health insurance claims data may be used in the process to determine gaps in care.

Abstract: An automated method and system for a conveyor holding system for holding vials of a multi-vial order in a holding pattern until all vials of the order have been filled by an automatic pill counter. The system uses RFID information to divert vials off the conveyor into the conveyor holding loop if all vials of the multi-vial order have not been filled. The system is adapted to divert the vials of the multi-vial order out of the holding loop when all vials of the multi-vial order have been filled.

Abstract: An automated method and system for transporting vials from multiple upstream locations to a downstream location and for combining N number of conveyor lanes from N number of upstream location (e.g., capping stations) down to one conveyor lane. The system is adapted to transport vials from a more-distant upstream location faster than vials from a closer upstream location so that they reach the downstream location at approximately the same time. Guide members placed at an angle to the traveling axis of the conveyor lanes divert the vials onto a single conveyor lane for transporting the vials to a downstream location.

Abstract: A computerized system comprising a social robot for interacting with a patient in order to improve the patient's adherence to a health or medical regime. A patient is instructed to perform a health activity (e.g., take medication, step on scale, measure glucose, play a game) at certain intervals in order to reach a specified goal or expected result. The results of the health activity are recorded in a wireless health device and transmitted to a computer. The computer interprets the result of health activity and communicates an action to the robot. If the patient performs the activity within a specified interval and results are consistent with the specified goal or expected result, the robot communicates relief or pleasure. If the patient does not perform the activity within a specified interval, or if the results are not consistent with the specified goal or expected result, the robot communicates anxiety, disappointment or exhibits symptoms of an effect such as hunger or illness.

Abstract: An automated prescription dispensing system and method for facilitating dispensing of medications from an automated prescription dispenser designed for in-home use. The dispenser may connect to a remote patient monitoring center for monitoring of the patient's dispenser use and adherence to a medication regime. The dispenser may further connect to a remote medication operations center for monitoring replenishment of the patient's medications and to a remote medical center for monitoring the patient's reaction to medications and clinical signs. A connection to a data analytics center and analytical engine facilitates communications among and between the users and/or caregivers at the remote centers. The dispenser may be loaded with a standardized cartridge that is replenished according to the patient's needs. The dispenser is further equipped with a camera that allows a caregiver at the remote patient monitoring center to view the patient while the patient uses the dispenser.

Abstract: Interactive communication devices in communication with a central server support ambient communications between two or more remotely located users. Each device has a sensor and a feedback device. The sensors allow the device to sense ‘outgoing’ interaction (e.g., a squeeze or hug), and the feedback devices allow the device to demonstrate ‘incoming’ interactions. A central device is activated when someone interacts with any of the other devices within the network. The other devices in the network—the peripheral devices—are activated both when the interaction originates from the central device as well as from the other peripheral devices. When the server determines that a user has interacted with one of the devices, messages are sent to other devices in the network to reflect the user interaction. The communication devices allow the users in the network to send messages to each other by simply squeezing their respective devices.

Abstract: An automated method and system for distributing prescription vials from upstream locations of a pharmacy to various downstream destinations using a stacked configuration of outbound lanes so that vials will enter the first outbound lane that is not blocked. The distribution table of the present invention has a lower portion having outbound lanes and an upper portion having outbound lanes and where the table is adapted to move vials in a loop pattern around the lower and upper portions.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical order verification system and method for an automated pharmacy system is disclosed. A computerized line control application controls a dispensing line, facilitates automated dispensing of drugs into vials, and collects and records data for dispensed drug as well as each verification step performed by a pharmacist. In an example embodiment, pharmacist verification occurs in connection with replenishing the drugs in automated tablet counters and in connection with verifying a specified percentage of orders for each automated tablet counter. During the replenishment process, the pharmacist verifies that a replenishment canister has been loaded with the correct drug in the appropriate dosage and strength. During the order verification step, a pharmacist verifies the contents of vial matches the prescription order data.

Abstract: An automated method and system for distributing vials to downstream locations in an automated pharmacy. More specifically, the present invention is a conveyor table having two U-shaped configurations for moving vials in a loop until the vials enter an open outbound lane. A barrier portion on the table guides vials from the conveyor table on an outbound lane for transport to a downstream location, such as a packing station. The outbound lane is operationally connected to a lane of stations, and the system is adapted to guide the vials to the first station that is open.

Abstract: An automated method and system for transitioning a bottle from a horizontal belt conveyor to the entrance of an air conveyor, and vice versa, from an air conveyor to a horizontal belt conveyor. An indexer in a circular arrangement moves around 180 degrees clockwise until the bottle drops into the air conveyor (e.g., pneumatic tube). This motion controls the bottle's movement; otherwise, the bottle would free-fall off the conveyor. The indexer rotary device provides control of the vial transition, keeping it vertical so it goes into the tube in a controlled manner.

Abstract: An automated vial feed system for an automated prescription filling system. The system has a plurality of sensors located above a vial distribution table for controlling the pace of vial delivery to the table. The sensors determine the load of vials on the table and a control system uses the information as feedback to the vial delivery system.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical order verification system and method for an automated pharmacy system is disclosed. A computerized line control application controls a dispensing line, facilitates automated dispensing of drugs into vials, and collects and records data for dispensed drug as well as each verification step performed by a pharmacist. In an example embodiment, pharmacist verification occurs in connection with replenishing the drugs in automated tablet counters and in connection with verifying a specified percentage of orders for each automated tablet counter. During the replenishment process, the pharmacist verifies that a replenishment canister has been loaded with the correct drug in the appropriate dosage and strength. During the order verification step, a pharmacist verifies the contents of vial matches the prescription order data.

Abstract: An automated method and system for distributing vials to downstream locations in an automated pharmacy. More specifically, the present invention is a conveyor table having two U-shaped configurations for moving vials in a loop until the vials enter an open outbound lane. A barrier portion on the table guides vials from the conveyor table on an outbound lane for transport to a downstream location, such as a packing station. The outbound lane is operationally connected to a lane of stations, and the system is adapted to guide the vials to the first station that is open.

Abstract: An automated vial feed system for an automated prescription filling system. The system has a plurality of sensors located above a vial distribution table for controlling the pace of vial delivery to the table. The sensors determine the load of vials on the table and a control system uses the information as feedback to the vial delivery system.

Abstract: An automated method and system for a conveyor holding system for holding vials of a multi-vial order in a holding pattern until all vials of the order have been filled by an automatic pill counter. The system uses RFID information to divert vials off the conveyor into the conveyor holding loop if all vials of the multi-vial order have not been filled. The system is adapted to divert the vials of the multi-vial order out of the holding loop when all vials of the multi-vial order have been filled.