Abstract: A method for compressing and subsequently decompressing digital data communicated in an interactive computer network, the network designed to provide informational and transactional services to a very large population of users. The method features steps for compressing bytes of network data before transmission by substituting variable-length code words obtained from a fixed, look-up table, and, reconstituting the bytes using a fixed, decompression look-up table when the code words are received at the data reception site.

Abstract: A medication-dispensing system includes a prescribing data entry station for use by a physician to store prescription information in a portable prescribing module, a dispensing data entry station for use by a pharmacist to store dispensing information in a portable dispensing data storage unit, and a medication dispenser responsive to information stored in the portable prescribing module to describe use of medication in the dispenser in accordance with a regimen prescribed by the physician and to the dispensing data storage unit to control dispensing of the medication. One embodiment has two medication drawers, each having a plurality of compartments with indicating lights selectively indicating the compartment from which medication is to be taken, a screen for displaying instructions regarding loading of the medication compartments and taking of the medication, and a keyboard including a confirming entry key for actuation by the user to confirm compliance with the instructions.