As part of our ongoing mission to foster innovation within the Welsh health and social care system, these projects show how advanced solutions, and cutting-edge technology can have on addressing some of the most pressing challenges in care provision today, with the potential to benefit thousands of individuals across Wales.
YourMeds: Empowering medication management
Managing medication is an increasing challenge, particularly as more individuals seek to maintain independence while living in their own homes. With nearly two million people aged over 65 in the UK taking seven or more medications weekly, ensuring adherence is crucial. However, up to 50% of prescribed medicines are not taken as intended, leading to health complications and additional strain on health and social care resources.
The YourMeds project is being evaluated in Bridgend with support from Life Sciences Hub Wales (Project Lead, Louise Baker), introducing an innovative digital device that reminds users when to take their medication. This device not only supports individuals in adhering their medicines correctly but can also be linked to a Telecare Alarm Receiving Centre or family circle of care, providing proactive and preventative support, reducing the risk of emergencies, and improving overall wellbeing.
The outcomes of this project will inform its potential for broader implementation across Wales.
PainChek: Advancing pain management
For many residents in care homes, particularly those with dementia or learning disabilities, communicating pain is a challenge. PainChek, an AI-powered pain assessment tool enhances the ability of caregivers to accurately access and manage pain in residents who can’t verbalise their discomfort.
The tool’s introduction has led to more frequent and precise pain assessments, improved use of pain relief, and reduced behavioural issues linked to unmanaged pain.
Project managed by our Project Lead Chris Rolls, the evaluation of PainChek has revealed significant benefits for both residents and care providers. For instance, helping care givers make more informed decision about pain relief, leading to fewer necessary medications, and a better overall experience for residents.
These case study spotlight videos not only show the remarkable work being done by YourMeds and PainChek, but also shows the pivotal role we’re playing in supporting innovation within social care. By identifying critical needs and connecting care providers with the right technological solutions, we’re helping to improve lives, ease burdens on caregivers, and deliver vital services more effectively.
“We’re committed to driving innovation that accelerates the delivery of social care across Wales. The YourMeds and PainChek projects are prime examples of how technology can be used to meet the evolving needs of our population, enabling people to live healthier, more independent lives.” Cari-Anne Quinn, CEO, Life Sciences Hub Wales
For more information on these projects, find out more here, or to learn how we can support you and your innovations, submit an enquiry here.
A special thank you to all stakeholders involved in both projects.
YourMeds: Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Value Based Health Care, YourMeds.
PainChek: Local authority and privately owned care homes across Gwent, Gwent Regional Partnership Board via the Technology Enabled Care Programme, PainChek.
