The system uses Internet of Things (IOT) technology, based upon Mendix’s platform, to collect data from 8,000 mobile sensors, which can then be downloaded and stored on cloud-based applications and is then viewable on smartphone applications.
Temperature-controlled delivery is particularly important for biologics, where variations in temperature can render treatments ineffective or harmful.
AntTail’s monitoring is enabled by wireless sensors, which deliver data via Bluetooth to cloud storage software and can then be assessed through smartphone apps. Its offerings do not end at the pharmacist, with additional packaging available to ship medicine to patients – allowing stakeholders to determine whether the treatments are being stored correctly.
The company stated this could lead to financial savings to ensure the precise storage temperature of biologic products, as well as providing patients with medicine that remains effective.
In addition, the sensors are equipped with the ability to take light readings, indicating the possibility of tampering of the packages in its journey through the supply chain. Also, at the patient level, it can be determined when a patient is administering the medication once the package has been opened.
Should there be any activity measured by the sensors that indicates issues during transit, the ‘AntCloud’ is able to send alert messages to stakeholder through the connected phone app. This can also be used to notify patients when it is time to take medication.
Throughout the entire supply chain, the location of shipments is also remotely monitored. CEO of AntTail, Mark Roemers stated that the ‘long’ and ‘fragmented’ nature of the supply chain leads to errors.
Beyond eradicating errors, Roemers also noted that the data from the company’s platform could reduce medical waste.
“With IoT data, you can demonstrate that unused medicine has been stored under the right conditions and, therefore, can be safely used by another patient,” he outlined. Further noting that currently only 3% of medication is returned to the pharmacy.
