What could be handier? A new machine will dispense prepackaged prescription meds at home, while at the same time allowing the elderly patient to video chat with family and medical staff.

A Burnsville company is partnering with Ecumen and Thrifty White Drug on a pilot project to do just that. Ōmcare has designed its Telemed System to help make sure older adults are taking their medications as prescribed — at the right time, in the right way.

The Telemed device can hold 15 to 30 days worth of medication, which for the pilot project will be provided by Thrifty White Drug — individually packaged and pre-slit for easy opening.

The three-way video system allows family or medical staff to call when it’s medication time, and to check in, chat a bit, and make sure the patient is taking the medicine as prescribed.

“It’s the first of its kind, it’s really innovative,” said Brett Anderson, Ecumen vice president of health and clinical services.

Read the full article from the Detroit Lakes Tribune here.