Digital Health
Teesside University’s National Horizons Centre collaborated with Darlington Memorial Hospital and Health Beacon to evaluate the effectiveness of a digital technology system for monitoring adherence to subcutaneous biologic treatments in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The proof-of-concept study, funded by NHS X, aimed to address challenges in tracking medication adherence for self-administered treatments introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The shift to self-administered subcutaneous biologics for managing IBD during and after the pandemic reduced patient visits to biologics infusion units, leaving healthcare teams without an audit trail to confirm drug administration. Monitoring adherence became critical to ensuring the efficacy of treatments like infliximab, adalimumab, and vedolizumab, which require strict dosing schedules for optimal outcomes.
The pilot study used the Health Beacon Digital Sharps Box®—a smart device pre-programmed with individual treatment schedules. The system electronically recorded when patients disposed of their used injection pens, providing a time-stamped record as a proxy for adherence. Complemented by a companion app and care team support, the system also sent reminders to patients who missed scheduled doses. Fifty IBD patients participated in the six-month trial, with adherence data, patient satisfaction, and technical performance monitored throughout.
The study demonstrated that digital monitoring significantly improved adherence to subcutaneous biologics, with an overall adherence rate of 86% and 76% on-time adherence. Patient satisfaction was high, with reasons for delayed doses including forgetfulness, travel, and busy schedules. The findings highlight the value of digital technologies in tracking and supporting medication adherence for self-administered treatments, providing critical insights for healthcare teams managing IBD. Although further research is needed to explore patient behaviour and its impact on disease outcomes, this study establishes a foundation for innovative approaches in chronic disease management.
