Implementation of IoT-Based Technology on Patient Medication Adherence: A Comprehensive Bibliometric and Systematic Review

The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) into various sectors offers promising advancements, especially within healthcare. This transformation in healthcare management aligns with the shift towards more personalised, proactive, and cost-effective treatment methodologies. This review systematically evaluated the existing literature, coupled with a comprehensive bibliometric analysis, to identify potential research avenues and domains for further investigation concerning the IoT's role in patient medication adherence (PMA). A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, employing stringent criteria to select relevant studies. From an initial pool of 314 articles focused on the IoT's integration into pharmaceutical care, 33 were critically analysed for their contributions to the understanding of PMA. The analysis displayed an upward trend in publication volume over recent years. From the 33 shortlisted articles, robust evidence was found of the IoT's efficacy in enhancing PMA, especially among elderly patients with chronic ailments. The findings were predominantly associated with IoT-based systems that allow real-time monitoring, reminders, and personalised feedback. However, each system had its distinct advantages and associated limitations. The results underscore the pivotal role of PMA in healthcare, suggesting that it should be at the forefront of medical discussions. The demonstrable benefits of the IoT in improving PMA indicate its potential as a cornerstone in future healthcare solutions, especially for populations at higher risk of medication non-adherence. However, the highlighted limitations of current IoT systems represent the necessity of ongoing research. This is crucial not only to address these constraints but to validate the long-term viability and effectiveness of IoT applications in ensuring optimal patient outcomes. In conclusion, while the IoT presents a paradigm shift in healthcare, especially concerning PMA, its full potential can only be harnessed through rigorous research and innovation aimed at overcoming its present limitations.