For the more than 20 million people living with vision loss, not being able to read drug container labels and package inserts is a scary reality and a significant public health challenge. Some pharmacies provide accessible labels in audible, braille, and large print formats but few get dispensed with these labels, due to lack of awareness among consumers and pharmacies.
During the week of September 9-15, 2017, you are invited to take part in Medication Safety Awareness for the Blind Week, to help raise awareness among pharmacies and consumers about accessible prescription labels and how they help the blind and low vision safely and independently manage their medications. Click title to read more.
Find a pharmacy in your zip code that offers accessible prescription labels.
A number of organizations are working to make medication accessibility easier and safer for people with vision loss, and there are a variety of products available in various regions. Below are links to additional information you can look into to find what's best for you.
En-Vision America, Inc., located in Palmetto, Florida, is a company providing high-tech products aimed at solving problems for those with visual impairments. En-Vision America partners with pharmacies and other organizations to absorb costs so that accessible labels are free for those who need it. Labels are provided by pharmacies and label readers are loaned out by En-Vision America at no cost to the end user. Call 1-800-890-1180 for more information.
AccessaMed, Inc.™ is an assistive technology company who created the Digital Audio Label, the new generation in accessible prescription drug labeling. The founders of AccessaMed™ identified the need for a safer and more independent way to take medication first hand. As a team with a visually impaired founder, AccessaMed™ prides itself on creating technology by the blind, for the blind. The Digital Audio Label is the new generation in accessible prescription drug labeling. Press its button and hear a verbal description of the prescription details as prepared by the pharmacist.
The American Foundation for the Blind has an extensive listing of products and devices to help you identify your medications. Find the list, complete with audio descriptions of each of the products and more information here.
AccessaMed
Digit-Eyes
i.d. mate Quest
ScripTalk
Take-n-Slide
Talking RX Personal Talking Prescription Device
Walgreens Talking Pill Reminder
Target Prescription Bottle
Tel-Rx
Timex 2
Using a high-contrast tray