Innovative dot codes on press through packages (PTP) for visually impaired patients

Most blind people rely on sound information; however, the provision of this information is not satisfactory. More than 50% of drugs in Japan are distributed in Press through Packages (PTP), and there are currently no regulations for the provision of appropriate information for blind people. Innovative Dot PTP provide visually impaired patients with sound information by touching an infrared ray radiation scanner pen to the PTP. After instructing subjects on the use of Dot PTP, we investigated the usefulness and usability of innovative Dot codes with PTP based on interviews and objective information. The results of interviews and NRS were analyzed. Instructions for the use of Dot PTP were evaluated as understandable by most visually impaired patients. Sound information provided appropriate drug information for blind subjects. Considering the aging society, cost-effective innovations, such as Dot PTP, may contribute to the spread of universal designs in the society.