Health & Wellness

Tops Markets LLC has introduced at all of its pharmacies the Rx Timer Cap, a patented device with a built-in LCD timer that fits the same standard vials that patients’ medications already come in. Williamsville, N.Y.-based Tops will give away a free Rx Timer Cap with any prescription purchase as part of its wellness program, which urges customers to “Shop for Better Health.” Additional Rx Timer Caps are on sale at any of the chain’s pharmacies.

Tops is the first retail pharmacy in New York state to offer the Rx Timer Cap to customers.

“We’re always looking for ways to provide more convenience to our customers, especially when it comes to helping them make better decisions about their health,” noted Heidi Polek, Tops’ manager of pharmacy operations. “Introducing this new product in our pharmacies will undoubtedly help reduce medication errors and provide peace of mind for caregivers and patients.”

The Rx Timer Cap’s display works like a stopwatch, counting up the hours and minutes since the container was last opened to tell patients exactly how long it’s been since their last dose. Activation is automatic and foolproof, as there are no alarms to program, no buttons to press and no instructions to read. Just opening and closing the container resets the timer. The device is provided by Thousand Oaks, Calif.-based Rx Timer Cap LLC.

Studies show that currently, less than half of all Americans take their medications as prescribed by their physicians. In addition, almost 25 percent of caregivers report problems with medication management. By automatically keeping track of the interval between doses, the Rx Timer Cap encourages adherence to medication regimens.

Tops operates 133 full-service supermarkets -- 127 company-owned and six franchise locations -- in upstate New York and northern Pennsylvania, employing more than 14,000 associates.