Scanning Prescriptions

Version: 0.1.1 | Last Updated: 2026-01-07

Overview

CareForMeds can automatically read your prescription labels using your phone's camera. This feature extracts medication details directly from the label, saving you time and reducing entry errors.

How It Works

1. Take a photo of your prescription label
2. CareForMeds uses OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to read the text
3. The system automatically extracts:
   • Medication name
   • Strength/dosage
   • Directions (frequency, timing)
   • Prescriber information
   • Pharmacy details
   • Refill information
4. Review and confirm the extracted information
5. Save the medication to your list

Scanning a Prescription Label

From the Dashboard

1. Click Scan Medication or the camera icon
2. Allow camera access when prompted
3. Position the prescription label within the frame
4. Ensure good lighting (avoid shadows and glare)
5. Hold steady and tap Capture
6. Wait for processing (usually 2-5 seconds)
7. Review the extracted information
8. Make any corrections needed
9. Click Save Medication

From Add Medication

1. Go to Medications > Add New
2. Click Scan Label Instead
3. Follow the capture steps above

Tips for Best Results

Lighting

• Use natural daylight when possible
• Avoid harsh shadows across the label
• Don't use flash directly on glossy labels

Positioning

• Fill the frame with the label
• Keep the label flat and unwrinkled
• Ensure all text is visible
• Hold the camera parallel to the label (not at an angle)

Label Condition

• Flatten curled labels
• Clean off any residue or smudges
• If the label is damaged, enter medication manually

What Gets Extracted

Reviewing Extracted Data

Always review the extracted information before saving:

1. Medication Name - Verify spelling matches your bottle
2. Strength - Confirm the numbers and units are correct
3. Directions - Check frequency and timing instructions
4. Schedule - Adjust reminder times to fit your routine

Troubleshooting

"Unable to read label"

• Improve lighting conditions
• Move closer to the label
• Ensure the entire label is in frame
• Try capturing again

Incorrect information extracted

• Edit the fields manually
• Common issues: similar-looking characters (0 vs O, 1 vs l)
• Some abbreviations may not expand correctly

Camera won't activate

• Check browser camera permissions
• Ensure no other app is using the camera
• Try refreshing the page

Video Scanning

For medications with multiple labels or hard-to-capture bottles:

1. Select Video Mode
2. Slowly rotate the bottle in front of the camera
3. The system captures multiple frames
4. Best results are automatically selected

Privacy & Security

• Photos are processed securely and encrypted
• Images are not stored permanently after extraction
• All data is protected under HIPAA guidelines
• Only you and your authorized caregivers can access your medications

See Also

• Adding Medications - Manual entry option
• Logging Doses - Record when you take your medications