Final answer:
GPS tracking and In-situ prompting aim to improve medication adherence by providing location-based services and reminders for patients, which is a more practical approach than directly observed therapy (DOT) for ensuring that patients are taking medications as prescribed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The goal of GPS tracking and In-situ prompting was primarily to improve medication adherence. This concept is partly related to solutions like directly observed therapy (DOT), where medications are administered under supervision. While DOT has been shown to be effective in increasing adherence, it may not be practical for all antibiotics due to logistical and economic concerns. The subject under discussion involves understanding strategies that promote health care effectiveness and patient compliance with their treatment regimens. GPS tracking can offer up-to-date information on a patient's location, which can help health-care providers ensure medications are being taken as prescribed without the need for patients to travel, thereby promoting adherence and potentially reducing costs as compared to DOT. This also aligns with broader health questions such as overprescription and responsibilities in the healthcare industry. In-situ prompting, which could be facilitated by mobile technologies like text messaging, could serve as a reminder for patients to take their medications, thereby again improving adherence.