Automated medication dispensing devices, kits, systems, methods, and related applications thereof, such as using computer readable (e.g., NFC [near field communication], or QR) standards for monitoring and verifying patient and caregiver activities and health related data-information. The medication dispensing device includes: a housing having a sliding mechanism configured to receive, hold, and release a removably slidable medication holder containing a plurality of individual medication holding compartments. The medication holder for dispensing medication includes: a receptacle (as either a disposable blister pack, or a reusable medication tray) containing a plurality of individual medication holding compartments, and having one side configured with one or more outward facing holes or an outward facing external handle to facilitate removably sliding the medication holder into and out of a medication dispensing device.