Berg Insight has found in its latest research that around 9.0 million people in Europe and 5.2 million people in North America were using telecare or medical alert solutions at the end of 2023.

The figures include users of both in-home and mobile systems. Until 2028, Berg Insight forecasts that the number of telecare users will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8 percent to reach 20.6 million in the two regions.

The market value of telecare solutions in Europe reached at the same time € 3.5 billion in 2023. The market value is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4 percent in the next five years to reach € 5.2 billion at the end of the forecast period. The market value for medical alert solutions in North America is expected to grow from € 2.7 billion (US$ 2.9 billion) in 2023 to € 4.1 million (US$ 4.5 billion) in 2028.

Berg Insight’s definition of telecare solutions, also known as medical alert systems or PERS (personal emergency response systems), is a service aimed for elderly, disabled and vulnerable people to seek help from home in case of an emergency. These solutions can trigger an alarm when the user presses a button or when a passive sensor detects an event out of the ordinary. These systems provide continuous in-home or completely mobile monitoring services and can consist of a range of electronic devices such as personal alarm buttons, motion detection sensors, GPS monitors or fitness devices. The market evolves to include AI solutions that automatically trigger an alarm for instance when a user leaves home at an unexpected time or forgets to take his or her medicine.

The telecare market in Europe and North America is served by range of companies providing hardware devices, software platforms and monitoring services. In the European market, Tunstall, Legrand, TeleAlarm, Careium, Chiptech and Chubb are among the leading end-to-end solution providers. Tunstall, Legrand and TeleAlarm have strong presence across the European region. Chiptech has its operations in the UK market, meanwhile Careium is a leading market player in the Nordic region and has also presence in the UK. Companies such as Telecom Design, Essence Group, 9Solutions, Oysta Technology (Access Group), Everon and Ascom are key telecare equipment vendors in Europe. Essence SmartCare is well-established in both Europe and North America. Enovation, Skyresponse and Azur Soft are the leading providers of telecare monitoring software solutions. Additional significant vendors active in Europe are Tellu, Yorbl, Urmet, Navigil, SmartLife Care, Libify, SmartWatcher, Just Checking and Vivago. In North America, end-to-end telecare solutions are provided by Freeus (Becklar Group), Connect America, Mytrex, Numera (Nice North America), MobileHelp and Lively. Another group of companies offering monitoring services and reselling medical alert equipment are Medical Guardian, Life Alert Emergency Response, ADT, Bay Alarm Medical, Aloe Care and ModivCare. Major telecare equipment vendors are Essence Group, Climax Technology, LogicMark and Anelto.

“The market for personal emergency response systems for the elderly and the vulnerable population will continue to grow as the demand for digital care solutions has increased over the last couple of years”, says Vatsala Raina, IoT analyst at Berg Insight.

The European and North American market for personal emergency response systems is supported by several trends and developments that will have an impact on the competitive landscape during the forecast years. The silver generation is quickly becoming technologically savvy and open to adopt technology to help in everyday living needs. AI has an increasing role in the development of preventive and predictive care models. Solution providers have integrated AI and ML algorithms to analyse the monitoring data to learn about the patients’ daily routines, identify irregularities and expedite the needed assistance. Predictive analytics models assess the users’ risk of falling based on their historical data and health conditions.

Mrs. Raina concluded:

“The industry is moving towards incorporating new care models and technologies such as sensor-based systems, smart lamps to detect fall detection, and consumer-oriented technology companies incorporating PERS features in wearables, smart speakers and smartphones.”

The industry is becoming more patient-centric which calls for integrated systems and improved interoperability of connected care solutions.

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The healthcare industry is undergoing a profound transformation, thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT). The integration of IoT technology into healthcare systems is revolutionizing patient care, treatment processes, and medical research. In this article, we’ll explore how IoT is making its mark on the healthcare sector, its key applications, benefits, and the implications for the future of healthcare.

IoT in Healthcare: A Game Changer

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of interconnected physical devices, vehicles, buildings, and other objects embedded with sensors, software, and network connectivity that allows them to collect and exchange data. In healthcare, IoT is enabling the collection and analysis of vast amounts of patient data, promoting remote monitoring, and enhancing the efficiency of medical facilities.

Key Applications of IoT in Healthcare

1. Remote Patient Monitoring

IoT has enabled healthcare providers to remotely monitor patients with chronic conditions. Wearable devices, such as smartwatches and sensors, collect real-time data on vital signs, activity levels, and other health parameters. This data is transmitted to healthcare providers who can intervene when necessary, offering timely care and preventing hospital readmissions.

2. Smart Medical Devices

IoT is giving rise to a new generation of smart medical devices. From connected inhalers that monitor medication usage to intelligent pill dispensers that send medication adherence reminders, these devices help patients manage their health more effectively and enable healthcare providers to track patient compliance.

3. Telemedicine

Telemedicine, or remote medical consultations, has seen tremendous growth with the help of IoT. Video conferencing and remote monitoring tools allow patients to consult with healthcare professionals from the comfort of their homes. This approach not only increases access to care but also reduces the burden on healthcare facilities.

4. Asset and Inventory Management

IoT is improving the management of medical equipment and supplies. Sensors can track the location and status of medical devices, ensuring their availability when needed. This results in cost savings and reduces the risk of delays in patient care.

5. Clinical Workflow Optimization

IoT can optimize clinical workflows by connecting various systems and devices. For example, electronic health records (EHRs) can be seamlessly integrated with diagnostic equipment, automating data transfer and reducing the risk of errors.

6. Hospital and Home Automation

IoT extends to the management of hospital infrastructure and home care. Smart building systems can control lighting, heating, and cooling, ensuring a comfortable environment for patients. Similarly, home automation systems can be integrated with healthcare devices to support independent living for elderly or disabled individuals.

7. Drug Management and Compliance

IoT is used to monitor drug storage conditions, ensuring that medications remain effective and safe. It can also help patients adhere to their medication regimens by sending reminders and tracking consumption.

Benefits of IoT in Healthcare

The integration of IoT in healthcare offers numerous advantages:

1. Improved Patient Outcomes

Remote monitoring and real-time data analysis enable healthcare providers to intervene promptly when health parameters deviate from normal ranges. This leads to improved patient outcomes, reduced hospital readmissions, and better management of chronic conditions.

2. Enhanced Efficiency

IoT streamlines healthcare workflows by automating various processes, such as patient data entry and medical equipment tracking. This reduces administrative burden, frees up staff time, and reduces errors.

3. Cost Savings

Efficiency gains and improved patient outcomes often translate into cost savings for healthcare facilities and patients. Preventing hospital readmissions and complications reduces the overall cost of care.

4. Increased Accessibility

Telemedicine and remote monitoring extend healthcare access to underserved or remote areas. Patients can consult with specialists without the need for long-distance travel, making healthcare more accessible. You can also search for telemedicine jobs to explore opportunities in this rapidly growing field. The demand for skilled professionals in telehealth is on the rise, reflecting the increasing reliance on technology to bridge gaps in healthcare services.

5. Personalized Treatment

IoT allows for personalized treatment plans by continuously monitoring a patient’s condition and adjusting treatment regimens accordingly. This personalized approach often leads to more effective treatment and improved patient satisfaction.

Challenges and Considerations

While IoT in healthcare offers significant benefits, it also poses challenges and considerations:

1. Data Security and Privacy

Healthcare data is sensitive and subject to strict privacy regulations. The secure storage and transmission of patient data is of utmost importance to maintain patient trust and regulatory compliance.

2. Interoperability

IoT devices and systems must be compatible and interoperable to ensure seamless data exchange and integration. This requires the development and adoption of common standards.

3. Regulatory Compliance

The healthcare industry is heavily regulated, and IoT solutions must adhere to these regulations. Compliance with standards such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is crucial.

4. Data Overload

The continuous collection of patient data can result in information overload. Healthcare providers need effective tools for data management and interpretation to extract valuable insights.

5. Resistance to Change

The adoption of IoT in healthcare requires a cultural shift and staff training. Resistance to change can be a barrier to successful implementation.

The Future of IoT in Healthcare

As technology continues to advance, the future of IoT in healthcare looks promising. Here are some trends and developments to watch for:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration

IoT and AI will work hand in hand to analyze vast amounts of patient data and offer insights for diagnosis, treatment, and predictive healthcare.

2. Wearable Health Tech

Wearable devices will continue to evolve, becoming more sophisticated and integrated into daily life. They will offer not only health monitoring but also wellness and lifestyle recommendations.

3. 5G Connectivity

The rollout of 5G networks will provide faster and more reliable connectivity for IoT devices, enabling real-time data transmission and analysis.

4. Blockchain Technology

Blockchain can be used to enhance the security and integrity of healthcare data, ensuring that patient records remain accurate and private.

5. Telehealth Expansion

The growth of telehealth and remote monitoring will continue, extending healthcare access and reducing the need for in-person visits.

Conclusion

IoT is reshaping the healthcare industry, making it more patient-centric, efficient, and accessible. The integration of IoT devices and systems allows for real-time patient monitoring, personalized treatment plans, and enhanced efficiency in healthcare facilities.

Challenges related to data security, interoperability, and regulatory compliance must be addressed to ensure the benefits of IoT in healthcare are fully realized. As IoT technology continues to advance, it will remain a driving force in transforming healthcare, offering a glimpse into a future where healthcare is not just about treating illness but also about preventing it and promoting overall well-being.

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Smart Meter, the No. 1 supplier of devices and data to the remote patient monitoring (RPM) market, will introduce a new cellular-enabled glucometer at the HLTH Conference in Las Vegas starting October 8th.

The iGlucose® Essential builds on the company’s reputation for supplying secure, cellular-enabled RPMTM, vital sign monitors. The new iGlucose® Essential delivers an FDA-cleared, reliable blood glucose monitor packed with features that make it easy for users to manage their diabetes better.

The iGlucose® Essential is ergonomically designed for patient comfort, is lightweight, and simple to use, all leading to more frequent and regular testing. In addition, it has a large, easy-to-read display screen combined with one-button operation and automatic shutoff that make this monitor incredibly patient-friendly. There is no need to log testing results in a separate journal since the iGlucose® Essential is cellular-enabled, so test results are automatically sent to the user’s care team. The new glucose meter also includes onscreen alerts for Ketone and Hypo conditions, giving users more control in managing their condition.

“When developing the feature criteria for the new iGlucose® Essential, we put the patient’s needs first,” said Casey Pittock, Smart Meter’s CEO.

“We know the key to controlling diabetes is for patients to test regularly so both patient and provider understand blood glucose levels. With these many patient-centric features, we feel testing has never been easier.”

Healthcare continues to be a priority target for cyber hackers, costing organizations more than $10 million a year¹. One of the main reasons is that healthcare data is considered to be 50 times more valuable² than financial data alone.

As with all of Smart Meter’s cellular-enabled RPM devices, the iGlucose® Essential utilizes proprietary cellular technology to transmit the reading instantly through our Private Data Network, the only one in the United States specifically created for RPM, developed in collaboration with AT&T. This ensures a reliable and secure transmission every time. And unlike unsecured Bluetooth® devices, our solutions will only connect and transmit patient data through our network.

“While some healthcare data organizations struggle to always have secure transmissions, Smart Meter made it a priority several years ago,” said Smart Meter’s Chief Marketing Officer Bill Bassett. “In fact, we were recently recognized with a Systems and Organizations Control (SOC) certification after an independent audit by a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) verified our multiple layers of robust security.”

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The Healthcare domain has witnessed significant advancements through the Internet of Things (IoT) and its more specialized offshoot, the (IoMT). To integrate devices seamlessly into a unified IoT system, firmware development and embedded solutions for IoT play a vital role.

This article will explore the impact of embedded solutions and good firmware development on the performance of IoT devices in the Healthcare industry.

Although we won’t even scratch the surface of most technical aspects of firmware development here, we must emphasize the importance of firmware development expertise for ensuring optimal device performance.

IoT in Healthcare Market Review and Forecast

According to Market Research Future, the global Internet of Medical Things market was $48.7 billion in 2022. Other forecasts project that it could reach as much as $516 billion by or before 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.15%. North America leads the market, accounting for nearly 36% of the global share. This growth will most likely be driven by advanced healthcare technologies, remote patient monitoring demand, and the arrival of major market players from other segments.

The Rise of IoT in Healthcare

The increasing prominence of IoT in healthcare is revolutionizing the industry. The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) spans networks and integrations bridging equipment, software applications, and health systems to facilitate the exchange of vital health data. This network interconnects a wide range of devices, including wearables, remote monitoring systems, implanted devices, and other smart healthcare devices. These interconnected devices facilitate seamless interactions between healthcare providers and patients, enhancing communication and improving the healthcare experience. By leveraging IoMT, healthcare organizations aim to enhance patient outcomes, reduce healthcare expenses, and elevate the quality of care. The most vital aspect of developing within this space is firmware/embedded solutions because of the impacts and attributes we explore below.

The Impact of Embedded Solutions on IoT Device Performance

Embedded solutions are essential components that enable seamless connectivity and integration of devices within the IoT ecosystem. While numerous other technical factors must converge for successful IoT development, it is crucial to highlight how embedded solutions and firmware development contribute to the optimal performance of IoT devices in healthcare.

Device Integration

Embedded solutions facilitate the smooth integration of various medical devices, sensors, and wearables, enabling them to work cohesively within the IoT network. This integration streamlines data collection, analysis, and exchange, facilitating significant improvements in diagnosis and treatment because of the increased accessibility of high-quality remote patient monitoring.

Reliable Data Transmission

Firmware ensures secure and efficient data transmission between IoT devices and healthcare systems. By implementing robust communication protocols and encryption mechanisms, firmware solutions enhance data privacy and integrity, which helps to reduce the likelihood and severity of cyber incidents, data breaches, or any unauthorized access.

Over-the-Air Updates

Embedded solutions and high-quality firmware enable seamless over-the-air (OTA) updates, allowing healthcare organizations to remotely update and upgrade device functionalities, security features, and performance improvements. This ease of access eliminates manual intervention and minimizes disruptions in healthcare operations.

Device Optimization

Firmware plays a crucial role in optimizing the performance of IoT devices. By fine-tuning device parameters, managing power consumption, and implementing efficient algorithms, firmware solutions ensure that IoT devices operate at their peak performance levels. This optimization directly impacts healthcare IoT devices’ reliability, responsiveness, and overall functionality.

Fine-tuning Device Parameters

Firmware enables the customization of device parameters to meet the specific requirements of the healthcare domain. By adjusting settings such as data sampling rates, measurement accuracy, and device sensitivity, firmware solutions can optimize the device’s performance for different healthcare applications. For example, in wearable devices, firmware can be tailored to capture vital signs accurately while minimizing false alarms or unnecessary data transmissions.

Power Consumption Management

Efficient power management is critical in healthcare IoT devices, as they often operate on limited battery life or rely on energy harvesting techniques. firmware solutions implement power-saving mechanisms such as intelligent sleep modes, optimized data transmission protocols, and adaptive power allocation strategies to prolong the device’s battery life. Such increased efficiency ensures continuous operation without frequent battery replacements or recharging, enhancing user convenience and reducing maintenance costs.

Efficient Algorithms

Firmware plays a vital role in implementing efficient algorithms that process and analyze the data collected by IoT devices. By leveraging advanced signal processing techniques, machine learning algorithms, and data compression methods, firmware optimizes the utilization of computational resources within the device. This decreased data size and increased computing efficiency leads to more accurate data analysis in less time. These enhancements can directly lead to better patient outcomes through predictive analytics, earlier detection of any anomalies, and accurate, personalized healthcare insights.

Device Security and Safety

High-quality firmware development can also ensure the security and safety of healthcare IoT devices. For example, firmware can implement robust authentication mechanisms, encryption protocols, and secure boot processes to safeguard sensitive patient data and prevent tampering or unauthorized access. Additionally, firmware can incorporate fail-safe mechanisms and error detection algorithms to prevent system failures or malfunctions that could compromise patient safety.

Softeq – Experts in IoT Firmware and Embedded Development

Softeq is a leading provider of embedded and IoT development services with extensive expertise in developing for the healthcare domain. As a Microsoft Azure partner, an AWS Certified Partner, and an ISO 13485:2016 certified business, Softeq has demonstrated expertise in IoT firmware and embedded development for the healthcare sector. Our team of experienced engineers understands the unique challenges and requirements of the IoT ecosystem in healthcare, and we leverage cutting-edge technologies to deliver robust and high-performing embedded solutions like the following Case Study.

Case Study: Skin Cancer Detection Firmware

Softeq collaborated with Veriskin, a medical device company, to develop a handheld gadget for . Softeq’s firmware and embedded software expertise were instrumental in creating a complex Wi-Fi-enabled system. The solution featured an FPGA-powered handheld device based on the Qualcomm Snapdragon SD410 processor, incorporating LEDs, an audio speaker, an accelerometer, and a display. The firmware enabled real-time capture of LED light signal variations, translating them into a visual diagram. With algorithmic data analysis and a user-friendly interface, the device monitored vascular refilling rates. It provided a low-cost, prompt method for diagnosing malignant skin growth without biopsies or extensive examinations. The in-house firmware expertise at Softeq has played a crucial role in delivering a reliable IoMT solution for skin cancer screening.

Conclusion

Embedded solutions and effective firmware development play a crucial role in optimizing the performance of IoT devices in the Healthcare domain. By facilitating device integration, ensuring reliable data transmission, enabling OTA updates, and implementing device optimization techniques, firmware solutions contribute to enhanced patient monitoring, improved diagnosis and treatment, and streamlined healthcare operations. As the healthcare industry expands and accelerates its embrace of IoT’s potential, expert providers like Softeq stand ready to provide expertise and continue delivering innovative embedded solutions driving healthcare transformation through IoT technology.

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Lithuanian high-tech company group Teltonika has launched the production of TeltoHeart, a multifunctional smart medical wristband designed to help people with heart rhythm problems.

According to the creators of the innovative device, it is a unique gadget globally in terms of its technical capabilities.

The idea to produce such a device came to Arvydas Paukštys, the founder of IoT company Teltonika, about three years ago when he read an article in the media about the fact that Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) scientists, together with representatives of Vilnius University, had developed a highly accurate algorithm for detecting atrial fibrillation. Teltonika agreed with KTU and VU to license this unique and patented technology, but this was just the beginning of a long road.

The project was undertaken by a team of more than 15 people from Teltonika Telemedic, founded at the height of the pandemic. To create a working product, the first step was to implement the algorithm, set up the software, create the design of the wristband and certificate the product. After many days spent perfecting the functions of TeltoHeart, Teltonika launched the mass production of this medical wristband in Lithuania. The first products will go to foreign markets such as India, Cyprus, Spain and Peru, and some of them will stay in Lithuania, where several private medical institutions have already expressed their interest in testing these medical wristbands.

“Around 1 billion people globally suffer from various heart rhythm disorders. Such ailments can be treated most effectively if diagnosed in time, and smart devices are already helping. We have developed a medical-grade smart wristband that can automatically detect atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias, such as when the pulse suddenly drops or rises more than normal. If the wristband detects an arrhythmia, or if the person feels unwell, or if the pulse slows down or rises more than normal, they are advised to record a six-derivative electrocardiogram, which allows the doctor to make a diagnosis and prescribe the necessary treatment. Considering the technical capabilities of this wristband, we believe that it is a medical device that is unique and exceptional in the world,” says Martynas Osauskas, CEO of Teltonika Telemedic.

Teltonika Telemedic offers a complete telemedicine ecosystem called MyHealth, which consists of the TeltoHeart wristband, a data-collecting app for mobile devices and the TeltoCare platform for doctors to monitor patients’ data, for more efficient work in medical institutions.

“Heart rate monitoring needs to be carried out over a long period, but until now, the devices offered for this purpose have been either very inconvenient or expensive. The smart medical wristband developed by Teltonika is efficient, functional and comfortable to wear for long-term heart rate monitoring. In addition, the ecosystem of telemedicine devices that will be developed in the future will help to address more persistent problems in the healthcare system. For example, doctors will be able to serve more patients with the ability to analyse data remotely. And by diagnosing diseases at an early stage, treatment costs and hospital workload can be reduced,” M. Osauskas predicts.

It is planned that the TeltoHeart smart medical wristband will also be available for personal use from sales partners or medical institutions.

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According to Future Market Insights, the worldwide IoT in Healthcare market is expected to reach US$ 181.4 Billion in 2022, growing at an 18.0% CAGR to US$ 952.3 Billion by 2032 over the forecast period.

Furthermore, a dollar opportunity worth US$ 770.9 Billion is anticipated for the market in the forthcoming decade.

By enabling real-time patient data access and remote patient monitoring, the Internet of Things (IoT) has the potential to disrupt traditional paper-based healthcare therapy. With the emergence of this digital healthcare technology, the impending need for enhanced diagnostics and targeted therapeutic options was met.

Furthermore, it not only enables physicians to remotely monitor patients, but it also functions as a fitness and wellness tracker for athletes and a dose reminder for patients. The successful implementation of IoT in remote monitoring of diabetic and asthma patients, along with the growing usage of fitness and wellness devices, has resulted in a considerable demand for the IoT healthcare business.

Key Takeaways from the Market Study

• IoT in healthcare experienced a growth rate worth 18.8% between 2015 and 2021
• Portable diagnostic devices in the IoT in Healthcare segment to expand at a CAGR of 10.1% during the forecast period
• In the U.S., the market is predicted to reach US$ 208.1 Billion while growing at a CAGR of 18.9% during the forecast period
• China’s market is expected to reach a market value of US$ 92.8 Billion with a CAGR of 19.5% during the forecast period

“Big data analytics is an area of IoT that is quickly expanding. The most recent breakthroughs in machine learning, logical procedures, computational intelligence, and data mining are required for big data analytics”, says an FMI analyst.

Competitive Landscape

Key players that have been profiled in the report are Apple Inc., Cisco Systems Inc., GE Healthcare Ltd., Google (Alphabet), International Business Machines Corporation, Medtronic PLC, Microsoft Corporation, Proteus Digital Health, Koninklijke Philips N.V., QUALCOMM Incorporated, and Abbot Laboratories are among companies that offer products and technologies that will allow customers to take advantage of new technologies.

• In April 2019, Royal Philips and Spencer Health Solutions expanded their relationship to provide chronically sick patients in selected European Union (EU) nations with in-home medication adherence and the Philips telehealth platform.
• Medtronic worked with IBM Watson in January 2019 to provide IQcast, a new feature of its current product Sugar.IQ, for iOS mobile devices in the United States. The software would provide patients with a hypoglycemic episode to monitor their low glucose level by anticipating the occurrence 1 to 4 hours in advance.

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A Comprehensive Smartwatch Health Solution for the Chronically Ill and Elderly.

OneLife Technologies Corp., a mobile medical software/data collection company, offers the first AT&T LTE-M certified medical wearable.

The OnePulse smartwatch goes beyond tracking steps. It provides activity trackers, reminders, and alert technologies. Powered by AT&T wireless connectivity, the advanced wearable securely and independently transmits certain critical medical and health data to the cloud. This allows clinicians, patients and their caregivers to monitor user status and well-being.

The AT&T LTE-M connection allows clinicians near real-time access to patient data in a highly secure environment – providing caregivers the ability to intervene when necessary. The LTE-M Low-Power Wide-Area network is designed for IoT devices that are compact. This makes possible OnePulse’ five-day battery life, always on feature and light weight design.

Robert Wagner, CEO of OneLife Technologies, Corp. stated:

“Enabling AT&T connectivity for our devices is a major step in launching our ‘Hub-of-Care’ concept in becoming a leading Population Health Platform with our innovative wearable having the ability to connect patients to their caregivers, virtually in near real-time, almost anywhere in North America.”

“We all want the best healthcare possible – in an emergency, as we age, for our loved ones, or to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Now, that level of service is available with the AT&T-connected OnePulse medical and health smartwatch.”

The OnePulse technology provides data for heart rate, location, movement and sleep at the wrist. OneLife’s proprietary Bluetooth protocol provides the ability to easily connect to other health and medical devices. For example, blood pressure cuff, glucometer, SPo2 monitor, weight scale, etc. can connect for collection and transmission of additional health data tracking. This provides the clinician and patient a wide-ranging view of overall health.

“Connected smartwatches developed with healthcare in mind are a step forward into the future of patient care,” said Joe Mosele, vice president, Internet of Things, AT&T.
“The ability to connect caregivers and patients is just one example of how connectivity is transforming healthcare and creating new care models. Our network will help medical providers and caregivers monitor patients from a distance and receive alerts if something goes wrong.”

The OnePulse smartwatch is a valuable tool for the medical provider to monitor chronically ill and elderly patients who plan to “age in place”. It offers benefits for the user, clinician and caregiver:

• 24/7 monitoring with near real-time alerts for family and/or doctor
• Medication reminders and auto prescription refills
• Fall detection
• A customizable suite of services, for specialty conditions
• Fully encrypted medical records that can be accessed via a cloud-based dashboard.
• Artificial Intelligence analytics and predictive analysis
• Open API allows connection to any system including Electronic Health/Medical Record platforms

The OnePulse LTE-M medical and health smartwatch is a complete solution for practical, affordable telehealth and remote patient monitoring. It is expected to be available for purchase by healthcare providers in March of this year.

With its highly secure network, AT&T is enabling the digital transformation in healthcare. From the waiting room to the living room and virtually anywhere in between, AT&T is helping providers improve patient outcomes.

The OnePulse will be on display and demonstrated next week at Mobile World Congress Barcelona in the AT&T booth #4D40; Hall 4.

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PodM2M (a division of Pod Group), a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) specializing in global data connectivity solutions for the M2M/IoT market, has today announced an agreement with ForaCare Inc. a company dedicated to developing products for chronic disease management by combining innovative technologies and clinical applications.

PodM2M will provide a highly resilient connectivity solution for ForaCare´s Telehealth platform and range of connected healthcare monitoring devices designed for both the patient and the practitioner. These devices include the Test’N Go Glucose Monitoring Meter, allowing patients to see trends in their blood glucose levels and plan their treatment and the VSM100 Vital Signs Monitor, which remotely monitors key patient indicators such as blood pressure, temperature and oxygen levels and reports back to the physician. Devices are connected via the Fora 24/7 HealthView Platform, a secure, web-access management system giving physicians real-time access to patient data.

The need to quickly and securely share data between patients, physicians and hospitals means a highly resilient and secure network connection is required between the devices and the platform. ForaCare also requires a fully scalable solution to enable the company to expand into new growth markets. PodM2M´s resilient network connectivity with intelligent switching, combined with access to over 600 networks worldwide made it an obvious choice to provide the connectivity of the solution.

Adrian Alexander, Sales Account Manager at ForaCare commented:
“Pod offered a cost-effective solution and always gave us a quick response to our questions. We also like the fact that Pod can operate globally as we’re in the process of expanding into other markets outside the US. Thanks to our confidence in the service that Pod provides we will continue to plan our growth and recommend the service.”

PodM2M´s specialist focus on remote and mission critical applications is based on its “No Single Point of Failure” network topology, whereby multiple core networks (IMSIs) are included on the same SIM card and can be automatically switched to provide back-up networks using Pod´s Multi-IMSI app on the SIM. Pod´s extensive experience in this area has led it to develop a special “Pod Profile” which can be used as a bootstrap IMSI on eUICC SIM cards, providing an extra layer of resilience.

Sam Colley, CEO of Pod Group USA commented:
“Our expertise in providing connectivity for mission critical applications makes our solution a perfect fit for healthcare IoT applications such as ForaCare´s TeleHealth System. We are constantly researching new and innovative ways to increase the resilience and security of IoT connectivity which is vital for the growth and uptake of IoT solutions.”

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CancerLinQ (a Subsidiary of ASCO), Castlight Health and Dharma Platform to Collaborate with SAP on Improving Lives and Reducing Healthcare Costs.

SAP SE today announced the SAP Connected Health platform and strategic relationships to expand its commitment to improving healthcare around the world.

On this platform, a broad ecosystem of partners, including developers, researchers and healthcare organizations, will be able to accelerate the development and delivery of innovative, patient-centered solutions for improving health outcomes, reducing costs and delivering connected healthcare services. SAP is proud to announce multiple strategic relationships in this effort: CancerLinQ, Castlight Health and Dharma Platform. This announcement was made at the 28th annual SAPPHIRE® NOW conference.

Healthcare costs continue to increase globally. In the United States alone, it accounted for 16.4 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2013.¹ Healthcare data, including clinical, genomic, research and healthcare data from the Internet of Things, is expected to increase fivefold by 2020.² The exponentially large amount of information offers new opportunities for the strategic use of data in delivering personalized treatments and value-based care.

Steve Singh, member of the SAP Executive Board, said:

“Creating a truly connected global ecosystem can increase the rate of innovation in healthcare services and improve patient outcomes while reducing costs and accelerating the time to bring innovative solutions to market.”

“With the SAP Connected Health platform, we are bringing together healthcare stakeholders across a platform that fosters and accelerates innovation, placing patients at the center of the healthcare system and in control of their healthcare data. We look forward to working with our partners to make this vision a reality.”

The SAP Connected Health platform runs on the SAP HANA® platform and includes a growing ecosystem of partners that influence every aspect of the cycle of care, from payers to providers to researchers to life sciences companies. SAP’s current offerings for the healthcare market include: SAP Connected Health platform, SAP Health Engagement and SAP Medical Research Insights solutions, and partner solutions. Over time, SAP will build new solutions and partnerships on the SAP Connected Health platform. SAP’s most recent strategic relationships in this effort include the following.

CancerLinQ has been working with SAP to develop a health information technology platform that makes a universe of practice treatment insights accessible to clinicians to improve the care of every patient with cancer. A wholly owned nonprofit subsidiary of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), CancerLinQ connects and analyzes real-world cancer care data from almost any electronic record source.

“ASCO and SAP combine the expertise of the world’s leading oncologists with the market-leading Big Data analytics technology to build and run CancerLinQ, the only rapid-learning system designed by oncologists for oncologists,” said CancerLinQ chief executive officer Kevin Fitzpatrick. “CancerLinQ is currently being used by practices across the United States, and we are excited about its future. The SAP Connected Health platform will significantly enhance our efforts.”

Castlight Health empowers people to make the best choices for their health and helps companies make the most of their health benefits. Castlight delivers a health benefits platform that engages employees to make better healthcare decisions and also enables benefit leaders to communicate and measure their benefits programs.

“Castlight is thrilled to be one of the first partners on the SAP Connected Health platform,” said Giovanni Colella, M.D., cofounder and chief executive officer at Castlight Health. “Our companies are joining together to work toward a shared goal of improving the healthcare system and reducing costs. Using data to drive engagement with healthcare is at the core of everything Castlight does. This extraordinary effort to create an interoperable data platform will help unleash the power of technology to drive better healthcare decisions and outcomes.”

Dharma Platform helps field healthcare workers and researchers collect, understand and analyze medical data gathered in field situations that are often challenging. The last few years have shown how quickly a health crisis can spread from a small, localized event to a global crisis. Dharma captures data at the source and provides tools to transform information into impact.

“Organizations that manage crises, among many others, need information that’s reliable, complete and actionable,” said Jesse Berns, cofounder and chief executive officer at Dharma Platform. “Our team at Dharma looks forward to working with SAP and its many partners through the SAP Connected Health platform to help data save lives in some of the most challenging settings around the world.”

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Smart pills are ingestible medical devices consisting of elements such as sensors, cameras, patches and trackers that help in better diagnostics and monitoring.

These unique devices can be easily swallowed and offer a non-invasive thorough examination of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The smart pills also enables comprehensive health monitoring of various physiological metrics and measuring medication adherence in patients.

Smart pill technology has revolutionized the field of GI diagnosis. Smart pills are likely to replace conventional diagnostic techniques such as endoscopy and colonoscopy. Capsule endoscopy is regarded as a major technical innovation, influencing investigation and management of various small bowel diseases, esophageal disorders, colonic disorders etc. Capsule endoscopes are designed to provide complete examination of GIT including images of esophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine… The capsule endoscopy segment is gaining a strong foothold in the smart pills market.

The capsule endoscopy is noninvasive and causes minimal discomfort. The magnification obtained, here is of the order 1:8, which is much higher as compared to the conventional endoscopy. Various capsule endoscopes available in the market include small bowel capsule, colon capsule and esophagus capsule endoscopes. Small bowel capsule is the most commonly used capsule endoscope in patients with acute gastrointestinal bleeding or to detect symptoms of active Crohn’s disease (CD).On the other hand, esophagus capsule endoscopes are used to diagnose esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus.

Companies today are focusing on exploring the field of gastroenterology. Recent studies by various researchers to develop products have enabled clinicians to obtain clearer & better images of the GI tract which offers new hope for gastrointestinal cancer detection. Recently, researchers from Chinese University of Hong Kong, have developed an advanced endoscope known as ‘Tadpole Endoscope (TE), which mimics the movement of tadpoles’. TE is different from existing wireless capsule endoscopes since the presence of a soft tail enables it to be guided around the GI tract remotely by a clinician. This allows for better imaging of the stomach and thereby helping in the accurate location of problems.

Recently in 2014, Given Imaging Ltd, a pioneer of capsule endoscopy received FDA clearance for PillCam COLON. The device provides new modality to ensure clear visualization of the colon in patients following incomplete colonoscopy. According to some recent studies, incomplete colonoscopies occur in approximately 750,000 patients in the United States alone every year. The number is further higher in women due to an increase in past pelvic surgeries. There is a growing demand for such devices among patients having long case history of abdominal surgery or advanced stage of diverticular disease. This non-invasive test enabled by PillCam COLON allows more people to get screened for colorectal cancer, and gives a minimally invasive, radiation-free option. These devices in the market have revolutionized colorectal cancer diagnostics and screening market worldwide. The following infographics shows how the product PillCam COLON works.

Another key application of smart pills is patient monitoring that includes monitoring of parameters such as pH, temperature, pressure and drug adherence in patients. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) estimate, over 50% of us fail to take medicines correctly, while over 50% of drugs are prescribed or sold inappropriately. This leads to disastrous consequences, resulting in significant complications and deterioration of patient health. The situation aggravates with ageing of patients, since they often require management of one or more chronic conditions with multiple medications. The trend may also cost healthcare providers millions every year.

To deal with such non-adherence in patients due to various reasons, Proteus Digital Health, Inc. California-based Proteus Digital Health and Otsuka Pharmaceuticals have developed smart pill having an ingestible sensor. The digital pill is first of its kind to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an aid to measure medication adherence. The new drug application accepted by FDA was for an oral tablet that combines Otsuka’s branded antipsychotic Abilify (aripiprazole) with an embedded ingestible sensor device developed by Proteus Digital Health The ingestible device consists of minuscule sensors made of silicon along with metals-magnesium and copper, present in traces. The device gets powered on when the metals come in contact with stomach acids thereby triggering the sensor to generate signals that can be picked up by a disposable bandage-like patch worn by patient. The patch relays information to a mobile phone application.

With the patient’s consent, the information can be assessed by caregivers and clinicians, thus helping individuals to develop and sustain healthy habits. Furthermore, it enables medical practitioners and doctors to offer more effective, data-driven health-care. The application can track the drug’s effects – whether it’s been prescribed at the right dosage, or if it simply isn’t having any effect on the patient’s body…

There are many research studies done by market research firms which tracks the current and future market trends along with offering an insight into the key drivers and growth opportunities of the market across major regions. As per a recent report by Allied Market Research, the smart pills technology market would reach $627.1 million, globally, by 2020, registering 21.2% CAGR during the forecast period 2015-2020.

In future, technological advancements to enhance the features of smart pills such as non-invasiveness, patient convenience and real time monitoring would drive their adoption rate in patient monitoring, diagnostic imaging and drug delivery.

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The agreement draws on the two companies’ health sector expertise to deliver Digital Hospital solutions worldwide, with particular emphasis on the Latin America market.

Telefónica Business Solutions, a major provider of wide ranging integrated communication solutions for the B2B market, and Indra, a market leader in information and integrated systems for customers around the world, have signed a global agreement to rollout major integrated digital health projects in hospitals and the healthcare field.

The partnership, which will initially last two years, has been signed by Juan Carlos López Vives, CEO of Telefónica Business Solutions, Cristina Ruiz, Indra Digital’s General Director of Information Technology and Antonio Martos, Global Director of Health of Indra. Its aim is to bring together the health sector experience of both companies to provide the global market with digital hospital solutions. The two companies will jointly provide their IT capabilities and eHealth solutions with particular focus in Latin America.

The digitisation and modernisation of healthcare networks in both the public and private sectors is one of the main areas of transformation faced by healthcare providers throughout the world. The healthcare industry is moving towards a model which guarantees their sustainability from traditional processes; based on more collaborative and connected systems, with infrastructures which allow greater internal efficiency and provide patients and users with greater accessibility to health services.

The concept of the hospital is no longer limited to a physical building. Digital transformation goes beyond walls, enabling new models of the doctor-patient relationships based on remote monitoring and virtual visits, thereby extending care to the home and democratising access to health – of particular value in regions such as Latin America.

Since May 2012 the two companies have collaborated on a monitoring service for chronic patients, a Telefónica-led initiative, with the following ongoing important projects:

• iCOR Project, for remote monitoring of patients with heart failure at the Hospital del Mar in Barcelona
• Telemác Project, for monitoring of patients with COPD, diabetes and hypertension at the Catalan Health Institute
• Valcronic Program, to improve the care of chronic patients in the Valencian Community
• Hogar Digital Asistencial (Digital Home Care), a platform for the care of patients with chronic conditions run by the Regional Government of Galicia

In this way, Indra and Telefónica aim to extend their scheme to other areas and markets.

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IoT platform connects all stakeholders in the new consumer-centric health care ecosystem to promote better lifestyle changes.

ThingWorx, a PTC® business and leading Internet of Things (IoT) platform provider, announced today that ICURO, a consumer-centric care outcomes research and digital health management organization, has selected the ThingWorx® IoT Platform to power its intelligent care models by delivering personalized, actionable health information to consumers in order to promote sustainable healthy habits.

According to a McKinsey & Company report “The big data revolution in healthcare: Accelerating value and innovation,” the era of open information in healthcare has begun. This means that industry payors and providers are beginning to analyze data in order to obtain insights that could identify patterns which could improve treatments and deliver personalized health care information for better lifestyle choices.

ICURO is using the ThingWorx IoT Platform to launch its digital hub for consumer-centric care. It enables ICURO to connect all stakeholders in the new consumer-centric ecosystem consisting of providers, payors, employers, pharmaceuticals, and medical device companies with an integrated care delivery platform. The real time data collection and intelligent analysis of data allow consumers and providers to focus on health outcomes and enable personalized care management pathways.

“ICURO is a good example of how IoT technology can improve communication between health care organizations and consumers to enable better health management and more effective treatments,” said Russ Fadel, president, ThingWorx. “The ThingWorx platform will enable ICURO to simplify and speed its development, reducing the time it takes ICURO to deploy secured healthcare solutions to market.”

Using ThingWorx, ICURO is able to offer consumer and provider-centric dashboards that deliver personalized data that is more meaningful and actionable to the consumer.

“ICURO’s mission is to improve health care access at much lower costs while providing the quality of care and convenience that consumers have come to expect in every other aspect of their digital lives,” said Bipin Thomas, president, ICURO.

“Using the ThingWorx platform we are able to securely and efficiently collect and interpret data from multiple medical devices such as blood pressure monitors, glucometers and cardiac measurement devices that can offer real time care interventions and personalized healthcare management.”

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According to a new research report from the analyst firm Berg Insight, around 3.0 million patients worldwide were using connected home medical monitoring devices at the end of 2013.

This figure comprises all patients that were remotely monitored by a professional caregiver. Patients that use connected medical devices for personal health tracking are not included in this figure. Until 2018, Berg Insight estimates that the number of patients using connected home medical monitoring devices will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 44.4 percent to 19.1 million.

The main application is monitoring of patients with implantable cardiac rhythm management (CRM) devices, which with 2.0 million connections accounted for nearly two thirds of all connected home medical monitoring devices in 2013. Sleep therapy and telehealth are the second and third largest segments with 0.54 million and 0.34 million connections respectively at the end of the year.  All other device categories – including ECG, glucose level, medication adherence, blood pressure, air flow, home sleep tests, blood oxygen and coagulation monitoring – stood for less than 0.1 million connections each. Berg Insight expects that CRM will remain the single largest device segment throughout the forecast period, growing at a CAGR of 15.1 percent to 4.0 million connections by 2018. However, the CRM segment will account for just 21 percent of all connections in 2018, down from 65 percent in 2013, as the use of connectivity is growing faster in other device segments.

Today, more than 70 percent of all connected medical devices rely on PSTN or LAN connectivity for transmitting measurement data to caregivers. However, cellular connectivity has become the most common technology in new medical devices and is forecasted to account for 74 percent of all connections by 2018. A third alternative is that patients use their own mobile devices as health hubs. The bring your own device (BYOD) model can in theory be very cost-efficient as no dedicated hardware or subscriptions are needed, but accounted for less than one percent of all connections in 2013.

Lars Kurkinen, Senior Analyst, Berg Insight, says:

“It is currently more common that caregivers provide a dedicated tablet or smartphone to a patient for remote monitoring than that a patient uses her own device. The main limitation is in the lack of interoperability between medical monitoring devices, smartphones and tablets.”

He adds that mHealth connectivity platforms such as 2net Mobile from Qualcomm Life and HealthKit from Apple are emerging as promising solutions and can allow BYOD health hubs to become the favoured alternative for several groups of patients such as diabetics and asthmatics.

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Qualcomm Inc. today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Qualcomm Life, is launching 2net™ Mobile, a 2net Platform gateway offering.

2net Mobile is one of the first solutions to enable seamless aggregation of clinical data from multiple medical device sensors into one unified stream on a variety of mobile phones and tablets, and transmission of that data in a system designed to meet HIPAA security requirements.
Along with this launch, the 2net Mobile Software Development Kit (SDK) has been made available to developers who intend to commercialize 2net managed services through their applications.

2net Mobile is a software module designed to enable Android smartphones, tablets and other data-capable devices to take on the gateway functionality of the 2net Hub. The 2net Hub, which launched in December 2011, delivers short-range radio flexibility, security, interoperability and seamless data transfer, while serving as the information highway for machine-to-machine connectivity for wireless medical devices into and out of the home. 2net Mobile will allow this connectivity to extend beyond the home so that users can securely monitor and transmit their readings while on-the-go.

“Our objective with the launch of 2net Mobile is to further support our customers’ business strategies in remote patient monitoring, while enhancing the ability to innovate on the 2net Platform,” said Rick Valencia, vice president and general manager, Qualcomm Life.

“Through its open approach to connectivity, transmission and aggregation of data on mobile phones and tablets, 2net Mobile improves the capability of users to monitor their health anytime, anywhere.”

2net Mobile is a white-label solution that is offered by Qualcomm Life’s enterprise customers directly to their own end users. Enterprise customers include healthcare service providers, health device manufacturers and accountable care organizations (ACOs). The 2net Mobile software module is made up of two different applications. One is the 2net Mobile Core that communicates with biometric sensors, acting as a library, and interfaces with the 2net Mobile Application, which has a user interface. The two apps are separate, enabling eligible customers to build their own application around the 2net Mobile Core, adding their own features and functionalities. The 2net Mobile Core is FDA listed as MDDS (Medical Device and Data Systems) Class 1, Class I MDD and CE Registered in Europe, and Class I in Canada.

Along with this launch, the 2net Mobile SDK has been made available to developers. The SDK enables developers of mobile applications on the Android platform to build applications using the tools provided by the SDK and offer seamless connectivity to an open ecosystem of biometric sensors supported by 2net Mobile, through their applications.

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As exclusive wireless communications technology sponsor, Sierra Wireless offers healthcare startups innovative solutions for integrating wireless connectivity into new devices and applications to improve patient care.

Sierra Wireless today announced a sponsorship program with MedStartr, the first crowdfunding platform created to fund healthcare projects, startups, and innovations that help people live longer, healthier lives. As an exclusive sponsor, Sierra Wireless is the preferred provider of wireless communications technology for MedStartr companies.

With healthcare costs continuously rising, technological innovation is a key to increasing efficiency and controlling costs while maintaining high quality patient care and effectively managing chronic diseases. As a sponsor of MedStartr, Sierra Wireless is leveraging its experience working with healthcare companies around the world to provide wireless connectivity for equipment that helps healthcare providers and their patients manage conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, and cognitive disabilities.

MedStartr’s unique, consultative approach for healthcare startup companies sets it apart from similar crowdfunding sites serving other industries. By collaborating with Sierra Wireless, MedStartr companies gain direct access to a full range of wireless connectivity solutions to accelerate their product development. Sierra Wireless solutions include a wide range of AirPrime embedded modules that provide 2G to 4G network access, a comprehensive set of development tools and software libraries to simplify their development process, and the AirVantage M2M Cloud, which provides management capabilities for devices in the field and enables the collection and integration of data from the devices with other back-end systems.

“We are very excited to have Sierra Wireless, a global leader in wireless communications, engaged with our innovative healthcare clients,” said Alex Fair, Founder and CEO of MedStartr.
“Many of our projects have developed great ideas that can benefit from a wireless communications link, and having access to a partner like Sierra Wireless will help them integrate and deploy quickly, speeding time to market and improving their chance of success. Healthcare is an extremely partner-driven industry and partnering with Sierra Wireless is a great move for many of our clients as they develop geo-specific and self-quantification solutions that can make us all healthier.”

“Healthcare is a growing market for wireless connectivity,” said Olivier Pauzet, Vice President of Market Strategy, Embedded Solutions for Sierra Wireless.

“We believe integrating wireless technology into healthcare devices improves the lives of patients managing chronic health conditions and streamlines costs for their healthcare providers without sacrificing quality care. We are pleased to work with MedStartr to help the next generation of healthcare innovators develop and integrate wireless connectivity into their solutions.”

Sierra Wireless is offering developers of healthcare device startup companies the opportunity to win a development package that will enable an end-to-end healthcare device management solution. This package includes a Sierra Wireless Development Kit, embedded software development tools, a six-month trial account for up to 5 devices to connect to AirVantage M2M cloud, enhanced with a pre-paid 20 MB SIM card from a Sierra Wireless M2M operator partner, valid for six months. In addition, MedStartr will offer a consulting session for winners on using the MedStartr platform for crowd funding.

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From 2010 to 2011 usage of remote patient monitoring, or telehealth, increased by 22.2 percent as the number of patients enrolled worldwide reached 241,200.

However, telehealth device revenues only grew by 5.0 percent from 2010 to 2011; and 18.0 percent from 2011 to 2012. InMedica, a division of IMS Research (now part of IHS Inc. (NYSE: IHS)) attributes slow revenue growth over the last year to poor economic conditions leading to restrictions in healthcare funding particularly in Europe, and ambiguity on the impact of healthcare reform and readmission penalties on telehealth in the U.S.

In the U.S., there remained considerable uncertainty on the future of the US healthcare market and the role of telehealth in this market throughout 2012. As the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) began penalizing U.S. hospitals for readmissions in October 2012, many healthcare providers remained unclear on the potential impacts on their institutions and are yet to implement a post-acute care plan. A common sentiment among the providers recently interviewed by InMedica was that, if they are being paid fee-for-service, it will be difficult to justify telehealth. The more pre-paid dollars they can receive (internally and from payers), and the more focus on quality and outcome, the more they can look at implementation. Essentially, if providers can receive payment regardless of whether a patient receives services in or out of the practice, then they have an incentive to move forward. That said, many still have not found the right mix of tools and software applications.

Telehealth is projected to be increasingly incorporated into post-acute care strategies from 2013; it is listed by CMS as one of 13 possible models to reduce readmissions. In addition, as a larger number of patients enter the insurance pool, healthcare payers are projected to adopt telehealth as a population management tool to reduce in-patient costs. Consequently, InMedica forecasts that in 2013, the telehealth market will grow by 55 percent worldwide, in terms of device and service revenues.
Theo Ahadome, senior analyst with InMedica remarked that:
“Telehealth vendors and other stakeholders have an opportunity to help healthcare providers to develop an effective post-acute care strategy. For telehealth to succeed in reaching a wider audience, it needs to break out of being a niche market and become part of a comprehensive patient-care model. This is even more important in the post-acute care market where healthcare providers are more willing to pay for telehealth if it is part of a total post-acute care model. In such a situation, healthcare provider reimbursed or allocated pre-paid funds for patient outcomes irrespective of the chosen method. In some cases and for some diseases, telehealth will be part of that model.”

Of particular concern to the U.S. government is the rise chronic conditions such as heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and obesity in a rapidly aging population. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) indicate that 30 percent of adults 20 years of age and older (or 60 million people) are clinically obese. It is possible that such high rates of obesity could lead to a further explosion in cardiovascular diseases, back pain and diabetes prevalence, providing additional impetus for healthcare cost growth as a result.

Shane Walker, co-author of the recently released InMedica study titled Telehealth – An Analysis of Demand Dynamics – 2012 Edition further stated that:
“Despite criticism of health care reform, it is clear that the long-term goals of the CMS are to move toward greater continuity of care while reducing costs through the avoidance of unnecessary duplication of services. Of course, this will require a period of transition, which the country is in currently. The beginning of this transition is the voluntary creation of accountable care organizations (ACOs), and the implementation of appropriate incentives to foster their adoption. Behavioral change can take time, as seen over the last fifty years with anti-smoking and Physical Fitness Council campaigns, but InMedica believes that telehealth is a tool that can significantly improve clinical outcomes while also achieving the ends of government initiatives. That said, it is clear from the provider and payer interviews conducted during this research that there is still much work to be done in advancing the state of telehealth in the U.S.”

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Solutions Expand in Europe and Latin America with Orange M2M communications.

At the 2012 mHealth Summit in Washington, D.C., Toronto-based remote health provider Ideal Life announced that it has chosen Orange Business Services to expand its remote monitoring solutions for wellness and chronic conditions to an international audience. Orange will provide seamless machine to machine (M2M) wireless connectivity for Ideal Life in Europe and Latin America, promoting comprehensive remote care to the home and preventing non-critical re-admissions of patients to hospitals.

“As an established and comprehensive provider of global M2M solutions, Orange Business Services provides us with the perfect platform to deliver our remote health monitoring services to a greater number of caregivers and insurance providers from around the world,” said Harvey Goldberg, CEO of Ideal Life.

“For healthcare enterprises in these regions, our expanded services will lead to better regulatory compliance, improve their migration to electronic medical records (EMR) and reduce costs. For patients, we can offer a better quality of life with comprehensive and reliable care to more homes, thereby reducing hospital stays and providing around the clock, non-obtrusive preventive care.”

Ideal Life will be offering new medical hubs containing Orange SIM cards. These hubs will reside in the home, collecting data from a variety of health-related devices, from blood pressure monitors to glucose, oxygen saturation and heart rate meters. Once collected, this information is transmitted in real time over the Orange network to physicians who can access it using a variety of devices such as tablets, smartphones and traditional PCs. The application can also format the data into a standardized EMR, improving compliance with recent legislation requiring such records.

Thierry Zylberberg, executive vice president, Orange Healthcare, a division dedicated to developing e-health solutions, said:

“Technology is the gateway for transforming healthcare and improving quality of life.”

“Combining our expertise in e-health with our global M2M solutions, Orange is well placed to deliver advanced m-Health services to our customers like Ideal Life, and in turn to their patients, health professionals, caregivers and insurance carriers, with the goal in part to offer patients and their families peace of mind.”

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