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The IoT medical domain is a fast-growing one, with multiple innovations being developed regularly. From smart monitors to patient diagnostic machines, there are radical solutions being launched to address holistic health care challenges. Analysts are also predicting major shifts in how the health care industry views IoT, with the introduction of AI and Machine Learning into the equation.
Research by Deloitte Consulting suggests that the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) market is set to reach $158.1 billion in 2022, owing to the rise in demand for better-quality medical technology. Additionally, increased access to patient data is making it easier to incorporate IoMT devices seamlessly. The health care value chain is impacted across the board, making these 10 applications critical in the IoMT domain.
1. IoMT as a Movement Detector
For immobile patients or those that are bound, it’s essential to detect the slightest of movements on the body. That’s why smart monitors and sensors are placed on the clothing, bed, or skin of the patient to monitor their movements. This can also help with tracking involuntary movements to provide better insights into proper diagnosis management. Apple launched its Movement Disorder API to help monitor patients with Parkinson’s disease. The data captured is encrypted from end to end, giving greater privacy to patients.
2. Real-time Patient Health Monitoring
A critical aspect of IoMT is the tracking of patient health across parameters. This is especially helpful in the case where patients need consistent monitoring through a cost-effective mechanism. Different sensors can help track distinct areas of information such as heart rate, glucose level, respiration, etc. to provide a complete picture. DocBox is a prime example of a patient monitoring platform that works with health care professionals directly. The information is passed directly through an API that is connected to a larger homecare telehealth system.
3. Fitness Tracking and Diagnostics
The ecosystem of fitness trackers is booming, with many being specialized for unique disease states. These fitness trackers help diagnose underlying conditions through a lifestyle analysis. From sleep quality to patient heart tracking, the information can be used by insurance agencies and health care specialists. Fitness trackers can also update patients on their progress, especially in the case of rehabilitation and recovery.
4. Ingestible Sensors and Cameras
Ingestible sensors are some of the more innovative forms of IoMT applications. They are disrupting traditional ways of screening for diseases and are allowing more cost-effective methods to take shape. PillCam, a swallowed camera capsule, helps screen colon cancer by providing real-time visual monitoring. Specialists can perform their initial screening using the data shared by the pill. Check-Cap, a similar IoMT developer, focuses on a three-part model. “The technology includes three main elements,” says Check-Cap CEO Alex Ovadia. “One is the ingestible X-ray capsule. The second is the tracking and recording system. And the third one is the proprietary workstation that allows the physician to perform diagnostics.”
5. Smart Continuous Glucose Monitoring
For diabetic patients, receiving access to glucose levels is critical. Smart glucose monitors can help provide that information for patients in real time. It can also share key insights into managing their glucose levels better so that they can reduce their risk of an episode. Using a combination of non-invasive glucose bio-sensing and wearables technology, insulin levels can be tracked effectively. The MINIMED 670G automatically optimizes insulin levels based on constant tracking of core parameters.
6. Connected Inhaler Delivery Systems
Smart inhalers are also leading the way for the IoMT industry in general. The inhaler can track critical metrics such as inhalation flow rate, flow speed, inhaled volume, stimulus time, and location of each transmission. This helps in optimizing the delivery channel via the IoMT ecosystem. Bluetooth technology enables the sharing of that data to your smartphone, as you use analytics to your advantage. The technology also enhances medication adherence, so that patients are more compliant in the case of chronic conditions.
7. Asset Monitoring and Maintenance
In the B2B side of health care systems, the monitoring of asset health is important. This includes the regular maintenance and upkeep of machinery, technology, and data systems. That’s where medical device manufacturers install IoMT devices to share asset data wirelessly. All assets can be tracked remotely to ensure that the machines are operating effectively. Additionally, key trends can be mapped and used to enhance NPD and research.
8. Developing a Robust EHR System
EHR systems can be designed to incorporate data from medical devices into one seamless system. Doctors and health care professionals can access all reports and key files directly from the cloud, to optimize the channel fully. EHR systems will have to rely on the constant transmission of IoMT device data, which in turn enhances the overall health care system. IoMT devices are required to have consistent uptime so that they can share information seamlessly.
9. Virtual Home Systems
For homebound patients and seniors with chronic illnesses, a virtual home system is the most crucial aspect of getting the right treatment. They introduce interactivity and a seamless mechanism to communicate with health care providers. Lenovo Health, in partnership with Orbita Health, developed a chronic and post-acute care system that worked fully on voice-inputs. Using smart sensors and AI technology solutions, it allows greater connectivity at the patient’s home.
10. Personal Emergency Response Systems
One of the greatest challenge areas is related to emergency response times and getting to patients in time. That’s where IoMT devices are being used extensively to create scalable solutions that allow patients to get quicker help. These devices can automatically detect when a patient has fallen and send the right help immediately. ActiveProtective’s smart belt can be worn around the waist as a protective measure, as it uses Bluetooth and AI to send real-time data.
There is a wide range of applications that are being designed in the IoMT space. Innovations are being developed to serve key gaps within the value chain, while working within the industry to aid in greater adoption. Along with the development of technology, there is extensive training required to be given to patients, caregivers, and health care professionals.