The Role of Wearable Devices in Remote Patient Monitoring

 

Wearable technology is not new. Although it seems it is a product of recent years, it has a rich history that dates to several centuries. Let us briefly understand a bit about wearable devices and how they have been helpful in Remote Patient Monitoring Services in the present times.

The Evolution of Wearable Devices

It can be safely said that one of the first wearable devices that humankind has known since the 17^th century is the pocket watch. More recently, in 2002, the Bluetooth headset marked the beginning when wearables started becoming more accepted. GoPro revolutionized wearable cameras in 2004, while Fitbit paved the way for wearable technology for health-conscious users. Today, wearable technology ranges from fitness trackers to smartwatches. They monitor aspects such as heart rate and sleep patterns. More advanced wearables include specific ECG monitors that even help track atrial fibrillation. The explosion in wearables, especially in recent times, has become possible thanks to advancements in technology, such as increased miniaturization and improved battery life. Earlier, wearables were standalone devices. However, they are a part of a broader ecosystem today. They involve IoT, cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning.

What is Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)

Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) is a relatively novel approach in healthcare. It leverages digital technologies to collect health information from individuals in one location and transmit it to a healthcare facility in a different location. Although the location may be geographically distant from the patient, the healthcare facility remotely monitors the patient's health and other vital parameters. This helps the provision of care beyond the constraints of traditional healthcare facilities. Conventionally, RPM involves three main steps:

• Collection of healthcare data from the patient:

        The patient has a wearable device that can track various healthcare parameters. These variables include heart rate, blood pressure, glucose levels, and oxygen saturation. Therefore, the data can provide a comprehensive and continuous representation of a patient's health that would be difficult to achieve in a traditional healthcare setting.

• Transmission of data to a healthcare provider:

         With the help of wireless connectivity, it is possible to send collected data to the healthcare provider in real time. A device such as a smartphone acts as an intermediary to forward the data to the healthcare provider's system. With the help of specialized software, it is possible to monitor a patient's health status and determine any existing abnormalities.

• Analysis of relevant data

              Doctors use the results analyzed to inform the patient of any treatment decisions. It is also possible to deploy unique artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms so that patterns and potential health risks can be identified. This also helps advance the cause of proactive care.

Wearable Devices and Remote Patient Monitoring

Wearables have now made inroads into the healthcare sector. Here, their role has been transformative. Rather than just providing simple fitness tracking solutions, these devices are being used to monitor patients remotely and in telehealth. This has led to a more personalized and effective form of patient care. Today, such devices measure more than heart rate and track steps. They are a blend of various technological components that are designed to collect, transmit, and analyze data. Sensors within wearable devices help monitor physiological parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and glucose levels. These sophisticated sensors help these devices perform a wide range of health-related functions. 

Future Trends for Wearable Technology in Healthcare

The future holds great promise for wearable technology as the technology is set to become even more relevant. Advancements in sensor technology and related areas, such as artificial intelligence, will help wearable technology take on a whole new meaning. The capabilities of wearables will continue to expand as new possibilities emerge for improving health outcomes and quality of life.

Conclusion

Today, wearable devices have revolutionized Remote Health Monitoring. They have made it more efficient and patient-friendly. Now, the focus is on making treatment more proactive. The emphasis is on prevention and earlier intervention by providing real-time and continuous health data. This helps doctors monitor the health of their patients remotely. At the same time, they can intervene in a timely fashion and deliver more effective care. The concluding question is when the right time is to embrace RPM.

The time is ripe for healthcare providers and patients to embrace wearables in RPM and related technologies. Innovators, too, need to push boundaries and address challenges to drive healthcare boundaries further.  OmniMD’s RPM platform is designed to empower healthier behaviors and reduce the financial strain on patients, healthcare providers, and related stakeholders. This technology is a convenient option that helps provide the level of care you need from the comfort of your home. Contact us to learn more!