That’s because wider deployments have the potential to gather more information, boost doctor-patient face time and expedite decision-making, said Chris Sullivan, global healthcare practice lead for Zebra Technologies, in a recent HealthTech Twitter chat.
Here are some of the many reasons why IoMT adoption makes sense:
1. It Enhances and Expedites Clinician Workflows
Tools that can be carried in a provider’s palm — or pocket — offer big convenience at the point of care. Consider the latest generation of clinical mobile computers in use at organizations such as Memorial Hermann Health System in Texas. The machines offer secure messaging, barcode scanning, image transmission and long battery life so staff can perform critical duties beyond stationary command posts or without a bulky cart.
2. It Enables Extreme Connectivity
Greater automation and insights are in the DNA of IoMT functions. Strong examples include “smart pills,” which, when swallowed, deliver messages to an arm patch that sends notifications to a doctor’s smartphone. Or familiar medical devices such as ultrasound machines that can send scans seamlessly to an electronic health record. In busy environments, RFID tags detect real-time locations of supplies, patients and staff.
3. It Supports Care from a Distance
A growing concept known as remote patient monitoring involves the at-home use of Wi-Fi- or Bluetooth-enabled devices (such as blood pressure cuffs or glucose monitors) to collect and transmit data to providers who can evaluate the long-term metrics to spot signs of trouble. RPM deployments at UCLA Health and Children’s Health in Dallas, have curbed readmissions, improved medication adherence and lowered costs.