Internet of Medical Things and the healthcare revolution
The term Internet of Medical Things refers to a combination of medical equipment and apps which connect to the internet in order to communicate with the IT systems of hospitals and other healthcare institutions. Patients can be offered a range of different services via these networks, also remotely.
Technology has always played a crucial role in the advancement of healthcare in all its forms but, thanks to the recent expansion of the so-called consumer device (equipped with monitoring facilities) and data analysis systems via cloud, it is apparent that a real revolution is underway in that sector.
Other examples of IoMt devices
The Internet of Medical Things would not be workable without the presence of IoMT devices. Considering the numerous and varied devices in this category, it is important to make a clear distinction between certified devices and fitness trackers.
- The former are in-body devices such as pacemakers, devices for the gradual release of medicines etc. and are worn semi-permanently. They must be fitted and prepared by qualified personnel, as they are used for detailed diagnostic purposes, with latest generation sensors able to monitor many parameters, such as:
- blood glucose levels;
- blood pressure;
- arrhythmias and acceleration of the heart beat;
- oxygen saturation.
They are used mainly for the remote monitoring of patients, especially during the post-operative phase. They communicate with specific analysis platforms and/or hospital systems, via network protocols such as wi-fi, Bluetooth and NFC (Near Field Communication).
Fitness trackers, on the other hand, are consumer devices such as smartwatches or fitwatches, which anyone can purchase from specialised shops or online. Although they are fitted with high quality sensors, even able to perform ECGs, they cannot be used to make diagnoses and are mainly used for coaching.
Through communication (via Bluetooth or wi-fi) with apps that can be installed on smartphones, they help the user keep fit. They can be equipped with virtual trainers which, according to the parameters detected by the device and the age and fitness of the user, can be used to build a personalised training schedule.
Applications and advantages of the Internet of Medical Things
The many applications of the Internet of Medical Things have such wide-ranging potential that they could lead to a radical overhaul of healthcare systems and the use of IoMT devices capable of revolutionising the doctor-patient relationship, one which until recently was based on more traditional, less flexible forms of communication and interaction.
In telemedicine for example, the monitoring of routine cases is almost entirely managed by intelligent machines. By using remotely collected data, they are able to recommend the most suitable treatment, only contacting a doctor in the most complex cases.
Emergency situations can also benefit greatly from IoMT equipment, as such devices can send specific data to specialists before they actually see the patients. The opportunity to have an overview of the situation in advance enables medics to intervene immediately and as effectively as possible, thereby increasing patients’ chances of survival.
The examples mentioned above are just some of the many ways in which the IoMT can guarantee significant benefits for the entire healthcare system. A recent survey also highlighted some interesting and encouraging figures regarding potential financial advantages deriving from this technology.
According to estimates in fact, the CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of the global IoMT market is expected to increase by 18.5% (approximately 284.5 million dollars) by 2027. The most significant figure however, relates to potential savings to be made in the healthcare sector, estimated at around 300 million dollars per year.
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
