Hospital at Home Waiver Extension: Your 5-Year Technology Roadmap

by Ree AI Health Tech Med Tech

The House spending bill dropped a bombshell for digital health companies: a proposed 5-year extension for hospital-at-home waivers and 2-year extension for Medicare telehealth flexibilities.

Five years sounds like forever in tech time. But it’s actually a strategic planning nightmare.

Do you build for temporary policy, or bet everything on permanence?

I spent 2 years managing care for my terminally ill husband across 10 different doctors. Every month, he landed back in the hospital with high A1C, low hemoglobin, unbearable pain. If hospital-at-home programs had existed in 2016 with the right technology backing them, he could have avoided dozens of ER visits.

Hospital at home is the future. The question is, what should Series A, B and C health tech founders build in the next 24 months that creates value regardless of what Congress does in 2030?

This isn’t about policy speculation. It’s about strategic planning with incomplete information—which is exactly what building a health tech company requires.

Let’s break down the roadmap.

Contents

What the Proposed Funding Package Actually Changes

Source: Modern Healthcare

The proposed House spending bill extends two critical Medicare programs—but on very different timelines. Understanding these differences matters if you’re building technology in this space.

The 5-year hospital-at-home timeline explained

The proposed legislation would extend the hospital-at-home waiver through 2030. This isn’t just another short-term patch. Previous extensions gave health systems and tech companies 12-18 months of runway at best.

The current acute hospital care at home initiative lets Medicare pay for hospital-level services delivered in patients’ homes. Without the extension, this program expires in 2025. That’s not enough time to build, validate, and scale meaningful technology infrastructure.

Five years gives you real planning horizon. You can make legitimate platform investments. You can hire engineering teams. You can sign multi-year contracts with health systems.

But—and this is critical—5 years isn’t permanent. It’s a policy experiment with a longer fuse.

What’s still uncertain despite the extension

Even with a 5-year extension, huge questions remain unanswered. CMS hasn’t committed to specific reimbursement rates beyond the waiver period. Will hospital-at-home payments match facility-based acute care, or will they drop to home health rates?

State regulations vary wildly. Some states embrace home-based acute care. Others have licensing requirements that make it nearly impossible. Federal waivers don’t override state-level barriers.

Commercial payers watch Medicare but don’t automatically follow. Your hospital-at-home technology needs Medicare coverage to scale, but commercial adoption determines whether you build a sustainable business.

Technology requirements could shift too. CMS might mandate specific monitoring capabilities, interoperability standards, or quality reporting metrics that don’t exist yet.

Planning for 5 years means planning for uncertainty, not betting on stability.

Most Founders Are Asking the Wrong Question

When the House bill news broke, founder group chats exploded with one question: “Does this mean hospital-at-home is permanent?” That’s the wrong question. It reveals a misunderstanding of how health tech businesses actually succeed or fail.

“Is this permanent?” misses the strategic point

Policy permanence has never guaranteed health tech success. Remote patient monitoring has had Medicare coverage since 2019. Chronic care management codes have existed for years. Both have clear reimbursement pathways. Both have policy stability.

Yet most RPM companies struggle to achieve profitability. Many CCM platforms shut down despite favorable policy.

The real risk isn’t policy reversal. It’s building something nobody needs or can’t afford to operate. Investors price in regulatory risk and execution challenges unique to healthcare.

Your business model needs to create value across multiple scenarios. If hospital-at-home waivers expire in 2030, can your technology pivot to post-acute care? Skilled nursing facilities? Palliative care at home? If you’ve built exclusively for one reimbursement code, you’ve built a fragile company.

The trap of building exclusively for waivers

Female doctor waving to female patient on Zoom

Remember the telehealth boom of 2020-2021? Some telehealth companies that scaled to thousands of employees during COVID laid off half their staff by 2023.

They weren’t bad companies. They built for a policy moment, not a durable market need.

VCs learned an expensive lesson: waiver-dependent revenue is risky revenue. When I talk to Series B investors now, they ask pointed questions. What percentage of your revenue requires temporary policy? If that policy changes, what’s your Plan B? Can you operate profitably under traditional Medicare rates?

If you can’t answer those questions convincingly, your valuation suffers—even if current policy looks favorable.

What “5 years” really means for your product roadmap

Five years is approximately two technology development cycles for complex healthcare platforms. You can ship an MVP, gather real-world evidence, iterate based on feedback, and launch a mature v2.0 product in that timeframe.

But 5 years isn’t enough time to build everything. You need to prioritize ruthlessly.

Your 24-month window is critical. This is when you validate product-market fit, prove unit economics, and establish your competitive moat. If you can’t demonstrate margin-positive cohorts by month 24, the next 3 years won’t save you.

Years 3 to 5 should assume policy uncertainty, not stability. Build optionality into your architecture. Make sure your platform can serve multiple care settings. Design your data infrastructure to support different payment models.

One scenario planning exercise: map out what your business looks like if hospital-at-home waivers expire in 2030 versus extend another 5 years vs. become permanent. If all three scenarios require fundamentally different strategies, you’re not building a durable company. You’re building a policy bet.

Your 24-Month Minimum Viable Stack

The next 2 years determine everything. You need to build technology that proves value quickly while laying foundation for longer-term expansion. Here’s where to focus your engineering resources and capital.

Core infrastructure that works across reimbursement models

Start with the basics that every home-based care model needs, regardless of how Medicare pays for it.

Remote patient monitoring devices need to integrate seamlessly with your platform. But don’t overbuild here. Start with FDA-cleared devices for vital signs (blood pressure, pulse ox, weight, glucose). Specialty monitoring for rare conditions can wait until you’ve proven your core model works.

Virtual triage and clinical communication platforms matter more than most founders realize. When a patient’s oxygen saturation drops at 3 a.m., someone needs to decide: send an ambulance, dispatch a nurse, or coach the patient through the moment remotely? That decision-making capability is what health systems pay for, not just the device data.

Care orchestration is the unsexy backbone nobody wants to build but everyone needs. Who schedules the nurse visit? Who orders medical supplies? Who coordinates with the patient’s primary care doctor? These back-office functions represent over half of the $1 trillion in annual U.S. healthcare waste. Automating them creates immediate ROI.

EHR integration isn’t optional. Payers demand it. Health systems require it. Your platform needs to pull patient data from Epic, Cerner, and other major EHRs, then push back visit notes, monitoring data, and care plans. Budget 20 to 30% of your engineering resources just for integration work.

Where to invest in AI right now

Source: Health Care Code

Ambient clinical intelligence (ACI) has reached near-universal adoption: 92% of health systems are piloting or deploying AI scribes. These tools improve documentation accuracy, leading to 10 to 15% revenue capture improvement through better coding and billing.

For hospital-at-home programs, this matters enormously. Nurses and paramedics doing home visits often struggle with documentation. They’re managing complex patients in unpredictable environments. AI that turns their verbal notes into structured clinical documentation saves 30 to 45 minutes per visit.

Predictive analytics should focus on preventing acute episodes that require hospitalization. Machine learning models can analyze vital sign trends, medication adherence patterns, and social determinants data to flag patients at risk of decompensation. One health system using predictive monitoring reduced readmissions by 23% in their hospital-at-home cohort—that’s the difference between a margin-positive program and one that loses money on every patient.

Don’t sleep on care coordination automation. If family caregivers spend 15-20 hours per week on caregiving tasks (as CareYaya Health Technologies data shows), your AI should reduce that burden. Automated medication reminders, appointment scheduling, and supply ordering aren’t flashy features, but they’re what caregivers desperately need.

The unsexy AI that saves money: Back-office automation in revenue cycle management, prior authorization, and claims integrity. These AI applications can reach 70-80% profit margins and generate $500K-$1M in annual recurring revenue per full-time employee. That cash flow funds your clinical AI development.

The Margin Math That Actually Matters

Most hospital-at-home programs lose money. Your technology needs to change that equation, or you don’t have a sustainable business.

Why most hospital-at-home programs lose money

Medicare pays $1,000 to $1,500 per day for hospital-at-home. Most programs spend $1,200 to $1,600 per patient daily on nurse visits, supplies, coordination, and tech. They’re underwater from Day 1.

The hidden costs kill you. Logistics and care orchestration require significant labor. Someone schedules visits, manages the supply chain, and coordinates with the patient’s other providers. Traditional staffing models don’t scale—you can’t apply facility-based nursing ratios to home care and expect it to work economically.

Technology that creates work instead of reducing it makes the problem worse. I’ve seen hospital-at-home platforms that require nurses to log into five different systems per visit. The documentation burden exceeds what they’d do in a hospital setting.

How AI makes care at home programs profitable

Revenue cycle optimization through better documentation can improve revenue capture by 10-15%. When a nurse describes a patient’s condition verbally and AI generates accurate, complete clinical notes with proper billing codes, you get paid more for the same work.

Source: MDhelpTEK

Reduced readmissions drive CMS quality bonuses. The hospital-at-home model already shows lower readmission rates than traditional acute care—adding predictive monitoring amplifies that advantage. Every readmission you prevent saves $10,000 to $15,000 in costs and protects against CMS penalties.

Labor cost reduction matters most. AI triage can cut nurse workload by 40%+ in pilot programs. Instead of nurses manually reviewing monitoring data for every patient, AI flags only the patients who need clinical attention. A nurse who previously managed 5-6 hospital-at-home patients can now manage 8 to 10.

The “unsexy” AI that CFOs love but VCs overlook: billing, coding, claims integrity. Administrative AI can reduce operational costs by 30-40%. That’s real margin improvement hitting your income statement immediately.

Proving ROI to your board in the next 6 months

Source: ScribeMD

Your board doesn’t care about utilization growth if you’re losing money on every patient. They care about these metrics:

  • Cost per episode: What does it actually cost you to manage one hospital-at-home patient from admission to discharge? Track this ruthlessly. Break it down by component: labor, supplies, technology, overhead.
  • Readmission rates: Hospital-at-home programs typically achieve 8 to 12% 30-day readmission rates versus 15 to 18% for traditional hospital care. If your program doesn’t beat facility-based benchmarks, you have a quality problem.
  • Patient satisfaction: CMS increasingly ties reimbursement to patient experience scores. Hospital-at-home programs score 15-20 points higher on patient satisfaction versus facility care. That’s your competitive advantage.

Structure pilot programs that generate defensible data. Work with 2 to 3 health systems willing to share financial and outcomes data transparently. You need to prove your technology improves margins, not just clinical outcomes.

The difference between utilization metrics and profitability metrics: lots of patients using your platform means nothing if each one loses money. Focus on contribution margin per patient. When does that number go positive? What’s the path to 40 to 50% gross margins?

The 3 to 5 Year Platform Expansion Strategy

Once you’ve proven your core model works and generates positive margins, you can think bigger. The next phase is about expanding beyond your initial use case.

From point solution to platform

Bessemer’s State of Health AI report describes “supernova” companies that achieve 6-10x growth trajectories by expanding from single point solutions into comprehensive platforms. Ambient scribes became full clinical documentation suites. Prior authorization tools became complete utilization management platforms.

The pattern:

  1. Start with a painful, well-defined problem.
  2. Solve it better than anyone else.
  3. Expand into adjacent workflows that touch the same users.

For hospital-at-home technology, that might mean starting with post-surgical patients recovering at home. Prove you can manage that population safely and profitably. Then expand to heart failure management, COPD exacerbations, cellulitis treatment, chemotherapy administration.

Each expansion requires clinical validation and new reimbursement navigation. But your core technology infrastructure of monitoring, triage, care coordination, documentation stays largely the same.

Value-based care integration timeline

Source: Activated Insights

Hospital-at-home is a wedge into value-based care contracts, not just fee-for-service reimbursement. Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) and Medicare Advantage plans care deeply about reducing avoidable hospitalizations. If your platform keeps patients out of expensive facility-based care, ACOs will pay for it.

But commercial adoption lags Medicare by 18 to 24 months historically. Don’t expect widespread MA plan adoption until 2027 to 2028, even with favorable hospital-at-home policy.

Self-insured employers represent a faster path to commercial revenue. Large employers pay directly for employee healthcare. When they see data showing hospital-at-home reduces costs by 30-40% versus facility admissions, they’ll write checks. Companies like Cubby, who secured $63 million in Series A funding led by Guggenheim Partners, are targeting this employer market specifically for in-home care solutions.

To position for risk-bearing contracts in years 3 to 5, you need data infrastructure now. Start collecting outcomes data, cost data, and patient experience data from day one. Value-based contracts require you to prove your intervention changes total cost of care—not just that patients like your service.

Decision Framework for Health Tech Boards

If you’re a founder presenting hospital-at-home strategy to your board, or a board member evaluating your company’s approach, here are the right questions to ask.

5 questions your board should ask right now

  1. What percentage of our revenue depends on waiver-specific reimbursement? If it’s above 50%, you have concentration risk. Diversify your payer mix and care settings.
  2. If the waiver expires in 5 years, what’s our Plan B business model? You should have a concrete answer. Can you pivot to post-acute care? Palliative care? Chronic disease management? If the answer is “we’re screwed without waivers,” you’re not building a durable company.
  3. Are we building technology that creates value in multiple care settings? The best health tech platforms work across hospital-at-home, skilled nursing, home health, and ambulatory settings. Flexibility equals durability.
  4. How quickly can we prove margin-positive unit economics? If you can’t show positive contribution margin by month 24, extending the timeline to month 36 won’t magically fix the problem. You have a business model issue, not a scale issue.
  5. What’s our competitive moat if 10 other startups get this same 5-year runway? Policy tailwinds create competition. What’s your defensible advantage? Clinical outcomes data? Payer relationships? Technology that’s genuinely better, not just first to market?

Investor perspective on policy-dependent businesses

Source: WallStreetMojo

VCs underwrite regulatory risk by discounting valuations and requiring faster paths to profitability. A pure software company might get 7-10 years to reach profitability. A health tech company with policy dependency gets 3-5 years maximum.

The valuation discount for waiver-dependent revenue can be brutal. Health tech companies trade at 10-20% below cloud software comparables—and that’s before factoring in temporary policy risk.

Some investors love policy tailwinds. They want to ride the wave while it’s building. Others avoid policy-dependent businesses entirely, no matter how attractive the market opportunity looks.

Position your pitch carefully. Are you policy-enabled (taking advantage of favorable reimbursement to scale faster) or policy-dependent (can’t exist without specific waivers)? The former gets funded at reasonable valuations. The latter struggles.

What I Wish Existed When I Was a Caregiver

Let me bring this back to why any of this matters. The technology decisions health tech founders make over the next 24 months will determine what tools families like mine have access to in 2026 and beyond.

The gap between technology capability and real-world reliability

Source: Aptiva Medical

My husband’s Dexcom continuous glucose monitor worked beautifully—when it synced properly. The app sent alerts to my phone whenever his blood sugar went dangerously high or low. That device probably saved his life multiple times.

But it only worked because the technology was reliable:

  • The sensor stayed attached.
  • The Bluetooth connection held.
  • The app didn’t crash.

I’ve seen hospital-at-home platforms that look impressive in demos but break under real caregiver stress. The dashboard shows beautiful data visualizations—but requires three different logins to access. The monitoring devices pair easily in the clinic—but fail when WiFi is weak in rural areas.

Care coordination platforms often assume 24/7 nurse availability. They don’t account for the reality that small hospital-at-home programs can’t staff round-the-clock coverage.

Build for the worst-case scenario, not the ideal one.

Building for the sandwich generation managing multiple conditions

Source: Graying with Grace

My husband had 10 doctors. Ten! A primary care physician, nephrologist, endocrinologist, oncologist, cardiologist, and five other specialists. Your platform needs the capability to handle that complexity.

Nobody coordinated between them. I was the coordination layer. I maintained a spreadsheet with all his medications—drug names, dosages, prescribing doctors, reasons for taking them, refill schedules. The nurses loved my spreadsheet because their systems couldn’t give them the same view.

Insurance coordination created endless frustration. My employer’s insurance was primary while Medicare was secondary. Every billing department called me multiple times to confirm this. I explained the same thing to the hospital billing office, the lab, the imaging center, the pharmacy.

Your hospital-at-home platform should automate this nightmare. Pull medication lists from multiple prescribers. Flag potential drug interactions. Coordinate insurance claims automatically. Don’t make family caregivers become project managers.

Why I care about this 5-year window

Families like mine in 2026 deserve better than what I had in 2016.

The technology exists now, and the clinical models work. The question is implementation and sustainability.

Health tech founders have a moral obligation beyond shareholder returns. Yes, you need to build a profitable business and generate returns for your investors. But you’re also building tools that will serve people during the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

This isn’t about making a quick buck off temporary Medicare waivers then exiting before they expire. It’s about building something that lasts. Something that works. Something that actually helps families manage impossible complexity.

When you’re making technology decisions over the next 24 months, remember: real people will rely on what you build. Build something worthy of that trust.

The Path Forward

The proposed 5-year extension for hospital-at-home waivers isn’t a guarantee. It’s a window.

What you build in the next 24 months determines whether your company survives beyond 2030—regardless of what happens with federal policy.

The smartest founders build technology that creates value across multiple reimbursement scenarios. Focus on margin-positive unit economics. Solve real problems for real families—the kind of problems I faced as a caregiver managing impossible complexity across disconnected systems.

  • Start with the unsexy AI that makes programs profitable: revenue cycle management, clinical documentation, coding accuracy. These aren’t sexy pitch deck slides, but they generate cash flow.
  • Build your minimum viable stack around care orchestration and monitoring that works when human resources are constrained. Health systems can’t hire infinite nurses. Your technology needs to make existing staff dramatically more productive.
  • Structure pilot programs that generate defensible ROI data within 6 months. You need proof points for your next fundraise and for health system expansion.
  • Stress-test your business model. If hospital-at-home waivers expire in 2030, what’s Plan B? If you don’t have a good answer, you’re building on quicksand.

Five years is enough time to build something durable if you start with the right foundation. It’s not nearly enough time if you’re building for a policy moment instead of a market need.

The families who need hospital-at-home can’t wait for perfect policy clarity. They need technology that works today and keeps working tomorrow. So build for that reality.

Want to discuss your hospital-at-home technology strategy? Connect with me on LinkedIn or explore more health tech analysis at reewrites.com.

References

Bessemer Venture Partners. (2026). State of Health AI 2026. Retrieved from https://www.bvp.com/atlas/state-of-health-ai-2026

Fox, A. (2026). 2026 House spending bill proposes 2-year telehealth and 5-year hospital-at-home waiver extensions. Healthcare IT News. Retrieved from https://www.healthcareitnews.com/news/2026-house-spending-bill-proposes-2-year-telehealth-and-5-year-hospital-home-waiver-extensions

Gardner, S. & Hooper, K. (2026). Health tech panel to reboot after a long break. Politico Pulse. Retrieved from https://www.politico.com/newsletters/politico-pulse/2026/01/21/health-tech-panel-to-reboot-after-a-long-break-00737790

Gonzales, M. (2026). Proposed Funding Package Would Extend Hospital-at-Home Program, Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities. Home Health Care News. Retrieved from https://homehealthcarenews.com/2026/01/proposed-funding-package-would-extend-hospital-at-home-program-medicare-telehealth-flexibilities/

Stock Titan. (2026). Cubby secures $63 million in Series A funding round led by Growth. Retrieved from https://www.stocktitan.net/news/GS/cubby-secures-63-million-in-series-a-funding-round-led-by-growth-ikgye2ab40md.html

Zanchi, M. G. (2026). AI Journal. The “unsexy” revolution within healthcare AI. Retrieved from https://aijourn.com/the-unsexy-revolution-within-healthcare-ai/

The Uncomfortable Truth About Patient-Centered Design in Health Tech that I Learned at CES 2026

The Uncomfortable Truth About Patient-Centered Design in Health Tech that I Learned at CES 2026

by Ree AI Caregiving Health Tech Med Tech UX

I went to the CES 2026’s Digital Health Summit in my new city of Las Vegas, and yes, I oohed and ahhed at the dancing robots and awesome cars and vehicles on display.

But this isn’t your usual “look at this shiny new device” content you’ll see everywhere else about CES. I’m going to share the hard truths that came directly from patients, caregivers, and the organizations who represent them.

If you’re building healthtech, this is what your users are actually saying about what works, what doesn’t, and what they desperately need you to stop doing. Let’s go!

Contents

Left to right: Jennifer Goldsack, Randall Rutta, Alice Pomponio, Jake Heller, and Yuge Xiao

Product Design Failures Nobody Talks About

Your product design isn’t neutral

Randy Rutta from The National Health Council shared a couple of stories that should make every product team pause:

  1. A major pharma company launched inhalable insulin with all the confidence in the world. The technology was solid, and the marketing was ready, but it flopped completely because they never asked patients if they’d actually use it.

    It turns out that people managing diabetes need precision. Something sprayed into your lungs doesn’t feel precise, even if the science says it is. Plus, patients hated the inhaler design itself. Simple focus groups made of their target user base would have caught both issues before millions were spent on development and launch.
  1. Another story hit even harder for me as a Black woman. Randy said a Black woman refused to wear a health monitoring device because it was a bulky black device on her waistband that made her afraid of being stopped by police. Her solution was painfully simple: “If it came in pink, it would have changed everything for me.”

This isn’t about inclusion for inclusion’s sake. It’s about building products that don’t put users at risk. Product design is literally life-or-death for some users.

Randy also mentioned patients with eczema and psoriasis who can’t wear certain devices because they’re too sensitive to materials touching their skin. That’s a deal-breaker for entire patient populations—a product design consideration that could eliminate your addressable market if you ignore it.

Engage patients early or pay later

Alice Pomponio from American Cancer Society’s venture capital arm sees this pattern constantly. You have to think beyond product features to systemic change. She asks founders: “What is not only the short-term product development strategy, but also the longer-term healthcare systemic step change you’re planning to deliver?”

Get patient voices around your cap table. Diversify your board perspective. Even if you have a great management team with good intentions, without a board that supports patient-centered decisions, you’ll lose the opportunity to make cost-effective strategic choices upfront.

It’s cheaper to fix problems during design than during M&A negotiations when your product strategy determines your acquisition price.

Women’s Health Tech Is Broken

Left to right: Sheena Franklin and Maya Friedman

Women are done waiting for tech that works for THEM

Sheena Franklin of K’ept Health interviewed Maya Friedman from Tidepool about how healthtech uses males as the default for AI.

Maya dropped a statistic that should embarrass the entire diabetes tech industry: 70% of women with type 1 diabetes experience insulin sensitivity changes around their menstrual cycles, but there are NO clinical guidelines or algorithms designed for this. Nothing. So women have to manually adjust their diabetes management systems every single month because the technology assumes their bodies work like men’s bodies.

“We need to stop thinking about women’s health as reproductive health. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯’𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩.”

The data gap is massive

Maya Friedman

Maya referenced a project called “The Library of Missing Data Sets,” an art exhibition of hundreds of empty filing cabinets labeled with data sets that don’t exist across different industries. When you look at what’s missing, you see where biases already exist in healthcare.

As AI becomes more prevalent, these data gaps will replicate the same biases we’re trying to fix. That’s why every healthcare technology company needs infrastructure for data collection at the intersection of women’s health. Not as a “nice to have.” As a business requirement.

Tidepool partnered with Oura to build the largest longitudinal data set of diabetes device data combined with biometric data. They’re distributing Oura rings to thousands of users already on the Tidepool platform. The data will include:

  • Activity tracking
  • Sleep patterns
  • Menstrual cycle data
  • Diabetes device data from the same individuals
  • Health surveys for contextual data

This is what infrastructure looks like when you take women’s health seriously.

Algorithms need to be smarter

Maya’s immediate priority: building algorithms that aren’t “cycle agnostic.” She wants systems that account for 30-day hormonal patterns, not just 72-hour learning horizons.

“Women are not just tiny men. We have different needs. We need to display different data. We need algorithms that are potentially different for women versus men.” – Maya Friedman, Tidepool

And yes, that means maintaining multiple versions of products.

Yes, it’s more expensive. But it’s also addressing the actual market need instead of pretending half the population doesn’t exist.

It’s not just about menstrual cycles

Maya’s longer-term vision includes AI models that are dynamic across different reproductive milestones. What does an algorithm look like for someone in perimenopause who isn’t having regular periods? What are the learning horizons for that system?

The real moonshot? A fully closed-loop system that accounts for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), type 1 diabetes, and menstrual cycles without requiring patient interaction at all.

Women need tech that doesn’t make them choose between their health needs and their time.

Accessibility Creates Market Opportunities, Not Limitations

Left to right: Steve Ewell and Peter Kaldes

Peter Kaldes, CEO of Next50 Foundation, delivered a message that should change how every product designer thinks about their addressable market: “Guess what? You still have a point of view over 50. You still have buying power at 60. You can still use your iPhone at 70, and you need really great technology in the 80s and your 90s.”

Most product designers are under 35. Most assume older adults are technology Luddites. The data proves this assumption is completely wrong.

The buying power is enormous

The over-50 population has more buying power than younger generations. Yet, healthtech companies consistently ignore this market or, worse, design products that stigmatize older users. Peter’s frustration was that was crystal-clear:

“I’ve had conversations with some companies like, where are we going to find [older users to test with]? Well, why don’t you try, first of all, start with your company, and second of all, why don’t you start partnering with community organizations that have access to all these people. This is not hard. It’s just getting people out of their comfort zone.” – Peter Kaldes

Dual generational use is smart design

Peter loves technologies that serve multiple generations. If it’s good for older adults, it’s good for everyone. Examples he highlighted:

  • Hearing technology embedded in glasses to reduce stigma around hearing aids
  • AI tools that coordinate healthcare appointments along with transportation and nearby housing options
  • Financial fraud protection that helps older adults without treating them like children
Left to right: Meg Barron, Dominic King and Myechia Minter-Jordan

AARP CEO Myechia Minter-Jordan shared specific examples of products in AARP’s booth that reduce stigma:

  • Sneakers designed to prevent falls that look like regular athletic shoes (they appear to have laces, though velcro is involved)
  • Glasses with closed captions for people with hearing impairments
  • Glasses with hearing aids built into the stems (partnered with Sadika)

“We want to ensure tools don’t further stigmatize us but allow us to live with dignity and age well.” – Myechia Minter-Jordan

The accessibility-to-mainstream pipeline

Left to right: Natalie Zundel, Griffen Stapp, Ryan Easterly and Jack Walters

Griffen Stapp from Ability Central pointed out something product teams consistently miss: Products designed FOR the disability community often get adopted by everyone. But products made for the general population rarely get adapted later.

Examples are everywhere. Curb cuts help wheelchair users, but they also help parents with strollers, delivery workers with hand trucks, and travelers with rolling luggage. Closed captioning helps deaf users, but also people watching videos in noisy environments or practicing language skills.

Build accessibility in from day one, or you’re leaving both impact and revenue on the table.

Adaptable frameworks beat one-size-fits-all

Jack Walters, co-founder of HapWare (winner of the CTA Foundation Innovation Challenge), explained their approach: “Not everyone’s going to have similar care or similar treatments, so you need to be able to adapt to all those different types of needs and necessities in the community.”

They involve the disability community in design from the start, knowing common pain points and anticipating when certain issues might come up. That’s how you build solutions that actually solve problems instead of creating new friction.

Continuous Monitoring Changes Patient Behavior (Without Doctor Visits)

Left to right: Ami Bhatt, Tom Hale, Lucienne Ide and Jack Leach

Tom Hale, CEO of Oura, explained why continuous data matters more than episodic measurements: “Normal isn’t 98.6 degrees. Normal is what’s normal for you, and being able to see that deviation from the baseline allows us to make predictions.”

Oura’s “symptom radar” looks at temperature, heart rate, and other biometrics to predict when you might be getting sick—days before symptoms appear. That’s the intervention window where you can actually change behavior and potentially avoid getting sick entirely.

Patients change behavior when they see their own data

Jake Leach from Dexcom shared a pivotal study from the early days of continuous glucose monitoring. For years, the standard of care for diabetes was finger pricks, which are episodic, painful, and limited.

They ran a study where they put sensors on patients continuously measuring glucose, but they didn’t show patients the data for a week. They just collected baseline information. Then they turned on the display.

Within a day, people started making behavior changes based solely on their own knowledge of their disease and this information they’d never had before. No doctor intervention. No coaching. Just visibility into their own patterns.

The infrastructure problem doctors face

Source: Somebody Digital

Doctors are drowning in data with no infrastructure to process it.

Lucienne Ide from Rimidi left clinical medicine because she was disappointed by how electronic health records (EHRs) were implemented. She expected digital records with clinical decision support layered on top. Instead, she got data dumps with no insights.

As she put it: “I don’t know a single doctor who’s saying, ‘If only I had more data, I would be a better clinician.'”

What doctors need is not more data, but clinical decision support that turns data into actionable insights.

Tom from Oura said one doctor told him: “I want the Oura ring to give me information as if it was written by another doctor. Basically, a consult. Here’s what I know about this patient in clinical terms, and this is the information you need. Everything else, don’t give it to me.”

That’s the responsibility of device companies: Don’t just collect data. Provide insights that save clinicians time and help them make better decisions faster.

Prevention requires behavior change at scale

The consensus was clear: behavior change is what moves the needle on long-term health outcomes. Not medications or procedures. Sleep well, eat well, manage stress, and stay balanced.

Healthcare has failed at behavior change for 75 years because it requires data, user experience (UX), engagement, education, and reinforcement. Doctors don’t have time for that level of ongoing support. Educational content alone doesn’t work because people don’t retain or apply it without reinforcement.

But continuous monitoring combined with AI and smartphone engagement is the combination that finally makes prevention scalable.

As Ami Bhatt from the American College of Cardiology noted, “What has my attention besides my kids? My phone. And I’m looking at that, and that’s the power.”

AI That Actually Helps, Not Hypes

Source: Oxio Health

Dominic King from Microsoft AI cut through all the conference noise:

“The biggest challenge in healthcare today is the mismatch between global demand and constrained supply.” – Dominic King

AI isn’t replacing doctors. It’s closing the gap between what people need and what the healthcare system can deliver.

The future is proactive health companions

Chatbot woman and robot conversation

5 years ago, AI was good at classification and spotting single problems. Now we have thinking and reasoning models that can pass the same exams physicians take, often at higher rates than human test-takers.

Dominic’s vision for 5 years from now is “A health companion that you wake up and it’s sitting in the background, doing the hard work for you and being more proactive. At the moment, everything is still very reactive.”

This means:

  • Identifying sleep issues before they compound
  • Flagging medication adherence problems
  • Coordinating complex care across multiple providers
  • Helping people navigate fragmented healthcare systems
  • Providing specialized opinions even in rural areas

The caregiver opportunity is massive

Myechia shared that one in four Americans are caregivers right now (63 million Americans). If you’re not currently a caregiver or need care yourself, one day you will be.

AI tools can help caregivers:

  • Communicate with provider teams more effectively
  • Ensure loved ones are safe at home
  • Coordinate the “universe of appointments” that comes with aging
  • Reduce information asymmetry (where only people with medical training understand how systems work)

The key is addressing privacy and data concerns upfront, not as barriers to innovation but as facilitators of trust.

The co-design imperative

Dominic emphasized that co-design is critically important. Building WITH users instead of just FOR them avoids the problems we see when products hit the real world.

At Microsoft, they’re seeing 50 to 60 million health questions a day through Copilot. That’s enormous insight into what people actually need help with.

But as he noted, “A lot of founders are young. They don’t have a good idea of what it’s like to be elderly or sick.”

That’s why bringing your end users (patients, clinicians, caregivers) into the development process isn’t optional. It’s the difference between building something that works versus something that sits unused.

The Digital Equity Gap Nobody’s Solving

Left to right: Steve Ewell and Peter Kaldes

Steve Ewell, Executive Director of CTA Foundation, laid out what he calls “the three legs of the stool” for digital equity:

“You need the hardware, you need the broadband access, and then you need the support and education to go along with it. And so often that last one is left off.” – Steve Ewell

That last leg of support and education is where healthcare technology adoption actually lives or dies.

Tech alone isn’t enough

Peter Kaldes from Next50 Foundation added context that should worry anyone in healthtech: nonprofits doing the heavy lifting of digital equity training are facing unprecedented cuts to federal grants.

As Peter noted: “I love going to an Apple Store and seeing these free classes, but you have to find an Apple Store which are not in the neighborhoods that need the help the most.”

The communities that need technology training the most are the least likely to have access to it. And the organizations that bridge that gap are losing funding.

The clinical trial proof

Source: Anatomy.app

Dexcom is running large clinical trials where half the participants come from underserved communities specifically to prove the technology works equally well regardless of service level. They want hard data showing these tools aren’t just for people with resources.

Rimidi partnered with community health centers during COVID to monitor high-risk pregnancies remotely using blood pressure monitors and texting protocols. They tracked engagement by ethnicity and primary language.

There was no difference in engagement. Everyone has a smartphone in that demographic (women of childbearing age), and everyone can text.

This proves that engagement isn’t the problem. The problem is getting access to the infrastructure and training on how to use it.

Mission-aligned capital as the solution

Source: Next50 Foundation

Next50 Foundation is one of the first private foundations to invest 100% of their endowment in aging-focused companies and infrastructure. Not just grant-making, but the other 95% of their capital.

They created an aging investment framework with JP Morgan that looks at four themes:

  1. Health
  2. Social connectivity (including technology)
  3. Economic opportunity (workforce and financial vehicles for longer lives)
  4. Built environment (mobility, housing, accessibility)

As of December, about 75% of their endowment was invested in this framework, and Peter offered a challenge to the investment community:

“What if capital actually had values? Climate investors have successfully made money and helped power cleaner energy. The same can be true for aging. How can we possibly ignore that the globe is aging?” – Peter Kaldes

They also launched a new nonprofit called Leverage focused on advancing policies in Colorado to make aging more affordable—housing, living wages, caregiving resources.

Because you can’t solve systemic problems with technology alone. You need policy change too.

Patient Voices Need to Drive Startup Decisions

Jake Heller from Citizen Health is building AI tools that help patients with rare diseases query their own medical records and advocate for themselves at doctor’s appointments.

His philosophy: “Putting patients in the driver’s seat is one of the biggest opportunities we have right now.”

The journaling and documentation problem

Doctor and patient POCs

Sometimes when people with rare or complex diseases go to appointments and talk about their concerns, doctors don’t believe them. These patients need help translating their own experience in a way that clinicians will take seriously.

Citizen Health helps patients journal their symptoms and experiences, then presents that data in clinical terms. “Here’s a video of my daughter having this specific type of seizure. Here are the journal entries. Here’s how this has changed over time.”

That’s advocacy powered by data and AI.

The time-to-diagnosis crisis

Randy pointed out that if you have an autoimmune disease, it could be 3, 5, or even 7 years before diagnosis. For healthcare innovation, it can take 7 years just to move something through an FDA process.

Those time frames compound into suffering that’s completely preventable if we had better systems and patient input earlier in development cycles.

Patient organizations are ready to help. They’re trusted by their communities. They can broker relationships, speed recruitment, help startups get from lab to market faster with products that patients will actually use and that payers will actually reimburse.

The startup trap to avoid

Source: National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)

Alice warned about companies that design products, then go looking for users to validate decisions they already made.

That’s backwards. Instead you should:

  • Find patient voices early.
  • Put them on advisory boards.
  • Include them in design sprints.
  • Listen to their feedback even when it’s uncomfortable or expensive to implement.

The successful companies in her portfolio think about long-term systemic change, not just short-term product development metrics.

What Healthtech Companies Need to Do Differently

The patient community isn’t a barrier to innovation. They’re the key to building products that actually work.

Stop designing in the dark

Source: Patient Better

If you’re building healthtech without continuous patient input, you’re wasting resources. You’ll miss market opportunities. You’ll build products that don’t get used or that put certain populations at risk.

Randy’s message was clear: “Come to us, and we will broker that relationship, because in the end, you’ll be more successful, and the patient community will get a better result.”

Measure what matters

Myechia challenged the AI industry on how they measure success: Don’t count the number of tools or features. Measure whether you’re closing the gap between lifespan and health span.

That gap is currently 13 years, which is the difference between how long people live and how many of those years are healthy years. If your technology doesn’t move that number, what’s the point?

Think systemically, not just tactically

Source: IQ Eye

Every speaker emphasized that technology is only one piece of a larger puzzle. You also need:

  • Policy changes that support adoption
  • Payment models that reward prevention
  • Training infrastructure for underserved communities
  • Clinical decision support that turns data into insights
  • Algorithms that account for biological differences across populations

If you’re only focused on your device or platform, you’re missing the bigger picture of how healthcare actually works.

The sales enablement angle

All of these insights about patient needs, accessibility requirements, women’s health gaps, digital equity challenges are the stories your prospects need to hear during long sales cycles.

B2B healthtech sales aren’t quick. You’re selling to health systems, payers, and large provider networks. The buying committees are complex. The evaluation periods stretch for months.

That’s exactly when prospects go cold or arrive at sales calls unprepared.

Daree headshot R side arms folded

I create educational email courses to bridge that gap. They keep prospects engaged with the exact kind of patient-centered insights I heard at CES. They position your company as one that understands real-world healthcare challenges, not just technology features.

In 2026 and beyond, healthtech companies that want to win understand their users deeply enough to build products those users will actually want, trust, and use.

The Measurement Challenge

A woman helping her elderly mother in a wheelchair

How do you know if you’re succeeding at patient-centered design? Myechia offered a simple test: “What do you want your life to look like at 75?”

You probably want to:

  • Stay in your home
  • Feel healthy
  • Stay empowered
  • Have information flow easily between you and loved ones
  • Remain connected to family and physicians
  • Be safe at home
  • Engage in daily activities with ease and without pain
  • Understand your medical information and chronic diseases
  • Control who has access to your data
  • Have a care plan you can execute yourself
  • Receive information you trust and can use readily

If your tech helps people achieve any of those goals, you’re on the right track. If it doesn’t, you need to rethink your approach.

Final Thoughts

CES 2026’s Digital Health Summit covered the hard work of actually listening to patients, caregivers, and the communities being served.

Startups who want to be successful in healthtech aren’t the ones chasing the next funding round or the flashiest AI feature. They’re the ones asking better questions:

  • Have we talked to patients who look different from our team?
  • Does our product work for women’s bodies, not just male bodies?
  • Can older adults use this without feeling stigmatized?
  • What infrastructure needs to exist beyond our technology?
  • Are we solving a real problem or just building something technically impressive?

Those questions lead to products that get adopted, outcomes that improve, and companies that actually make a difference. That’s the kind of healthtech worth building.

Enhancing Research with Wearables in Clinical Trials

Enhancing Research with Wearables in Clinical Trials

by Ree AI Health Tech Med Tech

As clinical trials grow in number and complexity, wearables are becoming essential. They allow for remote patient monitoring (RPM) and can track multiple health metrics at once. This is crucial as the number of trial endpoints has increased by 10% in the last ten years. Let’s explore how using wearables in clinical trials helps accelerate medical research.

Contents

Wearables in Medical Research

What are wearables?

Wearables are small, smart devices like sensors that, combined with apps, collect health data. These devices can track everything from your heart rate to how well you sleep. They’re like having a mini-lab on your wrist or body. 

Wearables in clinical trials refers to all types of medical tech used in medical research.

Types of wearable devices used in clinical trials

Black woman gold top showing phone with glucose meter on arm

There’s a whole range of wearables being used in medical research:

The popularity of wearables in research

Wearables are taking the medical research world by storm. The use of wearables in clinical trials has grown by 50% from 2015 to 2020 (Marra et al., 2020). 

Wearable devices make collecting health data easier for medical researchers. They allow for real-time analysis of large data sets and help identify health trends, which brings ease and precision to clinical trials and medical studies.

Benefits of Using Wearables in Clinical Trials

Why are researchers so excited about wearables? Let’s break it down.

Real-time data collection and monitoring

Monitoring dashboard on a desk

Imagine getting a constant stream of health data from patients, 24/7. Wearables allow clinicians to monitor real-time data, so there’s no more waiting for patients to come in for check-ups or relying on their memory of symptoms.

Improved patient engagement and compliance

People are more likely to stick with a study when they’re using familiar devices. RPM systems often include medication reminders and tracking features, which can significantly improve adherence rates. 

Enhanced accuracy and objectivity of data

Wearables don’t forget or exaggerate. They provide hard data without human error or bias. Combining wearable sensors and advanced software in clinical trials is one of the best ways to make sure the data is accurate (Seitz, 2023).

Cost-effectiveness and efficiency in trial conduct

Wearable tech in healthcare shows promise for better data collection and analysis-–it can improve disease understanding, treatments, and clinical trials (Izmailova et al., 2018). 

By reducing the need for in-person visits and automating data collection, wearables can cut trial costs by up to 60% (Coravos et al., 2019).

How Wearables Are Used in Clinical Trials

How are wearables being used in real studies? Let’s look at some examples.

Continuous vital sign monitoring

Wearables can track heart rate, blood pressure, and even oxygen levels around the clock. This is especially useful in studies of heart conditions or respiratory diseases.

Activity and sleep tracking

Older woman asleep wearing smartwatch next to cell phone

These devices can measure how much you move and how well you sleep. This data is valuable for studies on conditions like insomnia or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Medication adherence tracking

Timed pill box

Some smart pill bottles can remind patients to take their medication and record when they do. This helps clinicians know if patients are following the treatment plan.

Remote patient monitoring and telemedicine integration

Wearables allow doctors to check on patients from afar. This is particularly helpful for patients who live far from research centers or have mobility issues.

In a study of patients with Parkinson’s disease, wearable sensors were used to track movement patterns. This allowed researchers to measure the effectiveness of a new treatment more accurately than traditional methods (Espay et al., 2016).

Challenges and Limitations of Wearables in Clinical Trials

While wearables offer many benefits, they also come with some challenges.

Data privacy and security concerns

Hacker in a red hoodie

With so much personal health data being collected, keeping it safe is a top priority. Researchers need to ensure that patient information is protected from hackers and unauthorized access.

Regulatory hurdles and FDA approval processes

Getting new devices approved for use in clinical trials can be a long and complex process. The FDA has strict rules about what devices can be used and how data can be collected.

Integration with existing clinical trial systems

Many research centers have established systems for collecting and analyzing data. Integrating wearable data into these systems can be tricky and time-consuming, but can be overcome.

Potential for data overload and interpretation issues

Wearables can generate massive amounts of data. Sorting through all this information and making sense of it can be overwhelming for researchers.

One study found that while 79% of clinical trials were interested in using wearables, only 39% felt confident in their ability to manage and analyze the data effectively (Walton et al., 2015).

Best Practices to Incorporate Wearables in Clinical Trials

To make the most of wearables in clinical trials, researchers should follow these best practices.

Monitor attached to back of a woman's left shoulder

Select appropriate wearable devices for specific trial needs

Not all wearables are created equal. Researchers must choose devices that are scientifically relevant to the study’s endpoints and can gather precise, valid data. 

The goal is to collect meaningful information that significantly contributes to the study’s outcomes and conclusions, rather than just monitoring for the sake of it (Rudo & Dekie, 2024). For example, a sleep study might need a device with advanced sleep-tracking capabilities.

Ensure data quality and validation

It’s crucial to verify that the data collected by wearables is accurate and reliable. This often involves comparing wearable data with data from traditional medical devices.

Train participants and researchers on proper device use

Both patients and research staff need to know how to use the wearables correctly. Good training can improve data quality and reduce errors.

Develop robust data management and analysis protocols

With so much data coming in, having a solid plan for managing and analyzing it is essential. This may involve using specialized software or working with data scientists.

Steinhubl et al. (2018) researched how heart failure patients used wearable sensors to track daily activity. By carefully selecting devices and training participants, the researchers collected high-quality data leading to new insights about the progression of heart failure.

What’s next for wearables in clinical trials? Let’s take a peek.

Smart watch illustration in blue and red

AI and machine learning integration for data analysis

As the amount of data grows, artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) will play a bigger role in making sense of it all. AI can help spot patterns and trends that humans might miss.

Multi-modal sensors

Multi-modal sensors in wearables combine different types of sensors in one device to give a more complete picture of a patient’s health (Sietz, 2023). It can include body sensors, environmental sensors, and even imaging tech to gather a wide range of data for clinical studies.

Expanded use of wearables in decentralized clinical trials

More trials are moving away from traditional research centers. Wearables make it possible to conduct studies with patients in their own homes, opening up research to a wider group of people.

Potential for personalized medicine and treatment optimization

By collecting detailed, individual health data, wearables help tailor treatments to each patient’s unique needs.

Conclusion

Wearables are becoming an integral part of clinical trials, offering new insights into patient health and treatment efficacy. These smart devices are likely to greatly impact medical research, leading to faster, more efficient, and patient-centric clinical trials. Who knows–the next big medical breakthrough might come from a small device you can wear.

References

Coravos, A., Khozin, S., & Mandl, K. D. (2019). Developing and adopting safe and effective digital biomarkers to improve patient outcomes. NPJ digital medicine, 2(1), 1-5.

Espay, A. J., Bonato, P., Nahab, F. B., Maetzler, W., Dean, J. M., Klucken, J., … & Papapetropoulos, S. (2016). Technology in Parkinson’s disease: Challenges and opportunities. Movement Disorders, 31(9), 1272-1282.

Izmailova, E. S., Wagner, J. A., & Perakslis, E. D. (2018). Wearable Devices in Clinical Trials: Hype and Hypothesis. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 104(1), 42-52.

Marra, C., Chen, J. L., Coravos, A., & Stern, A. D. (2020). Quantifying the use of connected digital products in clinical research. NPJ digital medicine, 3(1), 50.

Seitz, S. (2023). Wearable sensors have already enhanced clinical trials and their impact in this market is only going to grow as technology advances. Find out what clinical trial applications and opportunities exist for your innovative wearable technology company. Sequenex. Retrieved from https://sequenex.com/blog/enhancing-clinical-trials-with-wearable-sensors-and-software-solutions/

Steinhubl, S. R., Waalen, J., Edwards, A. M., Ariniello, L. M., Mehta, R. R., Ebner, G. S., … & Topol, E. J. (2018). Effect of a home-based wearable continuous ECG monitoring patch on detection of undiagnosed atrial fibrillation: the mSToPS randomized clinical trial. Jama, 320(2), 146-155.

Todd Rudo, T., & Dekie, L. (2024). The Future Fit of Wearables for Patient-Centric Clinical Trials. Applied Clinical Trials, 33(4).

Walton, M. K., Powers, J. H., Hobart, J., Patrick, D., Marquis, P., Vamvakas, S., … & Burke, L. B. (2015). Clinical outcome assessments: conceptual foundation—report of the ISPOR Clinical Outcomes Assessment–Emerging Good Practices for Outcomes Research Task Force. Value in Health, 18(6), 741-752.

Wearable Technology Clinical Trials: All You Need To Know About 5 Wearable Devices And Wearable Sensors. Learning Labb Research Institute. (n.d.) Retrieved from https://llri.in/wearable-technology-clinical-trials/

Williams, K. (2023). The Future of Clinical Trials: Embracing Wearables and Beyond. Datacubed Health. Retrieved from https://www.datacubed.com/the-future-of-clinical-trials-embracing-wearables-and-beyond-2/

How to Choose the Best Remote Patient Monitoring Devices 

How to Choose the Best Remote Patient Monitoring Devices 

by Ree AI Health Tech Med Tech

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) has become a cornerstone of modern healthcare, as the global RPM systems market is projected to be worth over $1.7 billion by 2027. As healthcare providers and patients navigate this growing market, it’s crucial to choose the best remote patient monitoring devices.

This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting RPM devices, so you can make informed decisions that benefit patients and healthcare teams.

Contents

RPM Basics

The basics of RPM describes the:

  • Definition of remote patient monitoring

  • Benefits for patients and healthcare providers

  • Types of health conditions suitable for RPM

Comparing Different RPM Device Types

RPM devices come in various forms, each with its own strengths and limitations. Let’s explore the main types.

Wearable devices

Elderly hands on smartwatch

Wearable devices like smartwatches and patches offer continuous monitoring with minimal disruption to the patient’s daily life. They’re useful for tracking metrics like heart rate, activity levels, and sleep patterns.

Example: Some smartwatches can monitor blood oxygen levels, a feature especially useful for patients with respiratory conditions.

Home-based monitoring systems

These devices are designed for periodic measurements at home. They’re typically used for monitoring vital signs like blood pressure, weight, and blood glucose levels.

For instance, smart scales measure weight and body composition, and some can even detect subtle changes that might indicate fluid retention—a potential sign of heart failure.

Implantable devices

implantable cardioverter-defibrillator

For certain conditions, implantable devices offer the most comprehensive and continuous monitoring. These are typically used for serious cardiac conditions.

Modern implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) can monitor heart rhythm continuously and transmit data to healthcare providers, allowing for early detection of potentially life-threatening arrhythmias (Sahu et al., 2023).

Assessing Patient Needs and Preferences

Choosing the right RPM device isn’t just about the technology—it’s about finding a solution that fits the patient’s lifestyle and capabilities.

Consider the patient’s age and tech-savviness

Older man with white hair using tablet

Not all patients are equally comfortable with technology. When selecting an RPM device, consider the patient’s familiarity with digital devices.

For older adults or those less comfortable with technology, look for devices with simple, straightforward interfaces. Some blood pressure monitors, for instance, require just a single button press to take a reading and automatically sync data to a smartphone app.

Evaluate mobility and dexterity requirements

Some patients may have physical limitations that make certain devices harder to use. Consider devices that are easy to handle and don’t require complex movements.

For example, wrist-worn blood pressure monitors can be easier for patients with arthritis to use compared to traditional upper arm cuffs.

Address privacy and security concerns

Many patients are concerned about the privacy and security of their health data. Look for devices and systems that prioritize data protection.

Ensure that the RPM system you choose complies with HIPAA regulations and uses strong encryption methods to protect patient data during transmission and storage.

Key Features to Look for in RPM Devices

When evaluating RPM devices, it’s crucial to focus on several key features that can make or break your experience. 

Data accuracy and reliability

Black woman gold top showing phone with glucose meter on arm

The cornerstone of any effective RPM system is its ability to provide accurate and reliable data. After all, what good is a monitoring device if you can’t trust the information it provides?

Look for devices that have been clinically validated and FDA-approved. These certifications ensure that the device has undergone rigorous testing and meets high standards for accuracy. 

Example: The Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitor has been shown to have a mean absolute relative difference (MARD) of 8.2%, indicating high accuracy in measuring blood glucose levels.

Ease of use for patients

The success of an RPM program depends in part on patient adherence. If a device is too complicated or cumbersome to use, patients are less likely to use it.

Consider devices with intuitive interfaces and clear instructions. For instance, some blood pressure monitors feature large, easy-to-read displays and one-touch operation, making them ideal for older adults or those with limited dexterity.

Battery life and power options

Nothing’s more frustrating than a device that constantly needs charging or battery replacement. Look for devices with long battery life or convenient charging options.

Some wearable devices, like certain fitness trackers, can last up to a week on a single charge. Others, like certain blood glucose monitors, use replaceable batteries that can last for months.

Connectivity options (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular)

WiFi signal over city buildings

Consider how the RPM device transmits data. Different connectivity options offer various benefits:

  • Bluetooth: Ideal for short-range communication with smartphones or tablets.

  • Wi-Fi: Allows for direct data transmission to the cloud when in range of a network.

  • Cellular: Offers the most flexibility, allowing data transmission from anywhere with cellular coverage.

For example, some modern pacemakers can transmit data via cellular networks, allowing for continuous monitoring without the need for a separate transmitter.

Compatibility with Existing Healthcare Systems

RPM systems should fit into existing workflows seamlessly. Here’s what to look for.

Integration with electronic health records (EHR)

worker looking at 3 monitors on desk

An RPM system that integrates with your EHR can streamline data management and improve efficiency. Look for systems that offer API integration or direct data transfer to your EHR system.

For instance, some RPM platforms can automatically populate patient data into EHR systems like Epic or Cerner, saving time and reducing the risk of data entry errors.

Data transmission and storage capabilities

Consider how the RPM system handles data transmission and storage. Look for systems that offer:

  • Real-time data transmission

  • Secure cloud storage

  • Custom alerts based on patient data

Some advanced RPM systems use AI algorithms to analyze patient data and predict potential health issues before they become serious.

Compliance with HIPAA and other regulations

Ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations is non-negotiable. Choose RPM systems that are designed with HIPAA compliance in mind.

Look for features like:

  • End-to-end encryption

  • Secure user authentication

  • Audit trails for data access

Remember, HIPAA compliance isn’t just about the technology—it also involves proper training and protocols for staff using the RPM system.

Evaluating Cost and Insurance Coverage

While the benefits of RPM are clear, cost considerations are important for both healthcare providers and patients. 

Initial device costs

The upfront cost of RPM devices can vary widely. Simple devices like blood pressure monitors may cost less than $100, while more advanced systems can run thousands of dollars.

Consider the long-term value rather than just the initial cost. A more expensive device that offers better accuracy and reliability could be more cost-effective in the long run.

Subscriptions and service fees

Calculator

Many RPM systems involve ongoing fees for data storage, analysis, and support. These costs can add up over time, so it’s important to factor them into your decision.

Some providers offer all-inclusive packages that cover the device, data transmission, and analysis for a fixed monthly fee. This can make budgeting more predictable.

Reimbursement options and insurance coverage

The good news is that many insurance plans cover RPM services, including Medicare. However, coverage can vary depending on the specific device and condition being monitored.

Medicare reimburses for RPM services under CPT codes 99453, 99454, 99457, and 99458. Use these codes to cover device setup, data transmission, and time spent on RPM-related care for your Medicare patients.

Assessing Vendor Support and Reliability

The relationship with your RPM vendor doesn’t end when you purchase the system. Ongoing support is crucial for the success of your RPM program. Here’s what to look for.

Customer service and technical support

Customer service reps

Look for vendors that offer comprehensive support, including:

  • 24/7 technical assistance

  • Multiple support channels (phone, email, chat)

  • Resources for patient education

Some vendors even offer dedicated account managers to help healthcare providers optimize their RPM programs.

Device maintenance and updates

RPM technology is constantly evolving. Choose a vendor that provides regular software updates and has a clear process for hardware maintenance or replacement.

For example, some vendors offer automatic over-the-air updates for their devices, ensuring they’re always running the latest software.

Training for healthcare providers and patients

Demo of a CPR mask

The success of an RPM program often hinges on proper training. Look for vendors that offer comprehensive training programs for both healthcare providers and patients.

This may include:

  • In-person or virtual training sessions

  • Online resources and tutorials

  • Ongoing education about new features or best practices

Some vendors even offer patient onboarding services to help get your RPM program up and running smoothly.

Conclusion

Choosing the right RPM system or device involves careful consideration of various factors, from technical specifications to patient needs and regulatory compliance. By focusing on these key areas, you can select an RPM solution that enhances patient care, improves outcomes, and integrates seamlessly with your existing healthcare routine.

The goal is to find devices that monitor health effectively and integrate seamlessly into patients’ lives and your healthcare workflows. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate your options, and don’t hesitate to ask vendors for demonstrations or trial periods before making a decision.

With the right RPM system in place, you can provide more personalized care to your patients, no matter where they are. Stay informed about the latest options so you can make the best choices for your patients and practice. 

References

A Comprehensive Guide to Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM). (2023). Prevounce. Retrieved from https://www.prevounce.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-remote-patient-monitoring

Krupa, A. Senior monitoring systems: How to find the option that’s best for your loved one. Care. Retrieved from https://www.care.com/c/remote-monitoring-for-seniors/

Sahu, P., Acharya, S., & Totade, M. (2023). Evolution of Pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) in Cardiology. Cureus, 15(10). doi.org/10.7759/cureus.46389

The technology, devices, and benefits of remote patient monitoring in the healthcare industry. (2023). Emarketer. Retrieved from

https://www.emarketer.com/insights/remote-patient-monitoring-industry-explained

Remote Monitoring for Seniors: Ensuring Safety and Independence

Remote Monitoring for Seniors: Ensuring Safety and Independence

by Ree AI Health Tech Med Tech

As our population ages, ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors living independently has never been greater. A study by AARP shows that 77% of older adults want to age in place, making remote monitoring technologies more relevant than ever. Remote monitoring for seniors is a powerful tool that can help older adults age in place safely, and give their families and caregivers peace of mind. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits and available technologies for remote monitoring for seniors, and how to implement these systems effectively.

Contents

Understanding Remote Monitoring for Seniors

Remote monitoring for seniors refers to the use of technology to track an older adult’s health, safety, and well-being from a distance. These systems allow caregivers and healthcare providers to keep an eye on seniors without being physically present, enabling quick responses to emergencies and early detection of potential health issues.

Monitoring dashboard on a desk

What are the types of remote monitoring systems?

There are several types of remote monitoring systems available for seniors:

  • Wearable devices
  • Smart home sensors

  • Video monitoring systems

  • Health tracking devices

  • Personal emergency response systems (PERS)

Each type of system serves different purposes and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of individual seniors.

Key components of an effective remote monitoring setup

An effective remote monitoring setup typically includes:

  1. Sensors or devices to collect data

  2. A central hub or gateway to process and transmit information

  3. A user interface for caregivers to access and interpret data

  4. Alert systems for emergencies or anomalies

  5. Secure data storage and transmission protocols

These components work together to create a comprehensive monitoring solution that can adapt to various care scenarios.

Benefits of Remote Senior Monitoring

Remote monitoring offers numerous advantages for both seniors and their caregivers. Let’s examine some of the key benefits.

Enhanced safety and quick emergency response

ER and urgent care entrance

One of the primary benefits of remote monitoring is improved safety for seniors. These systems can detect falls, unusual inactivity, or other emergencies and automatically alert caregivers or emergency services. 

Researchers in the UAE and the U.K. ran a study where they created a system to detect falls, and to monitor seniors and people with disabilities. The non-intrusive system uses Wi-Fi signals and AI to analyze movement patterns without cameras or wearable devices. Overall, this technology offers a promising way to improve safety and care for vulnerable populations using everyday Wi-Fi signals and smart AI analysis (Al Rajab et al., 2023).

Increased independence for seniors

Remote monitoring allows seniors to maintain their independence while still receiving necessary support. By providing a safety net, these systems give older adults the confidence to continue living in their own homes.

Reduced caregiver stress 

Older man talking to doctor on tablet - Tima Miroshnichenko
Source: Tima Miroshnichenko

For family caregivers, remote monitoring, including mobile health apps, can significantly reduce stress and anxiety (Fuller-Tyszkiewicz et al., 2020). Knowing that they can check on their loved one’s well-being at any time provides invaluable peace of mind

Cost-effectiveness compared to in-person care

Remote monitoring can be a cost-effective alternative to full-time in-person care or assisted living facilities. While initial setup costs may be significant, the long-term savings can be substantial. 

According to a report by Grand View Research, the global remote patient monitoring market is expected to reach $117.1 billion by 2025, driven in part by its cost-effectiveness. It’s expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.6% from 2024 to 2030.

Top Remote Monitoring Technologies for Seniors

Let’s explore some of the most popular and effective remote monitoring technologies available for seniors.

Wearable devices and personal emergency response systems (PERS)

Monitor attached to back of a woman's left shoulder

Wearable devices, such as smartwatches or pendants, can track vital signs, detect falls, and allow seniors to call for help with the push of a button. These devices are often waterproof and can be worn 24/7 for continuous protection.

Example: The Apple Watch Series includes fall detection and an ECG app, making it a popular choice for tech-savvy seniors.

Smart home sensors and environmental monitoring

Home video monitoring app

Smart home sensors can be placed throughout a senior’s living space to monitor movement, temperature, and other environmental factors. These sensors can detect unusual patterns that may indicate a problem.

Example: Caregiver Smart Solutions offers a system of small sensors that can be placed around the home to track daily habits and alert caregivers to changes in routine.

Video monitoring and two-way communication systems

Video monitoring systems allow caregivers to visually check in on seniors and communicate with them face-to-face. These systems are especially important for seniors with mobility issues or those who live far from family members.

Example: The GrandCare Systems platform includes video chat capabilities along with other monitoring features.

Health tracking devices and telemedicine integration

Health tracking devices can monitor vital signs, medication adherence, and other health metrics. Many of these devices integrate with telemedicine platforms, allowing healthcare providers to remotely assess a senior’s condition.

Example: The Livongo (by Teladoc Health) remote monitoring system includes a blood glucose meter and blood pressure monitor that automatically shares data with healthcare providers.

Health tracking for seniors in nursing homes

Doctor shows table to senior in blue shirt

A study published in Fusion introduced a new way to predict personal health for older people in nursing care using a model to estimate health conditions without needing special sensors. The method looks at actions in each area and combines information from different sources to make better predictions. It also uses machine learning and other smart techniques to process and combine data. 

This model works better than existing systems for tracking health without extra sensors. It could be used with wearable devices in the future to improve health monitoring for seniors (Mahmood et al., 2023).

Implementing Remote Monitoring: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re considering implementing a remote monitoring system for a senior loved one, follow these steps:

  1. Assess individual needs and preferences.

  2. Choose the right technology for your situation.

  3. Set up the system and ensure proper connectivity.

  4. Train seniors and caregivers on system use.

Assess individual needs and preferences

Gentleman taking his blood pressure in white shirt

Start by evaluating the senior’s specific health concerns, living situation, and personal preferences. Consider factors such as:

  • Mobility level

  • Cognitive function

  • Existing health conditions

  • Technology comfort level

  • Privacy concerns

Choose the right technology for your situation

Based on your assessment, research and select the most appropriate monitoring technology. Consider factors like:

  • Ease of use

  • Cost and ongoing fees

  • Integration with existing devices or systems

  • Customer support and reliability

Set up the system and check for proper connectivity

Blueprint and video monitoring equipment

Once you’ve chosen a system, follow these steps for setup:

  1. Install any necessary hardware or sensors.

  2. Set up the central hub or gateway.

  3. Test connectivity and ensure all components are communicating properly.

  4. Configure alert settings and user preferences.

Train seniors and caregivers 

Proper training is crucial for the success of any remote monitoring system. Be sure to:

  • Provide clear, step-by-step instructions for both seniors and caregivers.

  • Offer hands-on practice with the devices or interface.

  • Address any concerns or questions about the system.

  • Schedule follow-up training sessions as needed.

Addressing Privacy and Ethical Concerns

While remote monitoring offers many benefits, it’s essential to address privacy and ethical concerns.

security guard - credit card - shield

Balance safety with personal privacy

Striking the right balance between safety and privacy is crucial. Consider these tips:

  • Involve the senior in decisions about monitoring.

  • Use the least invasive monitoring methods that meet safety needs.

  • Establish clear boundaries for when and how monitoring will be used.

Ensure data security and protection

Protecting sensitive health data is paramount. Look for systems that offer:

  • End-to-end encryption

  • Secure cloud storage

  • Regular security updates

  • Compliance with healthcare privacy regulations (like HIPAA)

Always obtain informed consent from the senior before implementing any monitoring system:

  • Explain the purpose and functionality of the system

  • Discuss potential benefits and risks

  • Address any concerns or questions

  • Respect the senior’s right to refuse or limit monitoring

The field of remote senior monitoring is rapidly evolving. 

AI and predictive analytics

AI-powered systems can analyze data from multiple sources to predict potential health issues before they become serious. For example, researchers at the University of Missouri developed a system that uses AI to detect early signs of illness in seniors based on changes in their daily routines.

Integration with smart home ecosystems

Smart home app on tablet red gold

As smart home technology becomes more prevalent, remote monitoring systems are getting easier to integrate with these ecosystems. This allows more comprehensive monitoring and easier control of the home environment.

Advancements in non-invasive health monitoring

New technologies allow us to monitor health metrics without the need for wearable devices or invasive procedures. For instance, researchers at MIT developed a wireless device that can monitor sleep patterns and detect abnormalities without any physical contact.

Remote monitoring for seniors is a rapidly growing field that offers significant benefits for both older adults and their caregivers. By enhancing safety, promoting independence, and providing peace of mind, these technologies are helping seniors age in place with dignity and confidence. 

Before you choose a remote monitoring system, remember to carefully assess individual needs, involve your senior family members in the decision-making process, choose appropriate technology, and address privacy concerns. 

With the right approach, remote monitoring can be a valuable tool to support our elderly loved ones with the care they need while respecting their autonomy. 

References

Al-Rajab, M., Al Zraiqat, S., John, K., El Ayoubi, M. B., & Qassem, M. O. (2023). A Contactless Smart WiFi-Based Application Presence or Fall Detection System: Analyzing Channel State Information (CSI) Signals. International Journal of Emerging Multidisciplinaries: Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence; 2(1). doi.org/10.54938/ijemdcsai.2023.02.1.230

Binette, J. & Fanni, F. (2021). 2021 Home and Community Preference Survey: A National Survey of Adults Age 18-Plus. Washington, DC: AARP Research. doi.org/10.26419/res.00479.001

Diabetes made easier at no cost to you. (n.d.). Livongo. Retrieved from https://www.livongo.com/diabetes

Fuller-Tyszkiewicz, M., Richardson, B., Little, K., Teague, S., Hartley-Clark, L., Capic, T., Khor, S., Cummins, R. A., Olsson, C. A., & Hutchinson, D. (2020). Efficacy of a Smartphone App Intervention for Reducing Caregiver Stress: Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Medical Internet Research Mental Health; 7(7). doi.org/10.2196/17541

Grand View Research. (2024). Remote Patient Monitoring Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Vital Sign Monitor, Specialized Monitor), By End-use (Hospital Based Patient, Ambulatory Patient), By Application, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 – 2030. Retrieved from https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/remote-patient-monitoring-devices-market

Ham, B. (2020). Wireless device captures sleep data without using cameras or body sensors. MIT News. Retrieved from https://news.mit.edu/2020/monitoring-sleep-sensors-0911

Herd, R. (2024). Technology Tips for Caregivers: How to Use Monitoring Systems for Peace of Mind. Caregiver Smart Solutions. Retrieved from https://www.caregiversmartsolutions.com/post/technology-tips-for-caregivers-how-to-use-monitoring-systems-for-peace-of-mind

How GrandCare Works. (n.d.). GrandCare Systems. Retrieved from https://www.grandcare.com/how-it-works/

Ianzito, C. (2020). Remote Monitoring Systems Can Give Caregivers Peace of Mind. AARP. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2020/ces-caregiving-products.html

Mahmood, H., Faleh, H., Khalid, R., & Al-Kikani, S. (2023). Physical Activity Monitoring for Older Adults through IoT and Wearable Devices: Leveraging Data Fusion Techniques. Fusion: Practice and Applications; 11(2), pp. 48-61. doi.org/10.54216/FPA.110204

Rice, S. (2016). Sensor Systems Identify Senior Citizens at Risk of Falling Within Three Weeks. University of Missouri. Retrieved from https://www.eldertech.missouri.edu/sensor-systems-identify-senior-citizens-at-risk-of-falling-within-three-weeks/

How to Set Up a Home Health Monitoring Station: The Ultimate Guide

How to Set Up a Home Health Monitoring Station: The Ultimate Guide

by Ree Health Tech Med Tech

Home health monitoring wearables to track blood pressure, heart rate and sleep are popular.  A 2022 AnalyticsIQ study of 8,000 Americans showed that we’ve doubled our use of wearable health devices between 2020 and 2021. Almost half of the respondents used at least one type of wearable tech, and Black, Latinx, male, and Gen X respondents used it the most.

This surge in popularity is no surprise, as home health monitoring empowers people to take control of their well-being from the comfort of their own homes. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of setting up a home health monitoring system. 

Contents

Let’s start with the fundamentals.

Home Health Monitoring Basics

Definition of home health monitoring

Home health monitoring uses technology to track and manage health conditions at home or on the go. 

Home health monitoring systems let you monitor various health metrics and share the data with healthcare providers remotely. It includes connected health devices and apps to collect, analyze, and transmit health data, facilitating continuous health management without frequent in-office visits (Story, 2010).

Source: ScienceDirect.com, Ahmed & Kannan, 2022.

Key benefits of monitoring health at home

Home health monitoring offers numerous advantages:

  • Increased Health Awareness: People become more aware of their health status, making informed decisions about diet, lifestyle, and treatment options.

  • Reduced Physical Consultations: Minimizes the need for in-person visits, which can be beneficial for people with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

  • Real-Time Intervention: Allows for prompt medical interventions based on real-time data, to prevent potential complications.

  • Cost Savings: Reduces healthcare costs by decreasing hospital admissions and emergency room visits.

  • Improved Chronic Disease Management: Enhances the management of chronic conditions through continuous monitoring and timely adjustments to treatment plans.

Trackable health metrics 

Heart illustration for ECG monitor

Home health monitoring can track a wide range of health metrics, including:

  • Vital Signs: Heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.

  • Biometric Data: Blood glucose levels, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), and body composition.

  • Activity Levels: Steps taken, calories burned, and sleep patterns.

  • Symptoms: Tracking symptoms related to chronic conditions or acute illnesses.

Medical and tech devices for home health monitoring

Several technologies and devices are available for home health monitoring (Dusun, 2024):

  • Smart Scales: Measure weight and body composition.

  • Blood Pressure Monitors: Track blood pressure levels.

  • Glucose Meters: Monitor blood glucose levels for diabetes management.

  • Pulse Oximeters: Measure blood oxygen saturation.

  • Wearable Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches: Monitor physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns.

  • ECG Monitors: Record heart rhythms to detect irregularities.

  • Medication Adherence Trackers: Ensure people take medications as prescribed.

Other conditions require more complicated devices that require training from your provider, including:

  • Apnea monitors

  • Heart monitors

  • Special monitors for dementia and Parkinson’s disease

  • Breathing apparatuses

  • Fetal monitors

Let’s review each of the less complex medical devices in turn.

Essential Devices for Home Health Monitoring

Smart scales for weight and body composition

Smart scale with monitor

A study in England showed that smart scale users who weighed themselves often were more likely to lose weight, and weigh themselves after recent weight loss (Sperrin et al., 2016).

Smart scales go beyond measuring weight; they can also analyze body composition, including body fat percentage, muscle mass, and bone density. These scales connect to health apps, allowing users to track their progress over time.

Before measuring your body composition:

  • Don’t drink alcohol for 2 days before measuring.

  • Avoid exercise, coffee, chocolate, or other diuretics (drinks that make you pee a lot) for 12 hours.

     
  • Don’t eat or drink anything for 4 hours before.

  • Don’t measure if you’re sick with a fever or diarrhea.

  • Use the bathroom within 30 minutes of measuring.

How to use a smart scale

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to measure your body composition:

  1. Enter your age, sex, and height into the device.

  2. Stand in the right position to ensure you’re touching the electrodes properly.

  3. If your hands and feet are very dry, use a damp cloth to moisten them.

  4. Stand still during the measurement.

These devices may show body fat as a percentage, but don’t rely on just one measurement. Take three in a row, find the average (add the results, then divide by three), and write it down in a health log or app.

Blood pressure monitors

Woman on couch with Blood pressure monitor at home

Blood pressure monitors are essential for people with hypertension or heart conditions. These devices provide accurate readings of systolic and diastolic blood pressure to manage cardiovascular health.

Before taking your blood pressure:

  • Don’t measure your blood pressure until at least 30 minutes after having tea, coffee, energy drinks, cigarettes, or exercising.

  • Remove tight clothes and use the bathroom. 

How to use a blood pressure monitor

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to take your blood pressure:

  1. Sit in a chair with back support, and legs uncrossed with feet flat on the floor. Rest your arm on a table at heart level.

  2. Put the cuff on their bare arm and start measuring. Don’t move or talk during the measurement.

  3. Take two readings one minute apart, and take the average of them (add the results, then divide by two). For better accuracy, you can do three readings, but it’s optional.

  4. Write down the final number in a health log or app to track any changes. 

Glucose meters for diabetes management

Glucose meter on hand with a blood drop

Glucose meters, or glucometers, are crucial for diabetes management, which helps people  monitor their blood sugar levels regularly. Some advanced models can sync with smartphones and health apps for easy tracking and data sharing with healthcare providers.

How to use a glucose meter

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to measure your blood sugar:

  1. Check if that the test strips have not expired.

  2. Wash and dry your hands.

  3. Take a test strip and close the container. Use a new lancet each time.

  4. Put the lancet in the right spot on the device and set how deep it will prick based on what works for you or how thick your skin is.

  5. After loading the device, prick your ring or middle finger. You might need to gently squeeze your finger for enough blood.


    Once the blood touches the strip, the meter will take a moment to complete the measurement. The result will show up on the device or your phone.

  6. Throw away the used lancet in a special container for sharp objects and the strip in a biohazard bin. You might need to press your finger with cotton to stop bleeding. You can clean the lancet tip with an alcohol wipe. Write down your blood sugar reading right away in a health log.

Pulse oximeters for oxygen saturation levels

Man taking pulse oximeter reading

Pulse oximeters measure the oxygen saturation level in the blood, which is vital for people with respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or COVID-19. These devices are easy to use and provide quick, accurate readings.

Before you take a measurement with a pulse oximeter, remove any nail polish from the finger you’re going to use.

How to use a pulse oximeter

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to measure your oxygen level:

  1. Wash and dry your hands.

  2. Put the device on your finger so it’s not too loose or tight. Don’t use a finger with a tattoo or henna on it.

  3. Make sure your finger covers the lights and sensor properly.

  4. Avoid bright light, which can cause errors. If you can’t, cover the device with a cloth.

  5. Start the device, and keep your finger still during measurement.

Every few days of use, clean the device with an alcohol wipe to ensure accurate readings.

Wearable fitness trackers and smartwatches

Woman in a jacket touching smart watch

Wearable fitness trackers and smartwatches monitor various health metrics, including heart rate, steps taken, calories burned, and sleep patterns. They are popular for their convenience and integration with health and fitness apps.

Note that sometimes, these devices make errors. These errors can happen because the sensors in these devices aren’t perfect at counting or estimating. For example, fitness trackers worn on the wrist may count fewer steps than you actually take if you walk slowly (Hicks et al., 2019).

ECG monitors

Irregular heartbeats, known as heart rate arrhythmia, are a major sign of common heart diseases and can be very dangerous. Because these irregularities can happen suddenly, are hard to notice, and change quickly, it’s important to keep track of heart rate changes in real-time to spot and prevent problems early (Zhang & Yang, 2023).

ECG monitor closeup on stomach

A home electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor can track your heart rate. Note that while wearable ECG monitors can detect heart rhythm issues, but may miss some due to intermittent recording. They’re usually expensive and not covered by insurance. 

Medical-grade monitors are more accurate, using chest sensors for continuous recording. Personal devices use wrist or finger sensors and may require manual activation, making them less reliable for serious conditions (Samaan, 2022).

Before measuring your heartbeat:

  • Move electronic devices, metal, and magnets away from the ECG device.

  • Sit quietly for 5 minutes.

How to use

Mondal & Mondal (2021) recommend the following steps to analyze your heartbeat:

  1. If your hands are dry, use a damp cloth to moisten them.

  2. Follow the instructions to place the electrodes correctly.

  3. Start the device. Don’t move or talk during the measurement.

  4. Have a doctor look at the results afterward.

Medication adherence trackers

Taking your medication as prescribed is a critical part of your overall health and wellness. To help you remember when to take your meds, use one or more medication adherence monitoring technologies like:

While these devices offer real-time data and improve adherence monitoring, they face challenges like accuracy issues and expensive implementation. Most rely on proxy measures like device opening events, limiting data precision, and integration with clinical systems is a challenge. (Mason et al., 2022).

Next, we’ll learn how to pick the right health monitoring device for your specific needs.

Choosing the Right Monitoring Devices

Factors to consider when selecting devices

Purple pulse oximeter and mask

When choosing home health monitoring devices, consider the following factors:

  • Ease of Use: Devices should be user-friendly, especially for those with limited technical skills.

  • Accuracy and Reliability: Look for devices with proven accuracy and reliability, supported by clinical validation.

  • Compatibility: Ensure devices are compatible with your smartphone, tablet, or other health platforms.

  • Battery Life: Consider devices with long battery life to avoid frequent recharging.

  • Customer Support: Opt for brands that offer robust customer support and warranty services.

Compatibility with smartphones and other tech

Many home health monitoring devices are designed to sync with smartphones and other tech platforms. This integration allows for seamless data transfer, real-time monitoring, and easy access to health metrics through dedicated apps.

Accuracy and reliability of different brands

To ensure you choose the right device, check that the device is approved by the proper authority such as the FDA or ISO (Mondal & Mondal, 2021).

Research and reviews can also help determine the accuracy and reliability of different brands. Look for devices with positive feedback from users and healthcare professionals, and check for any clinical validation or certifications. 

Once you get your medical device, it’s important to use them properly, and calibrate them at the intervals the manufacturer recommends to maintain its accuracy (Mondal & Mondal, 2021). 

Budget considerations and cost-effectiveness

While some advanced devices can be expensive, there are cost-effective options available that still offer reliable performance. Consider your budget and prioritize devices that provide the best value for money without compromising on essential features.

Once you’ve chosen your devices, it’s vital to address the important aspects of data protection and privacy.

Privacy and Security Considerations

Blue lock shield

Home health monitoring and remote patient monitoring (RPM) are part of telehealth.  Telehealth provides convenience, but also comes with security risks and issues (Houser et al., 2023):

Let’s look at a few best practices to protect and secure your personal health information.

Protect your health data from breaches

Health data is sensitive and must be protected from breaches. Some tips:

  • Use strong passwords for your health apps and devices.

  • Turn on two-factor authentication in your apps.

  • Use email, chat, or messages through the patient portal. This is especially useful when a private location is temporarily unavailable. If the situation isn’t temporary, ask your health provider for suggestions (Houser et al., 2023).

     
  • Regularly update your software to protect against vulnerabilities.

Understand data ownership and sharing policies

Some apps may share data with third parties for research or marketing purposes. Read the privacy policies of your health apps and devices to understand who owns your data and they share it. Opt for apps that prioritize user privacy and offer clear data ownership policies.

Secure your home network for health devices

Some tips to secure your home network include:

  • Use a strong Wi-Fi password and enabling network encryption.

     
  • Check the URL address bar of your browser before you enter your personal information on a website. A secure website will show a lock icon in the address bar, and look for https:// at the beginning of the URL (as some do not include the “s”).

  • Install and use anti-virus software on your devices.

  • Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for health monitoring, as they are more susceptible to breaches.

Check compliance with health data regulations 

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a regulation in the U.S. that protects the privacy and security of people’s personal health information. Check whether your health monitoring devices and apps are HIPAA-compliant before you use them, or the similar standards in your region if you’re not in the U.S. (Gerke et al., 2020).

Now that you know how to secure your data, it’s time to create an effective monitoring environment in your home.

Setting Up Your Home Health Monitoring System

Create a dedicated space for health monitoring

Black woman smiling at phone with glucose meter on arm

Designate a specific area in your home for health monitoring. This space should be quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions to ensure accurate measurements. Keep all your monitoring devices and accessories organized and easily accessible.

Connect devices to your home network

Most home health monitoring devices use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to connect to your home network. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to pair each device with your smartphone or tablet. Ensure your home network is secure to protect your health data.

Sync devices with health apps and platforms

Download the necessary health apps for your devices and create accounts if required. Synchronize your devices with these apps to enable data transfer and real-time monitoring. Popular health platforms include Apple Health, Google Fit, and dedicated apps from device manufacturers.

Set a daily routine for regular measurements

Consistency is key to effective home health monitoring. Establish a routine for taking measurements, such as checking your blood pressure every morning or measuring your blood glucose levels before meals. Set reminders on your smartphone to help you stay on track.

With your system set up, let’s see how to make sense of the data you’re collecting.

Interpreting and Using Health Data

Learn about health metrics 

Get familiar with the health metrics your devices track, and understand what they mean. For example, know the normal ranges for blood pressure, blood glucose, and oxygen saturation levels. Health apps often provide explanations and visualizations to help you interpret the data (Chan et al., 2022).

Recognize normal ranges and potential red flags

Knowing the normal ranges for your health metrics allows you to identify potential red flags. For instance, a consistently high blood pressure reading may indicate hypertension, while low oxygen saturation levels could signal respiratory issues (Chan et al., 2022). Consult your healthcare provider if you notice any abnormal readings.

Set health goals and track progress

Use the data from your monitoring devices to set health goals, such as achieving a target weight or maintaining stable blood glucose levels. Track your progress over time and adjust your goals as needed. Health apps often offer goal-setting features and progress-tracking tools.

Share data with healthcare providers securely

Many health apps allow you to share your data with healthcare providers securely. This can be done through app integrations, email, or cloud storage platforms. Sharing your data helps your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your treatment plan and monitor your progress remotely.

Maximizing the Benefits of Home Health Monitoring

To get the most out of your home health monitoring system, consider these strategies for integrating it into your daily life.

Black woman gold top showing phone with glucose meter on arm

Integrate monitoring in your daily routine

Include health monitoring into your daily routine to make it a habit. For example, you can check your blood pressure while having your morning coffee or track your steps during your evening walk. Consistency ensures accurate data and better health management (Kariuki, n.d.).

Make lifestyle improvements

Use the insights from your health data to make positive lifestyle changes. For instance, if your fitness tracker shows low activity levels, you can set a goal to increase your daily steps. If your blood glucose levels are high, you can adjust your diet and exercise routine accordingly (Kariuki, n.d.).

Combine monitoring with telehealth services

Telehealth services complement home health monitoring by providing remote consultations with healthcare providers. Share your health data during these virtual visits to receive personalized advice and treatment plans. Telehealth can be especially beneficial for managing chronic conditions and reducing the need for in-person visits.

Involve your family in health-tracking

Involving family members in your health monitoring can provide additional support and motivation. Share your health goals and progress with them, and encourage them to participate in health-tracking activities. This can create a supportive environment and improve overall health outcomes.

Setting up a home health monitoring system is a proactive step to take charge of your well-being. Once you choose the right devices, set a consistent monitoring routine, and learn how to interpret your health data, you can gain valuable insights into your body’s needs and trends. 

Remember, home health monitoring is no substitute for professional medical advice. Use your newfound knowledge to have more informed discussions with your healthcare provider, ask questions, and make proactive decisions about your health. With the right approach, home health monitoring can lead to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life.

Which health monitors and wearables do you use, and how do they help you?

References

Chan, A., Cohen, R., Robinson, M., Bhardwaj, D., Gregson, G., Jutai, J. W., Millar, J., Rincón, A. R., & Fekr, A. R. (2022). Evidence and User Considerations of Home Health Monitoring for Older Adults: Scoping Review. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth, 5(4). doi.org/10.2196/40079

Consumer HealthTech Research Report. (2023). AnalyticsIQ. Retrieved from https://analytics-iq.com/wp-content/uploads/AnalyticsIQ-Research-Report-Consumer-HealthTech.pdf

Gerke, S., Shachar, C., Chai, P. R., & Cohen, I. G. (2020). Regulatory, safety, and privacy concerns of home monitoring technologies during COVID-19. Nature Medicine, 26(8), 1176. doi.org/10.1038/s41591-020-0994-1

Hicks, J. L., Althoff, T., Sosic, R., Kuhar, P., Bostjancic, B., King, A. C., Leskovec, J., & Delp, S. L. (2019). Best practices for analyzing large-scale health data from wearables and smartphone apps. Npj Digital Medicine; 2(1), 1-12. doi.org/10.1038/s41746-019-0121-1


Home Health Monitoring. (2024). Dusun. Retrieved from https://www.dusuniot.com/blog/home-health-monitoring-complete-guide/

Houser, S. H., Flite, C. A., & Foster, S. L. (2023). Privacy and Security Risk Factors Related to Telehealth Services – A Systematic Review. Perspectives in Health Information Management; 20(1). 

Imtyaz Ahmed, M., & Kannan, G. (2022). Secure and lightweight privacy preserving Internet of things integration for remote patient monitoring. Journal of King Saud University – Computer and Information Sciences; 34(9), 6895-6908. doi.org/10.1016/j.jksuci.2021.07.016

Kariuki, F. (n.d.). The Top 13 Benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring. Health Recovery Solutions. Retrieved from https://www.healthrecoverysolutions.com/blog/the-top-13-benefits-of-remote-patient-monitoring

Mason, M., Cho, Y., Rayo, J., Gong, Y., Harris, M., & Jiang, Y. (2022). Technologies for Medication Adherence Monitoring and Technology Assessment Criteria: Narrative Review. JMIR MHealth and UHealth; 10(3). doi.org/10.2196/35157

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