Continua is focusing on Bluetooth technology to ensure interoperability between devices, modules, implantables, wearables and the like with mobile phones, basestations and other devices that will collect the data transmitted from them, either for biometric monitors like the ones used for advanced fitness or health applications and also for implantable devices.
There were several interesting speeches and a live demo on what the interoperability should be, and could be, today.
Continua representatives stressed the point that devices must have a certified label stating interoperability, so then use can spread out very easily.
A key message was that there is no more time for pilots and testing. Technolgy is here, so let’s make the best use of it. There is a need to accept what already exist and works. One of the panelist in one morning session stated : “Liberate the telehealth benefit.”
The level of expertise of people attending the summit was high. It included people who have been in this sector for more than ten years.
A video was shown by Continua about the ‘ideal scenario’ in which patients, nurses, doctors, care givers and family were interconnected in the real life.
In Catalunya, where we have a fragmented healthcare system, with different types of providers of care (public-private) and different finacing models, there is a new project to build, with Continua, a common ‘fragmented’ health record, to put all the possible technology in place.
The need is to enable new ways to help people live healthier and more independent lives: to lower healthcare costs by providing a variety of remote health monitoring services promoting wellness and fitness while also reducing in-patient stays – all without sacrificing convenience or mobility.
A global standard for interoperable wireless devices enabling secure and reliable monitoring and management of noncritical, low-acuity healthcare services targeted at chronic disease management, obesity and ageing should be provided and designed for use in homes, fitness centers, retirement communities, nursing homes and a variety of medical care facilities. Products should be wearable, portable or fixed, depending on needs.
Industry members are being asked to produce technologies and systems that will meet the requirements of a diverse and global ecosystem of consumers, service providers, care providers, payers, product manufacturers and policymakers.
Readers can contact Margarida Colet Jané by email: marga@turismo-salud.com
The Continua Alliance’s website link can be found in Telecare Aware’s Useful Sites directory.