Remote medical monitoring systems will impact the way doctors and hospitals interact with patients in the future, says Medtronic.
The medical technology company has introduced the CareLink network, an Internet-based system designed to help physicians and patients manage chronic cardiovascular diseases, treated by implantable devices, remotely.
The CareLink monitor will enable patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) to transmit data from their devices directly to their physicians as part of a virtual check-up.
“The introduction of the CareLink network to SA is set to have a major impact on the way doctors connect with their patients. We hope to improve significantly the quality of life of patients living with ICDs, who will be able to live with far more peace of mind, knowing that they can be in contact with their doctors wherever they are,” says Mike Howe-Ely, regional director of Medtronic.
Medtronic will have a phased implementation of the system throughout the country over the course of next year. The company says it will mainly work with cardiologists who specialise in treating patients with arrhythmias such as those associated with Sudden Cardiac Death. Currently, only one specialist is based at Groote Schuur, a public hospital in the Western Cape, while the rest of the cardiac specialists involved work privately.
The company says remote data transmissions will allow doctors to work more efficiently. The network is based on a data transmission platform which integrates with Medtronic's distance wireless telemetry solutions, allowing for remote and automatic transmission of device data to physicians.
Patients transmit data from their device using the portable monitor on a schedule set by their clinic by placing antenna over the implanted device. The monitor reads device-related and physiological data similar to data that is obtained during a visit to the physician. It then automatically dials a pre-programmed number to send the information to the CareLink network via a standard home telephone connection. Audible tones and indicator lights will then confirm the transmission was successful.
“Doctors will have the advantage of being able to access their patients' device data immediately and conveniently, and to intervene promptly if needed. We allow physicians greater control over their time and improve their patient management. CareLink will also reduce the demand on hospitals by allowing for more comprehensive monitoring at the primary care level,” says Howe-Ely.
The device will be available in hospitals and is aimed at reducing doctor visits and emergency hospital admissions. With the increased roll-out of the device, healthcare in rural areas could also benefit as travel time will be reduced, says Medtronic.
Medtronic says the device will also soon be compatible with pacemakers - a device used to regulate heart rate - and implantable cardiac monitors, which monitor the heart for up to three years.
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