Chronic illnesses used to mean many doctor visits and the constant fear that symptoms would escalate to the point of fatality. But now, physicians are using medical devices and technology to constantly monitor high-risk patients from the comfort of their own homes. The technology--which includes implantable heart monitoring devices, electronic blood pressure monitors and scales that communicate wirelessly with doctors--allows physicians to monitor changes in a patient's health before more serious problems can develop. "The payoff for patients could be more effective use of drugs, fewer and shorter hospital stays, and longer stretches between routine visits to physicians' offices," reports The New York Times. While there are limitations to this approach and kinks that must be worked out, this kind of preventative medicine could save patients a lot of hassle--and everyone a lot of money.
For more on the remote health monitoring systems:
- read this New York Times article