In the last couple of years, we’ve watched the IoT (Internet of Things) transition from a cool new concept to something we interact with daily. It sparked a kind of smart digital transformation that touched almost everything – from simple “smart home” devices like smart thermostats to complex industrial machinery and transportation systems. And when you look at the healthcare sector? You’ll see the real change in healthcare happening with IoMT development services. But what is IoMT, you might ask.

Think of it as the healthcare-specific side of IoT. We’re talking about tools that literally keep people healthy and, in some cases, even save lives. In this exploration, we’ll answer the question of what is IoMT technology, clear up its perspectives in the current market, and provide you with case studies that showcase IoMT in action.

What is Internet of Medical Things (IoMT): An Overview

When we say IoMT stands for the “Internet of Medical Things,” we refer to a specialized subset of IoT, or the Internet of Things. While IoT broadly encapsulates everything from your connected refrigerator to city-wide traffic systems, IoMT narrows that scope, concentrating solely on healthcare-related elements.

So, what exactly comprises the IoMT definition? At its core, IoMT is the networked collection of medical devices, applications, and health systems and services that make up healthcare information technology. It’s how your doctor can remotely monitor your vitals or how real-time data from a wearable can advise a change in treatment protocol. This connectivity isn’t merely about convenience; it’s about providing timely interventions, optimizing treatment plans, and enhancing patient experiences.

In recent years, IoT in healthcare has evolved dramatically, driving innovations that range from simple monitoring devices to complex, integrated systems. For instance, IoT healthcare devices now include smart inhalers, connected contact lenses, and even ingestible sensors that monitor patient conditions in real-time. 

Deloitte’s 2023 Global Health Care Outlook report highlights that evolving consumer attitudes are significantly influencing IoT software development in healthcare. Three major trends are: 

1. Holistic Health Approach: There is a growing focus on treating patients as whole individuals rather than just addressing specific diseases. This includes caring for their physical, mental, and overall well-being. 

2. On-Demand Home Healthcare: Consumers increasingly prefer healthcare services that are available at their convenience and within their homes. This trend encompasses virtual doctor visits, home delivery of prescriptions, remote patient monitoring, and diagnostic tools, along with various self-service apps that empower individuals to manage their own health. 

3. Patient-Centric and Cost-Effective Models: There is a significant investment in new processes, organizational structures, and technologies aimed at creating patient-focused and economical healthcare solutions. These models prioritize the patient’s experience and aim to reduce costs.

IoMT vs. IoT: A Deeper Dive Into Their Differences

In the vast space of modern technologies, IoT (Internet of Things) and IoMT (Internet of Medical Things) are significant players in different industries. While they both revolve around interconnected devices, the contexts in which they operate, their purposes, and their implications differ vastly.

We’ve compiled the details into a table to compare these two concepts better, highlighting their unique roles and applications in various IoMT projects.

What Is IoMT, and How Does It Differ from IoT?

IoMT stands for the Internet of Medical Things. It’s a subset of IoT focused on medical devices and healthcare systems. IoMT collects and analyzes health data in real-time to provide better patient care, while IoT encompasses a broader range of interconnected devices beyond just healthcare applications.

Basis of Comparison	IoMT (Internet of Medical Things)	IoT (Internet of Things)
Definition	So, what is IoMT. A subset of IoT that focuses on connected medical devices and applications to improve patient outcomes and healthcare operations.	Refers to the interconnection of everyday objects via the internet, making them “smart” and able to collect and exchange data.
Primary Focus	Exclusively targets the healthcare and medical sectors.	Wide-ranging and encompasses a diverse spectrum from consumer goods to industrial equipment.
Examples	Remote patient monitoring devices, wearable glucose monitors, connected inhalers, and medical imaging systems.	Smart light bulbs, connected cars, automated factory equipment, smart thermostats.
Data Sensitivity	Primarily handles highly sensitive, confidential, and regulated health information directly impacting patient well-being.	Data can be personal or generic, ranging from a user’s preferred room temperature to factory machine operational hours.
Regulations	Subject to stringent regulations due to the vital nature of health data, such as HIPAA in the U.S.	While regulations exist, especially for data protection (like GDPR in Europe), they are generally less strict than those in the medical sector.
Main Benefits	Real-time patient monitoring, personalized treatment plans, reduction in healthcare operational costs, and efficient management of chronic diseases.	Offers enhanced user convenience, efficient resource utilization, automation, and data-driven insights across various industries.
Security Concerns	Extremely high – any breach can lead to grave consequences, including potential patient harm and massive penalties for violating health privacy regulations.	Security concerns exist, especially with personal data, but the immediate physical implications are typically lower than in the medical domain.
Risks	Misdiagnosis due to faulty data, unauthorized access to critical health data, and potential for malfunctioning life-critical devices.	Privacy breaches, potential for minor physical harm (like a hacked smart car), and data misuse.
Interoperability	Requires highly standardized protocols to ensure diverse medical devices can communicate seamlessly.	Although standards are beneficial, there’s more flexibility and variation in implementation across different medical IoT devices.
Market Growth Drivers	A growing elderly population, rising chronic diseases, surging healthcare expenses, and recent advancements in medical tech.	Surging preference for intelligent devices, swift city growth, industrial innovations, and a more tech-aware consumer base.

IoMT: Its Core Elements

As the Internet of Things in healthcare market continues to expand, IoMT plays a crucial role in enhancing patient care, streamlining the medical device supply chain, and improving overall healthcare efficiency. Transformative IoMT technology integrates wearable devices, smart sensors, and advanced data analytics to provide real-time health monitoring and personalized treatment plans, ultimately improving medical care for individuals.

Medical Devices and Equipment

You can’t talk about IoMT without shining a spotlight on medical devices. Let’s explore some of the stars in this space:

Wearables

The rise of these gadgets isn’t just a fad. They’re loved for the immediate health updates they offer.

• Smart Watches: They’re your mini health-check hubs, gauging heart rhythms, tracking movement, and even providing ECG feedback.
• Fitness Trackers: With sensors that log steps, distance, and calories, these bands give a complete picture of one’s daily exertion.
• Glucose Monitors: These are lifelines for diabetes patients, keeping a close watch on blood sugar levels around the clock.

Monitors

These devices don’t just measure; they record, ensuring a full picture of patient health.

• Blood Pressure Monitors: Vital for those with cardiovascular risks, these devices monitor both systolic and diastolic pressure levels.
• Pulse Oximeters: Essential in measuring oxygen levels in blood, they are crucial for patients with breathing challenges or those undergoing surgeries

Connected Medical Devices

In addition to wearables and monitors, the heart of IoMT is a variety of advanced medical devices interconnected via the Internet.

• Smart Inhalers: For asthma and COPD patients, these inhalers track usage and ensure medication is delivered effectively.
• Digital Pills: Embedded with digestible sensors, pills notify doctors when a medication is taken, ensuring compliance and optimal treatment.
• Smart Pacemakers: These devices not only regulate heartbeats but also provide data on heart function, helping physicians fine-tune treatment plans.

IoMT Connectivity Technologies

At the intersection of healthcare and technology lies the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). To truly understand the value IoMT brings, it’s essential to delve into the IoMT connectivity solutions that power this innovation.

Wireless Communication

Traditional wired setups often face obstacles in terms of mobility and adaptability. Wireless technology, however, opens doors to unhindered communication over vast distances.

• Wi-Fi: Predominant in healthcare institutions, Wi-Fi isn’t just about browsing the Internet. In a medical context, it’s the bridge that connects sophisticated machinery, like MRI scanners, to centralized databases, ensuring vital patient data is promptly and securely processed.
• Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE): An energy-efficient iteration of Bluetooth, BLE is pivotal in the realm of IoMT. This technology serves as the linchpin for short-range device-to-device communication, ideal for wearables and bedside monitors.

Cloud Services

The sheer volume of data processed by IoMT devices requires advanced storage and retrieval systems. This is where cloud technology shines.

• Data Storage: With patient confidentiality at its core, cloud storage offers a secure haven for sensitive information. Whether it’s telemetry from a device or a detailed patient history, the cloud ensures data is secure and easy to access.
• Data Analytics: Advanced analytics tools on the cloud can process vast amounts of data, deriving meaningful insights that aid healthcare professionals in decision-making.

Networks

Ensuring reliable communication between devices and the broader healthcare infrastructure involves intricate network designs.

• Cellular Networks: Devices situated in remote locations or on the move can use cellular networks like 4G or 5G to relay data.
• Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWAN): These networks are designed for devices that need to communicate over long distances with low power consumption, such as gadgets used to monitor patients from a distance.

Software Applications

The driving force behind IoMT is the slew of software solutions built with the unique needs of healthcare in mind. These IoMT applications, supported by intelligent algorithms and instantaneous data processing, provide healthcare professionals with a set of tools to enhance healthcare delivery.

Data Analytics

What is IoMT? It’s a technological advancement that allows real-time health data collection and sharing through interconnected medical devices. But this means we need powerful analytics software to process these data. Such platforms help in:

• Spotting health trends and patterns.
• Forecasting potential health issues from the current data.
• Tailoring treatment strategies based on instant feedback.

Patient Monitoring Applications

When exploring the IoMT meaning, it’s essential to understand how it integrates wearable and implantable devices for continuous health monitoring. These devices include smartwatches that track heart rates, glucose monitors for diabetics, and even ingestible sensors that provide real-time data from within the body. This continuous monitoring allows: 

• Real-time observation of vital signs, stepping in the moment something looks off.
• Distant patient supervision for those with long-term health issues or those who live far from medical centers.
• Personalized treatment plans, as continuous data collection provide a comprehensive view of a patient’s health.

Medical Software

Apart from analytics and tracking, the IoMT world is bursting with software that’s customized for particular medical tasks and assessments. For instance:

• Diagnostic tools assisting in reading medical scans.
• Rehab apps documenting recovery after operations or treatments.
• Operational software aids clinics in tasks like stocking up, lining up patient visits, and best utilizing their assets.

At its core, IoMT isn’t just about gadgets and connections. It’s a rich web that’s key to drawing actionable insights from data. By combining world-class software and the latest IoMT technologies, healthcare teams are equipped to deliver thorough, timely, and optimized care, pushing the boundaries of patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Source: Sciencedirect

The Importance of IoMT in Healthcare

What is IoMT across various healthcare settings? Each application area—from in-hospital and in-home use to on-body and community-wide solutions—uniquely benefits from the capabilities of IoMT.

In-Hospital IoMT

IoMT devices enable real-time tracking of vital signs, streamline workflows, and improve accuracy in diagnostics. This leads to more efficient patient management, reduced hospital stays, and better overall outcomes.

Also, within hospital walls, it’s essential to track the movement and interactions of staff, patients, and equipment. Thanks to In-Hospital IoMT sensors and smart hospital technology, hospitals can now watch these dynamics in real-time. This not only helps in using resources wisely but also offers leaders a comprehensive understanding of the operations, boosting both patient care and hospital management.

In-home IoMT

IoMT at home stands as a strong connector between patients and their healthcare teams, regardless of distance. Devices tailored for monitoring patients at home can send vital stats, like blood pressure or oxygen levels, directly to doctors. Catching health issues early can mean fewer trips back to the hospital.

Pairing IoMT with telehealth is a boon for recently discharged patients. They can address small issues via online chats, dodging unnecessary hospital visits. Plus, tools like personal emergency response systems give an added layer of security, ensuring swift assistance in urgent situations.

On-body IoMT

IoMT isn’t just confined to homes or hospitals; it’s on us. Wearable medical devices, which are part of the on-body IoMT, offer continuous health monitoring as individuals go about their daily routines.

For the general public, wearable devices like fitness trackers provide insights into essential health metrics. More than just monitoring, some of these devices, such as the Apple Watch, can detect potential health threats, acting as a first line of defense.

For more specialized care, clinical on-body IoMT devices offer an expanded range of monitoring options for various health conditions. A prime example would be the glucose sensors for diabetic patients, which can immediately notify them of glucose level anomalies. Understanding what is IoMT here means recognizing its potential to improve quality of life and safety for long-term care residents.

Community IoMT

The IoMT community encompasses an entire community or region beyond individual or hospital settings. Mobility services equipped with IoMT track patient metrics during transit, ensuring continuous care. For situations that require immediate medical intervention, first responders are now equipped with emergency response systems that can monitor and relay patient data in real-time through mobile devices.

The IoMT community is also presenting medical solutions suitable for non-traditional settings. On-site devices allow healthcare providers to extend their services to temporary medical facilities, and kiosks can dispense needed medications in areas with limited access to pharmacies or clinics. Furthermore, the supply chain benefits from IoMT logistics. Sensors can oversee the transportation conditions of critical medical supplies, including medical equipment, ensuring that their quality remains uncompromised during transit.

Telemedicine and IoMT

We mentioned earlier that IoMT stands for the integration of medical devices and applications that connect to healthcare IT systems via networking technologies. For those wondering what is IoMT and how it fits with telemedicine, the answer lies in connectivity and real-time data sharing. 

Telehealth relies on robust software platforms to facilitate remote consultations and follow-ups. But when a telemedicine software development company combines them with IoMT devices, these platforms become even more powerful. Here’s a brief overview of how telemedicine works with IoMT:

• Data Collection: IoMT devices collect health data continuously.
• Data Transmission: The data reaches healthcare providers securely via telemedicine platforms.
• Data Analysis: Providers evaluate the data in real-time to make well-informed choices.
• Remote Consultation: Patients can consult with their doctors through video calls, chat, or phone, based on the data collected by IoMT devices.

Understanding IoMT meaning and its applications in telemedicine can revolutionize patient care. By leveraging IoMT technology, healthcare providers can offer more personalized, efficient, and cost-effective care. So, the next time you hear about the IoMT definition in telemedicine,  remember – it stands for a smarter, more connected future in healthcare.

IoMT Real-World Impact: A Look at Case Studies

When considering the future of healthcare, a common question arises: what is IoMT impact and what benefits does it offer? Let’s look at IoMT in action with the help of practical examples from the real world.

1. Remote Patient Monitoring

Remote patient monitoring exemplifies the transformative impact of IoMT on healthcare. Using advanced sensors and remote patient monitoring software development, healthcare providers can track vital signs, detect anomalies, and intervene early. The benefits of remote patient monitoring include enhanced patient outcomes, reduced hospital readmissions, and more efficient use of healthcare resources.

Real-life example: Addressing the pressing issue of increasing sick leaves and aiming to enhance patient care quality, Boston Scientific Partnership introduced a remote monitoring system. This forward-thinking method allows healthcare professionals to consistently monitor patients, particularly those battling chronic conditions like congestive heart failure and diabetes, reducing their frequent trips to the hospital. It serves as a prime example of the use cases for IoMT technology in the healthcare industry.

2. Smart Inhalers for Asthma Patients

Smart inhalers for asthma patients demonstrate another impactful application of IoMT. By integrating these inhalers into a smart healthcare system using IoT, patients can receive real-time feedback on their usage, adherence, and environmental triggers.

Real-life example: A recurring obstacle for asthma patients is maintaining a regular inhaler regimen. Recognizing this, Propeller Health developed a connected inhaler that tracks medication usage. By integrating sensors, the inhaler sends data to a smartphone app, which in turn provides users with insights into their medication patterns and possible environmental triggers for their symptoms. This has led to improved medication adherence and reduced emergency hospital visits for asthma attacks.

3. Connected Insulin Pens

For diabetics, maintaining the right insulin levels is paramount. Traditional methods can sometimes lead to inaccuracies and complications. IoMT technology offers a game-changing solution with connected insulin pens that enhance precision and ease of management. These intelligent devices make sure patients receive the accurate dosage when needed, using the collected IoMT data to lower the chances of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia and boosting overall diabetes care.

Real-life example: Look at the connected insulin pens developed through a collaboration between Novo Nordisk and Medtronic. These pens automatically track and send insulin dosage data to continuous glucose monitoring systems. This integrated approach ensures more accurate insulin dosing and provides real-time feedback to both patients and healthcare providers.

4. Wearable ECG Monitors

Monitoring heart rhythms traditionally requires cumbersome equipment, making it inconvenient for continuous use and everyday monitoring. The requirement for frequent visits to healthcare centers for ECG readings can be a major burden for patients, especially those with chronic illnesses.

Real-life example: However, AliveCor’s KardiaMobile has changed this paradigm. This pocket-sized ECG device, when connected to a smartphone, allows users to record a medical-grade ECG in just 30 seconds. Any irregularities are instantly noted, and the data is easily transmitted to a healthcare professional. This level of instantaneous feedback is paramount in conditions like atrial fibrillation, where timely intervention can prevent severe complications.

5. Critical Equipment Monitoring

Consider the potential impacts of power outages, system failures, or even cyber attacks on healthcare facilities. No healthcare organization can afford such incidents, which could compromise patient safety and operational efficiency. To mitigate these risks, they turn to advanced IoT solutions.
Real-life example: Philips’ e-Alert system exemplifies this approach. If any equipment malfunctions, the solution alerts hospital staff so that the failure can be avoided through preventive maintenance. This application highlights the IoMT meaning in ensuring operational efficiency and patient safety by preventing unexpected equipment failures.

Challenges of IoT in Healthcare

Comprehending IoMT’s weak points and addressing these challenges of IoT in healthcare is essential to harness the full potential of this transformative technology. 

Data Security and Privacy

Healthcare data holds a high level of sensitivity. IoMT devices, while offering immense benefits, also introduce new healthcare IoT security risks.

Challenges:

• Unauthorized Access: IoMT devices are at risk of hacking and misuse if not properly secured, potentially compromising patient data and device functionality.
• Patient Privacy Violations: Inadequate protection of patient data can result in violations of privacy, causing harm to individuals and legal repercussions for healthcare providers.

Solutions:

• Robust Encryption: Utilizing strong encryption techniques ensures data sent between IoMT devices and healthcare systems remains secure and inaccessible to unauthorized individuals.
• Access Controls: Strict access controls determine who can view or change patient data, ensuring only authorized staff members have access.
• Regular Security Audits: Conducting regular security reviews reveals and resolves vulnerabilities, ensuring the system stays protected from new threats.
• Employee Training: Informing staff about data security protocols and the significance of securing patient information minimizes human error risks.
• Compliance with Data Protection Regulations: Adhering to regulations like HIPAA and GDPR ensures that data handling practices meet legal standards, protecting patient privacy and avoiding legal penalties.

Interoperability and Standardization

Integrating different IoT devices and systems in healthcare often encounters challenges due to incompatible protocols and standards.

Challenges:

• Data Exchange Difficulties: Incompatible data formats and communication protocols make it hard for different devices and systems to share information seamlessly.
• System Integration Issues: Diverse systems that don’t “speak the same language” struggle to integrate, leading to fragmented healthcare solutions.
• Inefficient Workflows: When systems can’t communicate effectively, it results in redundant tasks and slower processes, affecting overall efficiency.

Solutions:

• Adoption of Standardized Protocols: Utilizing industry standards like FHIR and HL7 allows for smooth data exchange between various systems.
• Development of Interoperability Frameworks: Creating frameworks that guide the integration of various systems and devices helps achieve seamless interoperability across different platforms.
• Promoting Open Data Standards: Encouraging the use of open data standards allows for more accessible and transparent data exchange, reducing barriers to integration and enhancing collaboration among healthcare providers.

Data Overload and Management

IoMT devices generate vast amounts of data, making it challenging to store, process, and extract meaningful insights.

Challenges:

• Data Storage Limitations: The large volume of data generated can exceed the capacity of traditional storage solutions, leading to storage issues.
• Slow Data Processing: Large datasets can slow down processing times, delaying the availability of critical information.
• Difficulties in Identifying Relevant Information: With so much data, it can be hard to filter out the noise and focus on the most important information.

Solutions:

• Data Analytics Tools: Implementing advanced data analytics tools helps in efficiently processing large volumes of data, allowing for the extraction of actionable insights.
• Cloud-Based Storage: Utilizing cloud-based storage solutions provides scalable and flexible storage options, accommodating the growing data needs of IoMT devices.
• Data Cleaning and Preprocessing: Employing data cleaning and preprocessing techniques ensures that the data is accurate, relevant, and ready for analysis, reducing the clutter and enhancing data quality.
• Real-Time Data Processing Capabilities: Integrating real-time data processing capabilities ensures that data is analyzed and acted upon immediately, improving response times and decision-making.

Infrastructure and Technology Limitations of IoMT Devices

Outdated infrastructure and technological constraints can hinder IoT implementation in healthcare.

Challenges:

• Limited Network Bandwidth: Insufficient bandwidth can slow down data transmission, affecting the performance of IoMT devices.
• Device Compatibility Issues: Older infrastructure might not support the latest IoMT devices, leading to integration problems.
• Lack of Necessary Infrastructure: Many healthcare facilities may lack the foundational infrastructure required to support advanced IoT technologies.

Solutions:

• Upgrading Network Infrastructure: Enhancing network infrastructure to provide higher bandwidth ensures faster and more reliable data transmission, essential for the smooth operation of IoMT devices.
• Ensuring Device Compatibility: Investing in compatible hardware and software solutions ensures that new IoMT devices can integrate seamlessly with existing systems.
• Investing in Emerging Technologies like 5G: Adopting cutting-edge technologies such as 5G offers significant improvements in speed, reliability, and capacity, which are crucial for supporting the demands of modern IoT applications in healthcare.

Cost and Investment

IoT solutions often require significant expenses for implementation and upkeep.

Challenges:

• High Initial Costs: The upfront expenditure needed to buy and integrate IoT devices and systems can be significant.
• Ongoing Operational Expenses: Maintenance, updates, and operational costs continue to add up over time.
• Return on Investment Uncertainty: Identifying the economic advantages and justifying the investments can be tough, especially in the early stages.

Solutions:

• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Conducting a thorough cost-benefit analysis helps to understand the long-term financial and operational advantages, justifying the initial investment.
• Phased Implementation: Rolling out IoT solutions in stages allows for managing costs more effectively, minimizing financial risk, and learning from each phase to improve subsequent implementations.
• Exploring Government Grants and Subsidies: Seeking available grants and subsidies can significantly offset initial and ongoing costs, making IoT solutions more affordable.
• Leveraging Cloud-Based Services: Utilizing cloud-based services can reduce the need for extensive on-premises infrastructure, lowering both initial setup and ongoing operational costs.

Ethical and Legal Issues

Integrating IoT in healthcare introduces several ethical and legal challenges, particularly concerning data ownership, patient consent, and algorithmic bias.

Challenges:

• Balancing Patient Privacy with Data Utilization: Ensuring patient data is used effectively for treatment and research while protecting individual privacy can be difficult.
• Ensuring Ethical AI Development: AI algorithms must be developed and tested to avoid biases that could lead to unequal treatment or outcomes.
• Complying with Legal Frameworks: Healthcare organizations must navigate complex legal regulations, such as HIPAA and GDPR, to ensure compliance in data handling and processing.

Solutions:

• Clear Data Ownership Policies: Establish transparent policies that define who owns the data and how it can be used, ensuring patients retain control over their personal information.
• Informed Patient Consent: Establish strong consent procedures that clearly explain to patients how their data will be utilized and obtain their agreement.
• Ethical AI Guidelines: Create and follow standards that ensure fairness and accountability in AI development, reducing the risk of biases.
• Regular Legal Consultations: Engage with legal experts to stay updated on regulations and ensure ongoing compliance with all legal requirements.

User Acceptance and Training

Introducing new technologies in healthcare can sometimes be met with resistance from both healthcare professionals and patients. This reluctance often arises from several understandable concerns.

Challenges:

• Lack of Understanding: People might not fully grasp how new technologies work or see their benefits, leading to hesitancy.
• Fear of Change: Shifts can be unsettling, especially in healthcare. Questions about the reliability of new devices and how they will alter current practices are common.
• Resistance to New Workflows: New technologies often disrupt established routines, requiring staff to learn new processes, which can be initially challenging.

Solutions:

• Comprehensive Training Programs: Provide hands-on, consistent training to ensure users feel secure with the new technology.
• Change Management Strategies: Implement strategies to ease the transition, involve stakeholders early, and offer support throughout the adoption phase.
• Effective Communication Campaigns: Clearly explain the benefits, share success stories, and address concerns to build trust and reduce anxiety.

Integration with Existing Systems

Integration can be a complex and multifaceted process. It involves ensuring that new, advanced medical technologies work seamlessly with the established infrastructure, which often includes a variety of legacy systems and software.

Challenges:

• Data Compatibility: Different devices and systems often use various data formats, making it hard for them to communicate.
• Interoperability: Many healthcare systems aren’t designed to work together, leading to integration issues.
• Workflow Disruptions: New technology can disrupt current workflows, requiring staff to adapt to new processes.

Solutions:

• Standardized Data Formats: Using common data standards ensures that all systems can understand and use the data from IoMT devices.
• API Integration: APIs help different systems talk to each other, making integration smoother.
• Phased Implementation: Introducing new technology gradually helps minimize disruptions and allows staff time to adjust.

Our IoT Case: Visualizing Air Quality Sensor Data in a Web Dashboard

Since 2008, Airthings, a Norwegian tech company, has been a leader in indoor radon detection products. They have developed a custom dashboard to display air quality data measured by Airthings devices to end-users conveniently and allow the company to monitor all its devices worldwide.

Airthings faced the challenge of needing real-time data collection, processing, and visualization from their IoT devices. They required the ability to display data from every Airthings device globally in real-time to both device owners and Airthings managers. With numerous devices displayed on an interactive map, ensuring smooth transitions without lag was essential.

Our engineers introduced a new dashboard feature on the Airthings website, connecting all devices and allowing user customization. Additionally, we created a map to show each device’s location and data, utilizing clustering to minimize load times and enhance rendering speed.

Implemented Features	Description
Monitoring and Alert System	Monitors multiple rooms and issues alerts if air quality drops below acceptable levels.
Dashboard Customization	Users can add, remove, drag, drop, and resize tiles to match their preferences.
CSV Export	Enables users to export data in CSV format for additional analysis and usage.
Multiple Types of Tiles	Device tiles summarize sensor data, and sensor tiles show data from individual sensors.
Optimization of Map Performance
Fast Loading	Configured Mapbox so images on the map are downloaded from multiple domains.
Eliminated Lag During Transitions	Server-side rendering and Mapbox optimization improved map performance.
Optimized Rendering	Raster images speeded up map loading and rendering as they were ready to use from the server.

The solution we developed for Airthings opened new growth opportunities, enhanced marketing efforts, and improved radon level analysis. Now, Airthings can:

• Attract and engage more users due to the dashboard’s convenience.
• Monitor the global distribution of their devices.
• Identify potential new markets.
• Additionally, customers appreciate the ability to track indoor air quality.

Our Healthcare Case: Facilitating the Ordering of Custom Prostheses and Orthotics

Our client, Itera, a Norwegian software development company, engaged our staff augmentation services to enhance and develop develop mobile apps for Össur. Össur has been a leader in manufacturing prosthetics and non-invasive orthopedics equipment since 1971. We contributed to two of their mobile apps.

The SmartMeasure app assists doctors through the entire knee brace selection, measurement, and ordering process. The Össur Custom Solutions App facilitates ordering lower-limb prosthetic sockets and custom liners, using a 3D scanner to scan transtibial limbs for creating customized orders.

Our iOS developers were tasked with improving and rewriting parts of the existing applications. Ensuring a seamless migration of user data after app updates was critical. Additionally, both apps needed to function offline, presenting a unique challenge.

We seamlessly integrated into Itera’s ongoing project. Throughout Scrum sprints, we refactored code, implemented new features, and documented the process. User data was successfully migrated between app versions through database synchronization. In offline mode, the apps store data locally until it can be uploaded to the server.

Implemented Features	Description
Knee Brace Selection	The SmartMeasure app allows doctors to select the appropriate Össur braces for patients.
Patient Data	Patients can easily enter their personal information to create personalized orders.
Measurement	The app measures key parameters of a patient’s knee to customize braces.
Össur Custom Solution	The Custom Solutions app aids in ordering new lower-limb prosthetic sockets and custom liners.
Order Creation	Users can easily send orders for knee braces and prosthetics to Össur.
3D Scanning	The app uses a 3D scanner to measure transtibial limbs for customized prosthetic sockets and liners.

The transition to scanning and electronic ordering has saved significant time and money compared to traditional casting and shipping methods. The digitalization of data and the offline capabilities of the Össur apps have greatly improved the efficiency and performance of healthcare professionals.

What is IoMT?: Bottom Line

The horizon showcases not just an increase in numbers but an evolution in the very fabric of IoMT technology. More devices will interconnect, each smarter than its predecessor. And it’s not just about adding numbers; it’s about amplifying efficiency. With superior sensors feeding more precise real-time data, we’re set to witness a paradigm shift in patient monitoring and diagnostics.

But the true game-changer lies in the infusion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). As these technologies intertwine with IoMT, we are committed to predictive, proactive, and personalized healthcare. Gone will be the days of solely reactive medicine; the future is about anticipating health challenges and addressing them ahead of time.

The vast reservoirs of data coming from IoMT will not remain just numbers and charts. This data will be the cornerstone of groundbreaking research, fostering new treatment methodologies previously thought unimaginable. Beyond individual patient care, the holistic healthcare landscape stands to gain immensely. IoMT promises to iron out operational wrinkles, making medical management sleeker and more efficient. Plus, imagine a world where healthcare institutions globally aren’t siloed entities but are part of a collaborative nexus, all thanks to the cohesive force of IoMT and its software providers.

Want to keep up with IoMT innovations? Our proven healthcare expertise and satisfied clients make us the partner you need.

With our IoMT development services, you’re not just witnessing this transformation from the sidelines – you’re actively participating, ensuring your healthcare or business needs are met with precision and foresight. Contact us!