It’s interesting to see the constant innovation in the field of healthcare. From apps for sorting out your health records to platforms for finding the right doctor, there’s not only ample scope but providers of unique solutions as well. Like the Philips Heathsuite Digital Platform- an open cloud-based platform which collects, compiles and analyzes clinical and other data from multiple devices and sources. A quick chat with Vijayananda J, Senior Director, Analytics at Philips Healthcare gave a better insight into the platform and its benefits.
“The HealthSuite digital platform represents a new concept in connected care for both patients and providers. It is supported by salesforce.com,” says Vijay, “Health systems, care providers and individuals can access data on personal health, specific patient conditions and entire populations—so care can be more personalized and people more empowered in their own health, wellbeing and lifestyle.”
The platform also allows for development of third party apps using the APIs adding to its list of advantages. While some pieces of the platform, like Analytics, were started couple of years back, the first release will be made shortly.
“The Primary goal of the platform is to enable collaboration and integration of healthcare devices across care continuum by providing a cloud-based platform,” says Vijay.
One can perform various tasks such as monitoring the vital signs, lifestyle, daily exercises of the user in order to develop apps that cater to their needs while taking into account their medical history, current line of treatment, allergies etc. This provides solid information about the patient. One may even monitor vital signs of the patient via connected devices right at home, enabling healthcare providers an insight into the patient’s condition. The data can be analyzed for warning signs, and overall health management. One also has the option to share information with family or social networks. This is especially helpful in the case of elderly persons who need constant care. Caregivers are able to keep a tab on the patient and predict the health of a person or whether or not they need to be admitted to the hospital.
Features such as the eCareCoordinator provides healthcare providers a chance to review each patient and prioritize care management plans, chart out interventions etc. by way of real-time objective health data as well as subjective responses collected through questionnaires and other communication.
With the help of the eCareCompanion, patients are also able to engage with their care providers and manage their health measurements. They are reminded of pre-assigned tasks such as taking medications on time. The application also has the capability to connect with medical devices, such as a home scale, oximeter, blood pressure meter and medicine dispenser, and enables a deeper insight into one’s own health.
I personally believe given the lack of infrastructure in India, proactive monitoring will play an important role and the industry is bound to adopt such standards. The question is whether Philips would be able to build the right eco system to make such a vision a reality.
It’s definitely another step towards stress-free monitoring of one’s health and useful not only for patients but also for those attending to them. As more than 70% of the healthcare spend is out of the pocket in India, this would go a long way in reducing the financial burden as well. Would you consider using the service if required? And what do you think will the success of this platform be in India?
