Roche’s new INRange device allows health readings to be transmitted via Bluetooth technology to a patient’s mobile phone via a new app, My Inhealthcare. The readings run seamlessly through dosing software and the correct dosing information is sent back to the patient. The app is available on both the App Store and Google Play Store. The use of Bluetooth streamlines the process of self-testing, making it more efficient for patients who no longer need to enter their readings manually.
The INRange meter is used by patients who are taking Vitamin K antagonists such as warfarin to prevent strokes related to a heart condition known as atrial fibrillation. Patients who test themselves at home spend more time in their ideal therapeutic range, according to findings from the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.
Patients who are less confident with technology can choose an automated telephone call, a desktop computer or SMS text message to send their readings to the clinician. Inhealthcare’s INR self-testing service gives choice to patients to maximise engagement, convenience and adoption of the service.
Bryn Sage, chief executive of Inhealthcare, said: “If adopted widely, self-testing can also have a transformative effect on the NHS by vastly reducing the number of routine or mundane appointments.”
The functionality will be made available to any NHS organisations adopting the service. Patient data is fed directly into patient records using Inhealthcare’s national digital health platform. If readings fall outside of set parameters, clinicians are alerted for follow-up.