The usage of connected medical devices that communicate over the Internet is steadily increasing. These devices, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, collect a wealth of healthcare data, including metrics like heart rate, sleep patterns, and calorie consumption. This data forms the foundation of the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT).
Understanding the Internet of Medical Things
The IoMT, also known as healthcare IoT, is a network of interconnected medical devices, software, and healthcare services that exchange real-time data through networking technologies.
For example, a heart rate monitor collects patient data, sends it to a hospital cloud software, allowing doctors to gain insights into a patient’s health condition for informed decision-making.
According to Healthcare IT News, 60% of healthcare organizations globally have already implemented IoT solutions, with another 27% expected to follow suit shortly. The rapid adoption of IoMT technologies is driven by various factors.
Rising healthcare costs
Adopting IoMT solutions could potentially save the US healthcare industry around $300 billion annually by reducing hospital visits, detecting diseases early, and optimizing treatment costs.
Increased need for remote patient monitoring
Factors such as the rising incidence of chronic illnesses and the aging population contribute to the demand for remote monitoring solutions. IoMT devices play a crucial role in assisting seniors with their health issues.
Growing health consciousness
The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened awareness about health, leading to increased demand for health monitoring devices.
Functionality of IoMT Systems
Similar to IoT, the architecture of the Internet of Medical Things comprises four main layers: perception or sensor layer, network or communication layer, middleware or processing layer, and the application layer for data analysis.
The perception layer includes medical devices and sensors that collect health-related data. Communication technologies like LAN, BLE, WiFi, and WAN facilitate data transmission to the cloud. Middleware layer acts as a data processing and management environment, while the application layer involves software tools for analyzing medical data.
Various connected medical devices power the IoMT ecosystem by providing crucial health data.
Connected Devices in IoMT
There is a wide range of smart medical devices, including hospital monitors, diagnostic devices, wearables, emergency response systems, and smart pills, all contributing to IoMT functionalities.
Networking Technologies
Data collected from devices is transmitted to the cloud using networking technologies like LAN, BLE, WiFi, and WAN, supported by messaging protocols like MQTT and AMQP.
Middleware Technologies
Cloud IoT platforms such as Google Cloud IoT, AWS IoT, and Microsoft Azure IoT play a vital role in processing and managing IoMT data while ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations like HIPAA.
Medical Software Applications
The application layer involves developing software solutions like health tracking apps, data analytics dashboards, and remote patient monitoring platforms that interact with medical professionals and patients.
Real-world Applications of IoMT
IoMT applications encompass monitoring glucose levels, fall detection, smart hospitals, and advancements in endoscopy examinations, showcasing the transformative potential of connected medical devices.
Challenges in Implementing IoMT Technology
Despite its benefits, IoMT poses challenges such as healthcare data security threats, interoperability issues between systems, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Still, the global IoMT market continues to grow due to the significant benefits it offers, outweighing the challenges associated with its implementation.
