With Instant Transmission of Glucose Readings, Cellular-Enabled Glucometer Usage Soars By Almost 58% In 2024

One of the most astonishing findings of the 2024 National Diabetes Care Survey was the fact that a growing number of people with Type 2 diabetes are using cellular-enabled glucose meters. The National Diabetes Care Survey is a longitudinal analysis of patients with Type 2 diabetes in the United States and has been conducted annually since 2021. The survey reveals that the use of cellular-enabled glucometers grew by 57.6% as compared to the number from the 2023 Survey.

Diabetes affects more than 38 million people in the United States. It is estimated that another approximately 98 million Americans have prediabetes. In the last 20 years, the number of Americans with diagnosed diabetes has more than doubled. According to one study, about 45% of people with diabetes don’t adequately control their glucose levels.¹

Testing their glucose and knowing their reading on a regular basis can help people with Type 2 diabetes better manage their disease. It is also imperative for their physician to know their daily glucose reading to provide guidance and possible adjustments to their care plan.

Patients and providers are looking for an easy-to-use glucometer so glucose readings can be taken at home and transmitted to a healthcare professional. Cellular-enabled glucometers, like the iGlucose Plus from Smart Meter, are easier for people with Type 2 diabetes to use because there is no synching, pairing, WiFi or hub required for test results to be sent immediately to a provider.

With cellular RPM glucose meter solutions from Smart Meter, providers are assured of getting the latest and most accurate data when a patient tests. This can help identify trends, prevent hospitalization, and improve outcomes between office visits. To help ensure adherence, Smart Meter provides an algorithm driven auto-refill service in which patients automatically receive glucose test strips delivered right to their door.

“People with Type 2 diabetes have more choices than ever for measuring their glucose level but are continuing to turn to a cellular-enabled glucose meter because of its ease of use and instant transmission of results,” said Dr. Bill Lewis, a member of the ClearHealth Quality Institute (CHQI) for Telemedicine Standards and Medical Advisory Board and Chair of the Telemedicine Accreditation Committee. “Smart Meter’s iGlucose Plus transmits the glucose reading immediately and features a multi-carrier SIM so it connects to the strongest cell network in the patient’s area, making it reliable, accurate, and secure every time.”

Because cellular-enabled monitors are some of the easiest for patients to use to test their glucose levels regularly at home, it provides a better patient experience, better patient engagement and better patient adherence to care plan instructions, leading to stabilized or better control of diabetes.

You can view the complete results of the 2024 National Diabetes Care Survey here.

About Smart Meter, LLC

Smart Meter is the trusted supplier of Remote Patient Monitoring (“RPM”) solutions. We empower a nationwide network of SmartPartners^TM who are working directly with healthcare providers to transform patient care. Millions of vital health data readings are reliably delivered across our platform to enable real-time, better-informed health care. Our proprietary patient-friendly cellular FDA-registered monitoring devices are connected to an exclusive AT&T 4/5G network to ensure an engaging patient experience for improved adherence. For more information, visit SmartMeterRPM.com

¹Poor medication adherence in type 2 diabetes: recognizing the scope of the problem and its key contributors - PMC (nih.gov)

88% of Type 2 Diabetics Would Test Their Glucose More Consistently If The Results Were Shared With Their Doctor

The results of the 2024 National Diabetes Care Survey, a longitudinal analysis of patients with Type 2 diabetes in the United States, have been tabulated and offer vital insights into how cellular remote patient monitoring (RPM)™ can make a difference in diabetes management. The survey results show that patients, more than ever, would test their glucose more regularly if their reading was sent to their provider, and that number increased 34.8% year-over-year.

In the 2024 Diabetes Care Survey, 88.3% of participants said they would test more consistently knowing their results were being sent to their provider. With most people with Type 2 diabetes only seeing their doctor two times a year or less, they are asked to keep track of their testing numbers for long periods of time. If the patient is solely responsible for writing down their readings for review by their physician during an office visit, there may be an issue with the accuracy of those readings. It is estimated that 50% of patients don’t adequately track readings or provide false readings to their doctor.¹

For the third year in a row, the number of people who said they would test more consistently increased. For the same question in the 2023 National Diabetes Care Survey, 61.5% of those surveyed responded they would test more regularly. In the 2022 survey, 46.8% agreed with the same statement and only 35% agreed with that statement in 2021.

November is American Diabetes Month®, a time to raise awareness for a disease that has already affected more than 38 million people in the United States. It is estimated that another approximately 98 million Americans have prediabetes. In the last 20 years, the number of Americans with diagnosed diabetes has more than doubled. According to one study, about 45% of people with diabetes don’t adequately control their glucose levels.² Testing their glucose and knowing their reading on a regular basis can help people with Type 2 diabetes better manage their disease. It is also imperative for their physician to know their daily glucose reading to provide guidance and possible adjustments to their care plan.

“When patients use a cellular-enabled glucose meter, they know their results are being sent immediately to their provider,” said Dr. Bill Lewis, a member of the ClearHealth Quality Institute (CHQI) for Telemedicine Standards and Medical Advisory Board and Chair of the Telemedicine Accreditation Committee. “Smart Meter’s iGlucose transmits instantly through an exclusive AT&T private data network so data is secure, accurate, and reliable every time.”

Patients and providers are looking for an easy-to-use glucometer so glucose readings can be taken at home and transmitted to a healthcare professional. With cellular RPM glucose meter solutions from Smart Meter, providers are assured of getting the latest and most accurate data when a patient tests. This can help identify trends, prevent hospitalization, and improve outcomes between office visits. To help ensure adherence, Smart Meter provides an algorithm driven auto-refill service in which patients automatically receive glucose test strips delivered right to their door.

Cellular-enabled monitors are some of the easiest for patients to use to test their glucose levels regularly at home. The ease-of-use and convenience of cellular-based glucose monitors leads to a better patient experience, better patient engagement and better patient adherence to care plan instructions, leading to stabilized or better control of diabetes.

You can view the complete results of the 2024 National Diabetes Care Survey here.

About Smart Meter, LLC

¹Doctors Want To See Your Glucose Meter | Prevention

² Poor medication adherence in type 2 diabetes: recognizing the scope of the problem and its key contributors - PMC (nih.gov)

Seventy-Six Percent of People With Diabetes Have Issues Transmitting Their Reading Using Bluetooth® Glucose Meters

The results of the 2024 National Diabetes Care Survey, a longitudinal analysis of patients with Type 2 diabetes in the United States, have been released and provide important insights into how remote patient monitoring (RPM) can benefit patients with chronic conditions. The survey results show that the use of Cellular RPM^™ devices, which increased a staggering 57.6% year-over-year, are easier for patients to use than Bluetooth^®-enabled devices.

In fact, 76% of participants who use a Bluetooth device indicated they sometimes, often, or always have issues sending their readings to their provider, and an overwhelming majority (70%) of that group said they always have issues. For the third year in a row, the number of people who have issues with Bluetooth increased. For the same question in the 2023 National Diabetes Care Survey, 70% of those surveyed responded they have issues. And in the 2022 survey, 60% had issues sending their reading with Bluetooth glucose monitors.

So, while there was a dramatic increase in respondents indicating they use cellular-enabled glucose monitor in the last two surveys and have few or no issues with its use, there was also an increase in the number of people who have issues with Bluetooth-enabled devices that require pairing, synching, and Wi-Fi in order for the reading to be transmitted to a healthcare professional. These kinds of issues can cause patient frustration, leading to non-adherence to testing protocols. More and more people are using connected glucose meters to ensure their doctors have their readings to help better manage their health, and the survey data clearly shows that cellular-enabled devices are significantly more reliable than Bluetooth-enabled devices.

November is American Diabetes Month®, a time to raise awareness for a disease that has already affected more than 38 million people in the United States, and another almost 98 million with prediabetes. In the last 20 years, the number of Americans with diagnosed diabetes has more than doubled. According to one study, about 45% of people with diabetes don’t adequately control their glucose levels.¹ Testing their glucose and knowing their reading on a regular basis can help people with Type 2 diabetes better manage their disease. It is also imperative for their physician to know their daily glucose reading to provide guidance and possible adjustments to their care plan.

With most people with Type 2 diabetes only seeing their doctor two times a year or less, they are asked to keep track of their testing numbers for long periods of time. If a patient is solely responsible for writing down their readings for review by their physician during an office visit, there may be an issue with those readings. It is estimated that 50% of patients don’t adequately track readings or provide false readings to their doctor.²

“While Bluetooth-connected devices for monitoring people with diabetes are common, they are not always the most effective,” said Dr. Bill Lewis, a member of the CHQI Telemedicine Standards and Medical Advisory Board and Chair of the Telemedicine Accreditation Committee. “Connection issues with Bluetooth devices are a common problem and patients become less likely to utilize the technology. A device that utilizes an automatic cellular transmission of data resolves so many of these problems.”

Patients and providers are looking for an easy-to-use glucometer so glucose readings can be taken at home and transmitted to a healthcare professional. With cellular remote glucose monitoring solutions from Smart Meter, providers are assured of getting the latest and most accurate data when a patient tests. This can help identify trends, prevent hospitalization, and improve outcomes between office visits.

Cellular-enabled monitors are some of the easiest for patients to use to test their glucose levels regularly at home. The convenience of cellular-based glucose monitors enables better patient adherence to care plan instructions, leading to stabilized or better control of diabetes.

“When patients use a cellular-enabled glucose meter, they know their results are being sent immediately to their provider,” Lewis said. “Smart Meter’s iGlucose Plus transmits instantly through an exclusive AT&T private data network so data is secure, accurate, and reliable every time.”

You can view the complete results of the 2024 National Diabetes Care Survey here.

About Smart Meter, LLC

¹ Poor medication adherence in type 2 diabetes: recognizing the scope of the problem and its key contributors - PMC (nih.gov)

²Doctors Want To See Your Glucose Meter | Prevention

Health Recovery Solutions Partners with Smart Meter to Provide Cost-Effective Cellular Remote Patient Monitoring for the Home

HOBOKEN, N.J., Oct. 7, 2024 -- Health Recovery Solutions (HRS), the market leader in Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) since 2012, proudly announces its partnership with Smart Meter to enhance the PatientConnect^® Remote Patient Monitoring solution. This collaboration introduces cellular measurement devices as a lower-cost alternative to the traditional Bluetooth-based solution.

Jason Comer, CEO of Health Recovery Solutions, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: "Our goal has always been to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for everyone. By partnering with Smart Meter, we are able to offer a more flexible, easy to use, and cost-effective solution that caters to the needs of our diverse patient population. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our mission to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs."

Since its inception, HRS has improved the lives of over a million patients and their caregivers, consistently delivering exceptional care across hundreds of health systems, hospitals, home health agencies, community health centers, and physician-led organizations in the United States and Canada.

The integration of cellular measurement devices into the PatientConnect^® RPM system is designed to provide a more accessible option for patients of lower acuity or facing socioeconomic disparities. This innovation not only lowers the cost of care for patients but also reduces expenses for healthcare organizations, making quality healthcare more affordable and accessible.

Casey Pittock, CEO of Smart Meter, agrees that the partnership will allow both organizations to better serve patients: "We are excited to join forces with Health Recovery Solutions to bring cellular measurement devices to the forefront of remote patient monitoring. This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to innovative healthcare solutions that break down barriers to quality care. Together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of patients and healthcare providers alike."

The launch of this new cellular measurement device option underscores HRS's dedication to continuous innovation and excellence in patient care. As the healthcare landscape evolves, HRS remains at the forefront, consistently delivering cutting-edge solutions that address the unique challenges faced by patients and healthcare providers.

About Health Recovery Solutions

HRS is the leading healthcare technology company transforming quality care at home for the betterment of patients. Our digital tools, services, and proven experience enable clinical decision-making earlier in the patient journey which, ultimately, improves patient and provider satisfaction while reducing costs and administrative burden for clinicians, hospitals, payors, and other healthcare organizations. For more, visit www.healthrecoverysolutions.com.

About Smart Meter

Smart Meter is the number one supplier of Cellular Remote Patient Monitoring^™ solutions to a nationwide network of SmartPartners^™ who are transforming patient care. Millions of vital health data readings are reliably delivered across our platform enabling SmartPartners^™ to deliver real-time, better-informed health care. Our proprietary, patient-friendly, cellular, FDA-registered monitoring devices are connected to an exclusive AT&T private data network to ensure a secure and reliable transmission, and engaging patient experience for improved adherence. For more, visit https://smartmeterrpm.com.

GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs Used By More Than 15 Million Americans Could Be More Effective With Digital Health Tools

Smart Meter's Cellular-Connected Weight Scale Enables Better Outcomes

Tampa, FL September 12, 2024 — As technology continues to transform healthcare, cellular remote patient monitoring (RPM)™ solutions are making waves in weight loss management programs. Smart Meter’s iScale and iScale Plus can be a key component of a weight management program because they offer a revolutionary approach to tracking progress and enhancing patient outcomes. By integrating these advanced devices into weight management protocols, healthcare providers and patients alike are experiencing more effective, data-driven solutions to achieve and maintain healthy weight goals.

A recent study¹ led by a Stanford Medicine researcher makes one thing clear: No matter which weight loss tactic a patient uses, they are typically more successful if they track their progress with digital health tools. According to the study, the closer people track their weight-loss efforts with things like digital scales and diet-monitoring websites, the more weight they tend to lose.

Enhancing Accountability and Consistency

According to recent surveys, 15 to 20 million Americans are using weight loss injections and are part of a weight loss management program because of that. One of the primary challenges faced by individuals attempting to lose weight is maintaining consistency and accountability. Traditional weight loss programs often rely on periodic in-person visits to assess progress, which can result in gaps between consultations and insufficient real-time feedback. Cellular RPM scales bridge this gap by providing daily or weekly updates to both patients and healthcare providers.

Self-weighing is an important behavior for these patients to develop. A review of self-weighing studies found that in 11 of the 12 reviewed studies, more frequent self-weighing was associated with greater weight loss or weight gain prevention. In addition, physicians want to be able to track weight loss for patients using injections in real time without the patient making an office visit.

With cellular RPM scales, weight data is automatically transmitted from the patient’s home to their healthcare team. This constant flow of information allows for continuous monitoring, ensuring patients stay on track and make adjustments as needed. The ability to see their progress in real time increases patients' motivation and accountability, making it easier for them to stick to their prescribed programs.

Personalized Feedback for Better Outcomes

Remote patient monitoring enables a more personalized approach to weight loss management. When weight data is transmitted to healthcare providers, they can analyze trends, identify plateaus, and make informed recommendations without waiting for in-person appointments. This data-driven approach helps tailor diet, exercise, and lifestyle interventions based on real-time feedback.

Cellular RPM scales also help healthcare providers address potential health issues more quickly. For example, sudden weight fluctuations could signal a need for a medication review, dietary adjustment, or even mental health support. This level of precision allows for early intervention, improving the overall effectiveness of weight loss programs.

Convenience and Flexibility for Patients

One of the most appealing aspects of RPM scales is the convenience they offer. Patients no longer need to travel for weigh-ins, making weight loss programs more accessible to those with busy schedules, mobility issues, or geographical constraints. Remote monitoring also allows healthcare providers to reach a broader patient base, including those in rural or underserved areas, ensuring that more people have access to professional weight management support.

Supporting Long-Term Success

Long-term weight maintenance is a critical aspect of any weight loss program, and cellular RPM plays a significant role in this area. By offering continuous support and tracking, cellular RPM scales help patients not only achieve their initial weight loss goals but also maintain their progress over time. Regular monitoring after the conclusion of a formal weight loss program ensures that patients remain accountable and can quickly address any concerns that could lead to regaining weight.

“Smart Meter understands that weight loss can be a key to improved outcomes for a large majority of chronic disease patients,“ said Casey Pittock, Smart Meter CEO. “Our cellular iScales make it easy for the patient to weigh themselves and easy for their provider to track progress in real time. In combination with a weight loss program, cellular RPM scales, like the iScale, can help patients achieve health goals and improve their quality of life.”

To learn more about how iScale can benefit weight loss programs, contact Smart Meter via our web form.

About Smart Meter, LLC
Smart Meter is the trusted supplier of cellular Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) and Chronic Care Management (CCM) solutions. We empower a nationwide network of SmartPartners™ who are working directly with healthcare providers to transform patient care. Millions of vital health data readings are reliably delivered across our platform every day to enable real-time, better-informed health care. Our proprietary patient-friendly, cellular FDA-registered monitoring devices are connected to an exclusive AT&T 4/5G private data network to ensure an engaging patient experience for improved adherence. For more information, visit www.SmartMeterRPM.com

1 - Digital health tracking tools help individuals lose weight, study finds | News Center | Stanford Medicine

Health Systems Embracing Remote Patient Monitoring Report Positive Return On Investment, Both Financial And Clinical

Remarkable 50% Increase Over 3 Years in the Number of Healthcare Executives Stating that RPM Generates Positive ROI

Smart Meter, the leading supplier of Cellular Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)^™ solutions, has noted a marked increase in the number of large health systems utilizing RPM. The innovative technology company understands the need for healthcare systems to justify the investment in a remote patient monitoring program. Sometimes these organizations can get overwhelmed when only considering costs, but there are many factors that provide a true picture of the ROI of RPM.

There can be both short-and long-term ROI gained from RPM because RPM can help lower costs, produce revenue, and improve patient outcomes by providing instant data to help make real-time care decisions. Knowing how RPM affects finances can help healthcare providers make better decisions and improve their organization’s effectiveness.

$27,000 or more Per Patient Cost Savings using RPM
Brockton Hospital in Massachusetts began using a remote care program to track 25 to 30 Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) patients and was hoping to reduce its 30-day readmission rates to less than 25%. The reduction meant that no more than eight patients could be readmitted. The outcomes vastly exceeded the objective. Readmissions were reduced to zero, with no patients who were enrolled in the study were readmitted to the hospital. Zero readmissions represented a significant decrease in total medical expenses. The cost of a 30-day hospitalization is $27,000 per patient, so Brockton achieved a cost avoidance savings of $216,000.12.¹

$1,300 or more Per Patient Per Year in New Revenue using RPM

Any practice, health system or healthcare organization with a National Provider Identifier (NPI) number can bill the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for reimbursement of services using certain CPT codes that are specifically for RPM. This can provide new revenue of more than $1,300² per patient per year when the claims are filed appropriately. Smart Meter has developed an RPM Calculator for healthcare professionals to see how much revenue they could be generating by billing CMS for RPM services utilizing these CPT codes. RPM Revenue Calculator - Smart Meter (smartmeterrpm.com)

The use of RPM continues to grow rapidly and with that comes the increased knowledge to manage the programs in more efficient ways, leading to better ROI and more patients benefiting and improving because of the program. Earlier this year, Sage Growth Partners surveyed 141 healthcare executives and 90% said an RPM program has yielded a positive ROI. And respondents also said that proven implementation processes deliver predictable, low-risk methods for starting a program, with 90% of them using an external partner for RPM and CCM. In comparison, in a similar Sage Growth Partners survey from three years ago, only 60 percent of medical practice physicians and managers said RPM had a high return on investment.

“When considering an RPM program, healthcare organizations should investigate all the challenges and benefits,” said Smart Meter CEO Casey Pittock. “Once they do that, we feel confident they will see how the benefits of RPM, both financially and clinically, can provide a positive ROI. Smart Meter currently supplies hundreds of RPM and CCM companies with the data, devices, and services to help them deliver a positive ROI for their healthcare customers who are embracing RPM.”

A1c Reduced by 2.8% for Improved Patient Outcomes
In addition to financial returns, RPM also provides clinical returns that lead to fewer hospital readmissions and reduction in overall healthcare costs. In a Howard University study of patients with diabetes using the iGlucose®, 70% of high-risk participants lowered their A1c by an average of 2.8% within 90 days³.

A 30-day study by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences of 59 pregnant women with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, who frequently tested with Smart Meter’s cellular-enabled iGlucose® glucometer showed an increased satisfaction with their diabetes management. Eighty-six percent of participants noted that the automatic transmission of blood glucose results to their physician helped them better maintain their condition. Participants who used the iGlucose glucose meter demonstrated increased positive appraisal of diabetes and general life satisfaction

Baum Consulting Services implemented an RPM program using Smart Meter’s cellular devices and saw excellent results. One of the highlights of the program included a male patient in his 70s with hypertension, who, after two out-of-range blood pressure readings had adjustments made to his medication was able to avoid an emergency room visit. Another patient with diabetes had an A1c of 10.4 before starting the program but was able to reduce that to 6.6 in about a year and a half.

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, embracing innovative technologies like RPM will be crucial for improving patient care and operational efficiency. By investing in RPM, healthcare organizations and practitioners can stay ahead of the curve, delivering high-quality care in an increasingly digital world.

1 – https://www.ehidc.org/sites/default/files/resources/files/ROIPGHD_7.26.18_final.pdf

2 - Based on the average of current reimbursement rates for CPT 99453 ($18.77), CPT99454 ($62.44), and CPT 99457 ($51.61).

3 - The Benefits of Remote Monitoring of Real Time Blood Glucose Data Using iGlucose System in Managing Patients with Diabetes, Howard University Diabetes Center.

Smart Meter Unveils Groundbreaking Multi-Cuff Blood Pressure Monitor for Remote Patient Monitoring and Chronic Care Management

Revolutionary Cellular RPM™ Device Sets New Standard in Patient Care with Enhanced Accuracy and Remote Monitoring Capabilities

Smart Meter, the leading supplier of Cellular Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)^™ solutions, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest innovative product: the first cellular-connected, multi-cuff blood pressure monitor specifically designed for RPM and chronic care management (CCM). This cutting-edge device is set to transform the landscape of patient care by delivering unparalleled accuracy, inclusivity, and access to comprehensive health insights for the 129 million Americans living with a chronic illness.

In response to the growing demand for effective RPM solutions, Smart Meter has engineered a multi-cuff blood pressure monitor that addresses the limitations of traditional single-cuff devices. The new iBloodPressure Classic Multi Cuff Monitor is a revolutionary monitor designed to provide healthcare professionals with a more detailed and accurate understanding of a patient’s blood pressure trends over time, essential for managing chronic conditions and optimizing care strategies.

These three different cuff sizes are designed to comfortably fit arms from 8.6 to 20.5 inches in diameter, an impressive 11.9-inch range, setting the benchmark for inclusive in-home blood pressure monitoring. This ensures that patients with arms that are a variety of sizes can easily position the cuff correctly, which is essential for the reading to be as accurate as possible.

According to American Heart Association research¹, having an appropriate cuff size is imperative for best results. In addition, the research revealed:

Using a one cuff size-fits-all approach when measuring blood pressure may lead to striking inaccuracies in blood pressure measurement and diagnosis, according to a new study.
Inaccurate readings due to wrong cuff size were particularly evident in people with obesity, who require large or extra-large cuff sizes for accurate blood pressure readings.
It is important for health care professionals and the public to recognize the importance of cuff size for office, kiosk and home blood pressure measurement.

Key Features of the Multi-Cuff Blood Pressure Monitor:

Multi-Cuff Technology: Unlike conventional monitors that rely on a single cuff, Smart Meter's device includes three cuffs of varying sizes to accommodate a broader range of patients. This feature ensures accurate readings across different arm sizes and conditions, enhancing the monitor's versatility and reliability.
Enhanced Accuracy and Precision: The advanced technology behind the multi-cuff system ensures that readings are more precise, reducing the likelihood of errors caused by ill-fitting cuffs or incorrect positioning. This improved accuracy is crucial for effective hypertension management and treatment planning.
Remote Monitoring Capabilities: Integrated with state-of-the-art cellular connectivity, the monitor allows for seamless remote patient monitoring. Patients can easily transmit their blood pressure data to their healthcare providers in real-time, facilitating timely interventions and personalized care adjustments.
User-Friendly Interface: The device is equipped with an intuitive one-button interface, making it easy for patients to take their readings. The clear and straightforward design ensures that users of all ages can manage their blood pressure monitoring with confidence, and its ease-of-use can help support patient engagement and adherence, leading to improved health outcomes.
Comprehensive Data Analytics: The monitor facilitates easy reporting and trends, offering healthcare providers valuable insights into a patient’s blood pressure patterns. This real-time, accurate data supports more informed decision-making and enhances the management of chronic conditions such as hypertension and heart disease.
Secure Data Transmission: Patient data is transmitted securely using advanced encryption protocols on the nation’s only private RPM data network, ensuring that sensitive information remains confidential and protected against unauthorized access.

Transforming Chronic Care Management

The introduction of this multi-cuff blood pressure monitor represents a significant advancement in chronic care management. By enabling more accurate measurements and facilitating remote monitoring, the device empowers healthcare providers to offer more personalized and effective care. Patients benefit from a more accurate assessment of their health status, leading to better management of their conditions and improved overall outcomes.

“Accurate transmission of a patient’s blood pressure is crucial for healthcare providers to track trends and make care plan adjustments when needed,” said Smart Meter CEO Casey Pittock. “We listened carefully to our customers who serve tens of thousands of providers to develop this new version of our iBloodPressure Classic monitor that is now compatible with three different cuff sizes. These new cuff sizes will not only help a broader range of patients but also help improve the accuracy of those readings.”

Availability and Future Developments

The multi-cuff blood pressure monitor is now available for purchase through Smart Meter’s nationwide network of authorized SmartPartners. The company is committed to continuing its innovation in healthcare technology, with plans to further enhance its product lineup and expand its offerings in remote patient monitoring and chronic care management.

For more information about the multi-cuff blood pressure monitor and other Smart Meter products, visit http://www.smartmeterrpm.com.

1 - Study finds blood pressure cuff size matters, affects blood pressure readings | American Heart Association

Only 6.3% Of People With Diabetes Rely On Continuous Glucose Monitors For Diabetes Management, Possibly Due To High Costs And Accuracy Concerns

Although continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) continue to be promoted as an innovative tool for diabetes management, overall adoption is low because there are several issues with these devices that make it difficult for patients and providers. These issues are detailed in a new, in-depth blog by Smart Meter, the leading supplier of Cellular Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)^™ solutions.

The first and foremost issue is the cost of using a CGM, which not only includes the initial setup of as much as $1,200, but ongoing fees that can be up to $300 a month. This presents a large barrier to many people with diabetes who cannot afford that kind of out-of-pocket expense.

“While CGMs have been widely commercialized, they are simply not attainable for a large number of people with diabetes,” said Casey Pittock, Smart Meter CEO. “In addition, the enormous amount of publicity that weight-loss drugs have received has complicated the CGM market, slowing demand. These two factors are leading more and more physicians to prescribe glucose monitors that use a small drop of blood to measure the patient’s current glucose level.”

Another major problem with CGMs is disconnection issues because they rely on Bluetooth, WiFi, and a smartphone to send the reading. When one of these connections is lost, patients, the supplier of the device, and sometimes the physician’s office, must spend time pairing, synching or troubleshooting to regain the connection. This leads to missed readings and lost data that is critical to diabetes management.

There is also concern about the accuracy of CGMs. One reason for inaccuracy with CGM readings could be how they measure glucose. With traditional blood glucose monitoring, patients are measuring the amount of glucose that is present in their blood at that exact moment in time. In contrast, CGM devices pierce the top layer of skin and measures glucose in the interstitial fluid and not actual blood, which is not as accurate. CGMs may also require periodic calibration with traditional blood glucose meters. For example, an Abbott press release about Libre Rio, an over-the-counter CGM, states "if readings do not match symptoms or expectations, use a fingerstick value from a blood glucose meter for treatment decisions."

One study¹ found that while CGM devices may lead to improved glycemic control in patients with diabetes, there were many issues with the technology, which often led to patient dissatisfaction and discontinued use. Among the top reasons cited was varying levels of accuracy between sensors, particularly on the first and last day of wear. This led to 59% of participants stopping use of their CGM device for at least one month. Another 32% of users continued to test their blood sugar using traditional blood glucose monitoring six or more times a week, to ensure they were getting accurate blood glucose readings.

“These critical issues can lead to uncertainty, frustration and lack of adherence to testing protocols among patients,” Pittock said. “Smart Meter’s iGlucose Plus meets the highest standards for accuracy and as soon as the patient tests, the result is sent immediately to a provider or healthcare organization.”

CGMs are only used by about 6.3 percent of the 34 million Americans with diabetes, but it’s important to understand this complex technology. To help educate patients and healthcare providers on CGM devices as a treatment for the management of diabetes, Smart Meter has created this important blog, which can be read in its entirety here: Challenges With Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Connectivity, Costs, and Usability - Smart Meter (smartmeterrpm.com)

1 - Perceptions of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems in the T1D Exchange Diabetes Registry: Satisfaction, Concerns, and Areas for Future Improvement - PMC (nih.gov)

Smart Meter Launches Innovative Healthcare Technology Marketplace for Better Patient Support

Smart Meter, the leading supplier of Cellular Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)^™ solutions, has launched the industry’s first user-friendly ordering experience that transforms the way RPM vendors and healthcare organizations purchase RPM products and services. Based on input from more than 500 customers across the US healthcare ecosystem, Smart Meter has built the Smart Solutions Platform (SSP) Marketplace to provide a seamless customer experience for delivering RPM products and services directly to patients for immediate health monitoring.

The SSP Marketplace is an intuitive image-driven system, making it easier for customers to select their desired RPM product, enroll in monthly services—such as the SmartTouch™ device use optimization program—and pay via credit card to ensure timely processing of the order. Existing customers entering the SSP Marketplace will see their familiar SKUs and photos of devices that are specific to their organization.

When new customers utilize the SSP Marketplace, they will be able to initiate and sign a contract, select products and monthly services, and make a payment in a matter of minutes. By using the new system, a new customer can reduce the number of touches it takes to place their first order and be providing their healthcare clients and patients with clinically validated cellular RPM solutions faster by shipping directly to the patient’s home.

“Smart Meter is committed to making it easy for any type of healthcare vendor or provider to do business with us and the new SSP Marketplace is a great example of that, “said Casey Pittock, Smart Meter CEO. “With this new ordering experience—combined with our world-class logistics and the industry’s only private data network for cellular connectivity—our customers can now provide an even more compelling service for their providers and their patients by quickly selecting the vital RPM solutions needed to monitor health conditions.”

The products available in the SSP Marketplace include the complete line of proprietary cellular Smart Meter devices. Some of these are the iGlucose Plus®, the most accurate blood glucose meter available; the iBloodPressure Classic® and iBloodPressure Pro®, available in multiple cuff sizes; the iScale® and iScale Plus®, supporting bariatric patients up to 551 pounds; the iPulseOx®, Smart Meter’s patented cellular-enabled pulse oximeter; all accessories and supplies such as iGlucose test strips; the SmartTouch device use optimization service; and available customer packaging options.

Complimentary monthly services for all customers include Tier 1 customer support, Tier 2 technical support, dedicated Client Success Manager, 4g/5g private data network for cellular connectivity, Device Management Self Service Portal access, shipping and handling, API key and documentation, performance reports and device use analytics, and marketing assets and promotional resources.

Fifty-Five Percent of Hypertension Patients Said They Have Issues Sending Results from Bluetooth®-Connected Blood Pressure Monitors

The number of people in the U.S. with hypertension continues to rise and so does the use of remote patient monitoring (RPM) devices to track the progress and manage the care of hypertensive patients and those with other chronic conditions. A majority of patients, however, have issues sending their readings to a healthcare professional when using remote monitoring systems that require Bluetooth^®-connected devices, apps, and hubs.

Only about 25% of people with hypertension have their condition under control, according to the Centers for Disease Control¹ and the Mayo Clinic lists home monitoring as a key factor in helping patients control their blood pressure. In the 2024 National Hypertension Survey, 55% of respondents said they have some type of issue sending their reading when using a Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure monitor. And 30% said they always have an issue, which is a significant increase from the 8% in the 2023 National Hypertension Survey. The problems and frustrations experienced by patients due to Bluetooth connectivity can adversely impact regular testing and the transmission of vital sign data to the care team.

“Providing hypertension patients with the ability to self-monitor and for the vital sign reading to be sent to their provider is a crucial step in helping them control their disease,” said Dr. Bill Lewis, a member of the CHQI Telemedicine Standards and Medical Advisory Board and Chair of the Telemedicine Accreditation Committee. “With a cellular remote patient monitoring system, there are no Bluetooth connections, hubs, or apps, making it easier for patients to take their vital signs and know their test results are being viewed and tracked regularly.”

Smart Meter, a leading supplier of cellular-enabled RPM solutions, verified the challenges with Bluetooth RPM. “We manage a quarter of a million patients every day for our customers with our cellular RPM solutions and private data network and we believe that more than half of these switched from Bluetooth-connected RPM devices and hubs to Cellular-connected RPM, which requires no hub,” said Casey Pittock, CEO of Smart Meter and a member of the AT&T Healthcare Executive Advisory Council. “There has been a noticeable uptick in the number of providers and RPM companies moving away from Bluetooth hubs and devices to our patient-friendly cellular RPM devices which require no hub, app, or smartphone.”

In addition to Smart Meter’s proprietary cellular-connected iBloodPressure^® systems for hypertension and other Cellular RPM™ solutions for diabetes and weight monitoring, the company provides one of the most secure and reliable platforms for transmitting vital signs to healthcare professionals. The company, in collaboration with AT&T, created the first RPM Private Data Network (RPND), purpose built for the unique challenge of transmitting large amounts of patient-generated health data.

The RPND incorporates multiple layers of encryption for data generated from Smart Meter proprietary devices that will only connect and transmit through this private network – the data never touches the public internet. This ensures that vital signs are reliably and securely delivered every time. In 2023, the Smart Meter platform managed 1.93 billion records, delivering patient-generated vital signs to healthcare professionals across the U.S. The platform has now achieved an impressive six years of 100% uptime, supporting an average delivery time of 86 milliseconds.

According to Mr. Pittock, “With the unmatched reliability and flexibility of our purpose-built Cellular RPM devices and Private Data Network, our SmartPartners are assured of the most dependable and secure healthcare information in the RPM industry. Our customers don’t have to allocate resources to solve the technical problems and service headaches that arise when Bluetooth devices or hubs disconnect – which happens for at least 55% of Bluetooth users according to this recent national hypertension survey. The results show that Cellular RPM wins every time.”

About Smart Meter, LLC
Smart Meter is the number one trusted supplier of cellular Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) solutions. We empower a nationwide network of SmartPartners^TM who are working directly with healthcare providers to transform patient care. Millions of vital health data readings are reliably delivered across our platform to enable real-time, better-informed health care. Our proprietary patient-friendly, cellular FDA-registered monitoring devices are connected to an exclusive AT&T 4/5G private data network to ensure an engaging patient experience for improved adherence. For more information, visit SmartMeterRPM.com

¹Facts About Hypertension | cdc.gov