Bluetooth Special Interest Group enables wireless glucose monitor development

KIRKLAND, Wash. — The Bluetooth Special Interest Group recently adopted the continuousglucose monitoring profile, developed by the Medical Device Working Group, to standardize data collection, measurement and delivery for Bluetooth Smart glucose monitors. Bluetooth Smart brings convenience to medical devices while empowering patients and medical providers alike with accurate pictures of activity, health — and in this case — blood sugar levels, the company said.

 

“Bluetooth wireless technology, led by Bluetooth Smart, makes it possible for developers and OEMS to build wireless wearable devices – watches, glasses, fitness trackers – that work reliably with the products consumers already own,” said Errett Kroeter, senior marketing director for the Bluetooth SIG. “We are seeing this same market enablement start to play out in the medical industry, thanks to the flexibility, interoperability and global accessibility of Bluetooth Smart. The CGM profile is just the tip of the iceberg.”

 

Accurate testing and monitoring is an essential element in managing and treating, not only diabetes, but most medical issues. Bluetooth Smart enabled sensors can give patients and medical providers a more accurate, full-picture look at the body’s response to a prescribed treatment plan, delivering information in real time. This potential will lead to connectivity growth in the medical industry in the coming years, Bluetooth SIG noted.

 

“Devices in health and wellness monitoring applications are projected to grow from 2.9 million in 2013 to 17.1 million in 2018,” said Lee Ratliff, principal analyst, connectivity and IoT for IHS Technology. “Of total health and wellness devices, 851,000 were Bluetooth Smart enabled in 2013; this figure is projected to reach 13.2 million annually by 2018.”