Medical supplies abstract
A method and system for determining need for additional medical
supplies includes receiving a test result from a remote computing
device. The method and system also include updating a supply counter
based on receiving the test result and determining if the supply
counter exceeds a limit. The method and system further include triggering
a process to reorder supplies when the supply counter exceeds the
limit. A system for remote physiological parameter monitoring is
also disclosed, and includes a remote computing system and a local
computing system. The remote computing system tests the physiological
parameter of the ambulatory patient. The local computing system
receives the physiological parameter from the remote computing system
through a communication network. The local computing system tracks
the physiological parameter of the ambulatory patient, and if the
physiological parameter is outside certain parameters, the local
computing system alerts a caregiver such that the caregiver can
contact the ambulatory patient.
Medical supplies claims
1. A computerized method for determining need for additional medical
supplies, the method comprising: receiving a test result from a
remote computing device; updating a supply counter based on receiving
the test result; determining if the supply counter exceeds a limit;
and triggering a process to reorder supplies when the supply counter
exceeds the limit.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving a test result from a
remote computing device comprises receiving a blood sugar test result
from a remote computing device.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein triggering a process to reorder
supplies comprises triggering a process to reorder glucose test
strips.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein triggering a process to reorder
supplies comprises triggering a process to reorder lancets.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving a test result from a
remote computing device comprises receiving a cholesterol test result
from a remote computer device.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein triggering a process to reorder
supplies comprises triggering a process to reorder at least one
cholesterol blood test kit.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein triggering includes triggering
a process to order a quantity of supplies greater than or equal
to the limit.
8. The method of claim 1 further comprising setting the supply
counter at an initial value.
9. The method of claim 1 wherein triggering is accomplished by
a local computing device that is distant from the remote computing
device.
10. The method of claim 1 wherein triggering prompts a user before
reordering supplies.
11. The method of claim 1 wherein triggering directly initiates
reordering supplies and a billing process.
12. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving an increment
value from the remote computing device, and wherein the act of updating
the supply counter comprises adding the increment value to the supply
counter.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein the limit is determined based
at least upon a quantity of the supplies that are reordered.
14. A system for determining if additional medical supplies are
necessary, the system comprising: a receive module that receives
a test result from a remote computing device; an update module that
updates a supply counter based on receiving the test result; a determination
module that determines if the supply counter exceeds a limit; and
a trigger module that if the supply counter exceeds the limit, triggers
a process to reorder the supplies.
15. The system of claim 14 further comprising a set module that
sets the supply counter at an initial value.
16. The system of claim 14 wherein the receive module receives
a glucose blood test result.
17. The system of claim 14 wherein the trigger module triggers
a process to reorder glucose test strips.
18. The system of claim 14 wherein the receive module receives
a cholesterol test result.
19. The system of claim 14 wherein the trigger module triggers
a process to reorder a cholesterol test.
20. The system of claim 14 wherein the trigger module prompts an
ambulatory patient using the remote computing device prior to reordering
supplies.
21. The system of claim 14 wherein the update module comprises
an up-counter, a down-counter, or an up/down counter.
22. The system of claim 14 wherein the system is distant from the
remote computing system.
23. The system of claim 14, wherein the receive module further
receives an increment value from the remote computing device, and
wherein the update module updates the supply counter by adding the
increment value to the supply counter.
24. The system of claim 14, further comprising a limit establishment
module that determines the limit based at least upon a quantity
of the supplies that are reordered.
25. A system for remotely monitoring glucose levels in an ambulatory
patient, the system comprising: a remote computing system that tests
the glucose level of the ambulatory patient, the remote computing
system including a communication device connected to a communication
network; a local computing system that includes a communication
device connected to the communication network, the local computing
system receiving the glucose level from the remote computing system
through the communication network; wherein the local computing system
tracks the glucose level of the ambulatory patient, and if the glucose
level is outside certain parameters, the local computing system
alerts a caregiver such that the caregiver can contact the ambulatory
patient.
26. The system of claim 25 wherein the local computing system updates
a supply counter upon receiving the glucose level, determines if
the supply counter exceeds a limit, and automatically triggers a
process to reorder glucose test strips if the supply counter exceeds
the limit.
27. The system of claim 27 wherein the local computing system tracks
testing regularity of the ambulatory patient.
28. The system of claim 27 wherein if the glucose level is outside
certain parameters, the local computing system alerts the ambulatory
patient.
29. The system of claim 27 wherein the local system is in two-way
communication with the remote computing system such that the caregiver
can send and receive messages from the ambulatory patient.
30. A system for remotely monitoring a physiological parameter
of an ambulatory patient, the system comprising: a remote computing
system that determines the physiological parameter of the ambulatory
patient using single-use medical supplies, the remote computing
system including a communication device connected to a communication
network; and a local computing system that includes a communication
device connected to the communication network, wherein the local
computing system tracks the physiological parameter of the ambulatory
patient, and if the physiological parameter is outside certain parameters,
the local computing system alerts a caregiver such that the caregiver
can contact the ambulatory patient.
31. The system of claim 30 wherein the local computing system updates
a supply counter upon receiving the physiological parameter, determines
if a supply counter exceeds a limit, and automatically triggers
a process to reorder the single-use medical supplies if the supply
counter exceeds the limit.
32. The system of claim 30 wherein if the system automatically
triggers a process to reorder the single-use medical supplies, the
system prompts the ambulatory patient.
33. The system of claim 30 wherein the local computing system tracks
testing regularity of the ambulatory patient.
34. The system of claim 30 wherein the single use medical supplies
are glucose test strips.
35. The system of claim 30 wherein if the physiological parameter
is outsider certain parameters, the local computing system alerts
the ambulatory patient.
Medical supplies description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
119(e) to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/710,518, filed
Aug. 22, 2005 and entitled "Apparatus and Method For Determining
if Patient Needs Additional Medical Supplies". The entire disclosure
of 60/710,518 is incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to medical monitoring equipment.
More specifically, the invention relates to remote monitoring of
patient health and patient testing supplies.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Millions of people require durable medical equipment supplies
on a regular basis. For example, patients with diabetes must control
their blood sugar or glucose. Most people with diabetes use glucose
meters, or glucometers, to check their blood sugar. To test for
glucose with a typical glucose meter, a small amount of blood is
placed on a disposable test strip and placed in the meter. The test
strips are coated with chemicals (glucose oxidase, dehydrogenase,
or hexokinase) that combine with glucose in the blood. The meter
measures how much glucose is present.
[0004] Other chronic diseases, such as heart disease, require in-home
monitoring of symptoms such as cholesterol. Such monitoring requires
semi-regular usage of durable medical supplies as well. For example,
a patient may need to take a cholesterol test periodically to allow
a caregiver to closely monitor the person's health status. Although
at-home cholesterol test kits are available, each cholesterol test
generally occurs during a visit to a clinic or hospital, requiring
direct caregiver attention.
[0005] Because patients require such single-use durable medical
equipment supplies on a regular basis, they must constantly monitor
their supplies. Patients must then reorder supplies on their own
when needed. For example, a patient with diabetes might use 3 test
strips per day or close to 100 per month. If test strips are packaged
in groups of 100, a patient must reorder supplies on a monthly basis.
[0006] Regular contact with patients is often desirable, as allowing
medical professional caregivers to monitor and manage a patient's
condition reduces hospitalizations by early identification of symptoms,
prevents unnecessary hospitalizations and office visits, and provides
immediate feedback of a patient's status thus allowing medication
and fluid adjustments to be made over the telephone as necessary.
Such contact can be made in person; however, managing patients in
person is expensive, because regular preventative and monitoring
contact takes up a large portion of a medical caregiver's time.
[0007] For the foregoing reasons, it is evident that there exists
a need for a system that addresses the above described needs in
a simple-to-operate and cost effective manner to manage large patient
populations.
SUMMARY
[0008] The present invention is directed to a method and system
for determining need for additional medical supplies. The method
includes receiving a test result from a remote computing device.
The method also includes updating a supply counter based on receiving
the test result. The method also includes determining if the supply
counter exceeds a limit. The method further includes triggering
a process to reorder supplies when the supply counter exceeds the
limit.
[0009] The test results received from the remote computing device
could be from a blood glucose level test, a cholesterol test, or
any other test using similarly disposable, single-use durable medical
supplies.
[0010] The supply counter, in various embodiments of the invention,
updates and stores the number of test results received such that
the method and system described know how many tests have occurred
since supplies were last ordered. This updating can be accomplished
through use of an up-counter, down-counter, or up-down counter depending
on a starting value and selected limit.
[0011] The automatic triggering occurs when the supply counter
exceeds the limit. By exceeds, it is understood that the supply
counter can count up or down toward a selected limit value from
a set starting value.
[0012] The present invention is also directed to a system for remote
physiological parameter monitoring. The system includes a remote
computing system and a local computing system. The remote computing
system tests the physiological parameter of the ambulatory patient.
A physiological parameter, for example, can be a blood glucose level
or cholesterol level, but is intended to encompass any and all health
test results capable of communication to a local system. The remote
computing system also includes a communication device connected
to a communication network. The local computing system includes
a communication device connected to the communication network. The
local computing system receives the physiological parameter from
the remote computing system through the communication network. The
local computing system tracks the physiological parameter of the
ambulatory patient, and if the physiological parameter is outside
certain parameters, the local computing system alerts a caregiver
such that the caregiver can contact the ambulatory patient.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a system for determining if a patient
needs additional medical supplies;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a system for remotely monitoring
physiological parameters;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a system for remote physiological
parameter monitoring;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a local computing system for
remote physiological parameter monitoring according to a possible
embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a remote computing system according
to a possible embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a remote computing system according
to another possible embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a remote computing system according
to another possible embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a flowchart for usage of a remote computing system
according to a possible embodiment;
[0021] FIGS. 9A-9E illustrate several embodiments of the structure
of the remote computing system;
[0022] FIG. 10 illustrates the structure of a remote computing
system with a support member in accordance with a possible embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 11 illustrates the structure of a remote computing
system with a support member in accordance with a possible embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 12 illustrates a sectional view of an electronic scale
in accordance with a possible embodiment of the invention; and
[0025] FIG. 13 illustrates a top plate of the electronic scale
in accordance with a possible embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] In general terms the present disclosure relates to monitoring
or measuring physiological parameters, such as a patient's glucose
level, through a remote apparatus. In addition, the need to reorder
single-use medical supplies can be determined. For example, each
time a patient's glucose level is measured, the patient used a test
strip and inserted it into the apparatus for measuring. Such insertion
necessarily indicates that the patient has used a test strip. After
a number of insertions of the test strip, it can be determined that
the patient is running low on test strips.
[0027] The embodiments described herein are preferably implemented
as a medical apparatus, system and method capable of monitoring
wellness parameters and physiological data of ambulatory patients
and transmitting such parameters and data from the monitoring device
residing at a remote location to a local location. At the local
location a medical professional caregiver or logic system can remotely
monitor the patient's condition and provide medical treatment as
may be necessary.
[0028] Preferably, the remote computing system incorporates transducing
devices for converting the desired measured parameters into electrical
signals capable of being processed by a computing system or microprocessor
system. The device remotely interacts with the ambulatory patient
and then transmits the measured parameters to a computer located
at a local site. At the local location the various indicia of the
ambulatory patient's condition are monitored and analyzed. To provide
the ambulatory patient with an added level of convenience and ease
of use, such monitoring device can be contained in a single integrated
package. Communication is established between the remote monitoring
apparatus and a local computer via a modem or other electronic communication
devices that are generally well known commercially available products.
At the local location, the patient's condition is analyzed based
on the information communicated (e.g. wellness parameters and physiological
data) and can provoke medical treatment in accordance with such
information.
[0029] Patients suffering from chronic diseases, such as diabetes,
can undergo drug therapy and lifestyle changes to manage their medical
condition. In such patients, the medical professional caregiver
monitors certain physiological parameters such as blood glucose
level. Patients will also benefit from daily reminders to take medications
(improving compliance) and/or perform some type of exercise. With
the information received from the monitoring device, the medical
professional caregiver can track the patient's test history and
determine the effectiveness of any drug therapy, the patient's condition,
whether the patient's condition is improving or whether the patient
requires hospitalization or an office consultation to prevent the
condition from getting worse.
[0030] Referring now to FIG. 1, a flowchart of a system 100 for
determining if a patient needs additional medical supplies is shown
according to a possible aspect of the present disclosure. The logical
flow begins at start point 102. A set module 104 sets the supply
counter X to an initial value. In the embodiment as shown, the supply
counter X is set to equal zero. A receive module 106 receives a
test result. An update module 108 increments or decrements the supply
counter toward a preset limit Y, depending on the particular implementation
of the counter and module. For example, the counter could count
up toward a preset "ceiling" value, or count down toward
a preset "floor" value.
[0031] A determination operation 110 determines if X has exceeded
the limit set by Y. Y can be the predetermined level at which reordering
takes place. If the determination operation 110 determines that
X has not exceeded Y, then logical flow branches "NO"
to the receive module 106. If the determination operation 110 determines
that X has exceeded Y, then logical flow branches "YES"
to a trigger module 112. The trigger module 112 triggers reordering
the supplies. Logical flow ends at 114.
[0032] The trigger module 112 could automatically order supplies,
have them shipped to the patient, and bill the patient's account
for such service. Alternatively, the trigger module 112 could prompt
the user to confirm that the user wishes to reorder the supplies.
This might ensure that the patient actually needs additional supplies.
It is possible that the trigger system could reverse the counter
X by some amount, for example, 10 and then after 10 more test results
are received the trigger module 112 would prompt the patient again.
Other alternative arrangements could also be used.
[0033] The logical flow of FIG. 1 can best be understood by an
application example. Using the example of a patient with diabetes,
logical flow begins at start point 102. The set module sets the
test strip counter X to zero test strips. The receive module 106
receives a glucose test from the apparatus 10 indicating that the
patient has used a test strip. The update module 108 increments
the test strip counter to 1. If Y equals 75, the determination operation
110 determines that 1 is not greater than 75, and operational flow
branches "NO" to the receive module 106. This process
continues until the 76th test result is received by the receive
module 106. The update module 108 would set X to 76. The determination
operation 110 determines that 76 is greater than 75, and operational
flow branches "YES" to the trigger module 112. The trigger
module 112 triggers a supply order and operational flow ends at
114. It is noted that this process could repeat indefinitely. Each
time the logical flow repeats, the set module 104 would reset X
to zero. Alternately, upon ordering a given number of supplies that
given number can be added to Y, which would then represent a total
number of tests completed.
[0034] The logic described above could be used for any supply ordering
and reordering using the example descriptions described herein.
[0035] Referring now to FIG. 2, a block diagram of a system 200
for remote physiological parameter monitoring is shown according
to a possible embodiment. System 200 incorporates a remote site
202 and a local site 204. The remote site 202 includes a remote
computing system, such as remote monitoring device 206. The remote
computing system is described in more detail in conjunction with
FIGS. 5-7 below. The local site 204 includes a local computing system
208.
[0036] The local computing system 208 can be the system that performs
the operations and/or contains the modules associated with FIG.
1. The local computer system can be any of a number of different
computing systems, one such embodiment described below in conjunction
with FIG. 4. The local computing system 208 and remote computing
system, such as remote monitoring device 206, are operatively connected
by a communication network 210, the communication network 210 being
any type of communication network such as the telephone network,
wide area network or Internet.
[0037] Referring now to FIG. 3, a block diagram of a remote computing
system 300 for measuring physiological parameters is shown according
to a possible embodiment of the present disclosure. The remote computing
system 300 includes a remote monitoring device 302. The remote monitoring
device 302 can be any of a number of communicative monitoring devices,
examples of which can be seen in FIGS. 5-7. The system also has
a variety of peripheral devices for measurement of physical parameters.
In the embodiment shown, a glucometer 304, a blood pressure cuff
306, a peak flow meter 308, and a pulse oximeter 310 are operatively
connected to the remote monitoring device. Either the peripheral
device or the remote monitoring device 302 have the ability to transduce
the physiological parameter as measured into an electrical signal
for communication to a local computing system as described below.
[0038] In one embodiment of the disclosure, namely for diabetic
patients, the physiological parameter monitored is the patient's
blood glucose level. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled
in the art that the physiological parameters can include blood pressure,
EKG, temperature, urine output, and any other. Further, the weight
of a patient can be measured, as described in the embodiments below.
[0039] One or more of the peripheral devices 304-310 can be operatively
disconnected from the remote monitoring device 302 either by unplugging
a cable or disabling wireless communications. If a given device
is functional while detached from the remote monitoring device 302,
it stores the measurements of the given physiological parameter
from a given test and transmits it to the remote monitoring device
302 when reconnected by attachment of a cable or enabling of a wireless
communications conduit.
[0040] Similar to that discussed above, glucose levels of a patient
with diabetes can be monitored. The patient can insert a test strip,
having a small amount of blood, into the glucometer 304. The glucometer
304 can measure the glucose level in the blood and transmit that
information through a communication device incorporated into the
remote monitoring device 302. The glucose level can be transmitted
over a communication network such as the one discussed in conjunction
with FIG. 2 to a local computing device. The local computing device
can store, track, and monitor the glucose levels of the patient.
If the glucose level is abnormal, a caregiver can be notified.
[0041] Because diabetic patients generally test blood glucose levels
more than once daily, a caregiver has at least daily access to blood
glucose test results by use of such a system. This allows the caregiver
to intervene sooner and prevent development of serious health issues
than would be possible with only medical office or clinic visits.
[0042] Now referring to FIG. 4, a diagram of a local computing
system 400 for monitoring of physiological parameters is shown according
to a possible embodiment. In this embodiment, a local computer system
400 is located at a distance from a remote computing system, such
as the one shown in FIGS. 5-7. The local computer system 400 can
be used to enter and update a medical professional caregiver's (e.g.,
a physician) and a patient's records; monitor patient status; issue
exception reports; and issue trend reports. The local computing
system generally includes one or more processors 402, random access
memory (RAM) 404, a data storage system 406 including one or more
data storage devices (e.g., hard, floppy and/or CD-ROM disk drives,
etc.), data communications devices 408 (e.g., modems, network interfaces,
etc.), monitor 410 (e.g., CRT, LCD display, etc.), mouse pointing
device 412 and keyboard 414. It is envisioned that the local computing
system 400 can be interfaced with other devices, such as read-only
memory (ROM), video card, bus interface, speakers, printers, or
any other device adapted and configured to interface with the local
computing system 400 that is capable of providing an output from
the system. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any combination
of the above components or any number of different components, peripherals
and other devices can be used with the computing system. For example,
the system 400 can include an 8 channel MODEM; CD-ROM Back-up: CD-ReWritable,
CD-Recordable Drive; and a 17 inch monitor. Those skilled in the
art will also appreciate that remote computing devices, such as
those described above in conjunction with FIGS. 5-7, will generally
have a similar hardware implementation as the local computing system
and will be able to communicate with it according to a common interface.
[0043] The local computing system can include one or more data
communications devices 408 allowing it to communicatively connect
to multiple remote monitoring devices, such as the remote computing
systems discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 5-7. For example, the
local computing system can be provided with a multi-channel modem
that allows connection to multiple remote monitoring devices for
purposes of downloading physiological parameter information. In
one embodiment, a local computing system 400 can be provided with
an 8 channel MODEM that allows up to eight patient remote computing
systems to simultaneously access and transmit physiological parameter
information to the local computing system.
[0044] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the CD-ROM
Back-up: CD-ReWritable, CD-Recordable Drive automatically stores
a duplicate (back-up) copy of all patient and medical professional
caregiver (e.g., physician) data on a compact disc (CD) each night.
The CD can store approximately one year of patient data. A new CD
should be installed each year. The used CD should be labeled and
stored for future reference. In accordance with the principles of
this disclosure, a database of patient and medical professional
caregiver (e.g., physician) data is updated, maintained and managed
by the central computer system.
[0045] The local computing system 400 can include a local operating
system 416 and one or more programs 418 resident in local memory
404 or on data storage devices 406. This software can facilitate
the storage of received physiological parameter information from
the remote computing systems as measured by, for example, peripheral
devices described in conjunction with FIG. 3.
[0046] Because certain physiological parameters require testing
using single-use medical equipment supplies, the amount of supplies
on hand by the patient can be tracked by the local computing system
400. For example, in the above example of the patient with diabetes,
each time the glucose level is transmitted to the local computing
system, the local computing system 400 can track that one test strip
has been used. After a certain number of transmissions of the blood
glucose test, the local computing system 400 can order new supplies
for the patient.
[0047] For example, if the patient begins with 100 test strips,
after approximately 75 tests have been transmitted to the local
computing system 400, the local computing system 400 can order another
100 test strips to be sent to the patient. As such, the reordering
of the medical supplies can become automated such that the patient
does not run out of supplies. This can be accomplished using the
method and system described herein. Such an automated system and
method is convenient for the patient, as it alleviates the need
for the patient to monitor his supply level. The ordering process
can be automated along with the billing for such supplies.
[0048] Furthermore, a health professional or other caregiver can
use the system 400 to readily determine the regularity with which
patients are testing their physiological parameters. By examining
stored records, a caregiver may choose to contact a patient to encourage
more or less testing as appropriate. Alternately, the local computing
system 400 could create an alert for the caregiver pointing out
the abnormality in testing procedures. Further, the system 400 could
send a message directly to the remote computing system such that
the patient is notified of a need to alter their testing habits
or procedure without the need for caregiver intervention. To aid
in illustrating such functionality, the following example is instructive.
[0049] Continuing with the example of blood glucose tests, a caregiver
has a month of stored glucose testing results on the local computing
device. The caregiver sees that the patient has only 15 test results,
or sees that a new order of test strips has not been placed in an
abnormally long period of time. The caregiver can contact the patient,
or the local computing system can be set to contact the caregiver
and/or patient once a certain testing regularity is not followed.
[0050] Referring now to FIG. 5, a block diagram of a remote computing
system 500 for remote physiological parameter monitoring is shown
according to a possible embodiment. The system 500 includes microprocessor
system 502 including a CPU 504, a memory 506, an optional input/output
(I/O) controller 508 and a bus controller 510 as illustrated. It
will be appreciated that the microprocessor system 502 is available
in a wide variety of configurations and is based on CPU chips such
as the Intel, Motorola or Microchip PIC family of microprocessors
or microcontrollers.
[0051] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
the remote computing system requires an electrical power source
512 to operate. As such, the remote computing system can be powered
by: ordinary household A/C line power, DC batteries or rechargeable
batteries. Power source 512 provides electrical power to the housing
for operating the electronic devices. A power source 512 for operating
a physiological parameter detector 514 is generated within the housing,
however those skilled in the art will recognize that a separate
power supply can be provided or the power source 512 can be adapted
to provide the proper voltage or current for operating the detector
514.
[0052] The remote computing system 500 includes a microprocessor
system 502, operatively connected to an electronic receiver/transmitter
communication device such as a modem 516, an input device 518 and
an output device 520. The modem 516 is operatively coupled to the
microprocessor system 502 via the electronic bus 522, and to a local
computing system 524 via a communication network 526 and modem 528.
The communication network 526 can be any communication network such
as the telephone network, wide area network or Internet. It will
be appreciated that the modem 516 is a generally well known commercially
available product available in a variety of configurations operating
at a variety of BAUD rates. In one embodiment of the present disclosure
the modem 516 is asynchronous, operates at 2400 BAUD or higher and
is readily available off-the-shelf from companies such as Rockwell
or Silicon Systems Inc. (SSI).
[0053] The physiological parameter detector 514 can measure any
of a wide range of physiological parameters including blood glucose
level, cholesterol level, lung capacity, heart rate, or weight.
One or more such physiological detectors 514 can be interfaced to
the system, such as a glucometer, scale, or other detector. If the
detector 514 produces a transduced analog signal, an analog-to-digital
converter 515 can be used to translate the signal to a digital signal
recognizable by the bus controller 510 and processing unit 504 such
that it can be transmitted on the communication network 526 via
the modem 516.
[0054] It will be appreciated that output device(s) 520 can be
interfaced with the microprocessor system 502. These output devices
520 include a visual electronic display device 530 and/or a synthetic
speech device 532. Electronic display devices 530 are well known
in the art and are available in a variety of technologies such as
vacuum fluorescent, liquid crystal or Light Emitting Diode (LED).
The patient reads alphanumeric data as it scrolls on the electronic
display device 530. Output devices 520 include a synthetic speech
output device 532 such as a Chipcorder manufactured by ISD (part
No. 4003). Still, other output devices 520 include pacemaker data
input devices, drug infusion pumps or transformer coupled transmitters.
[0055] It will be appreciated that input device(s) 518 can also
be interfaced with the microprocessor system 502. In one embodiment
of the present disclosure an electronic keypad 534 is provided for
the patient to enter responses into the remote computing system
500. Patient data entered through the electronic keypad 534 can
be scrolled on the electronic display 530 or played back on the
synthetic speech device 532.
[0056] In alternate embodiments the input device can include a
generic speech recognition device such as those made by International
Business Machines (IBM), Dragon Systems, Inc. and other providers.
Accordingly, the patient replies to the interrogations merely by
speaking either "YES" or "NO" responses into
the speech recognition input device.
[0057] The microprocessor system 502 is operatively coupled to
the modem 516, the input device(s) 518 and the output device(s)
520. The physiological parameter detector 514 is operatively coupled
to the microprocessor system 502. Electronic measurement signals
from the detector 514 are processed by the A/D converter 515. This
digitized representation of the measured signal is then interfaced
to the CPU 514 via the electronic bus 522 and the bus controller
510. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the physiological
transducing device includes the physiological parameter detector
514.
[0058] Using the input devices 518, output devices 520, and modem
516, the system 500 can be used to allow patients to communicate
directly with other computing devices, for example a local computing
device as described in conjunction with FIG. 4. Specifically, a
caregiver using the local computing device can send queries to the
remote computing system 800 through the communication network 526.
Alternately, the local computing system can send predetermined messages
to the remote computing system 500 and responses logged on the local
computing device.
[0059] A patient using the remote computing system 800 can view
or hear these messages using output devices 520 and respond to them
using input devices 518. Such messages can include providing instructions
for monitoring physiological parameters, reporting symptoms, or
other messages such as those directed toward testing regularity
as described below.
[0060] It will be appreciated that Analog-to-Digital (A/D) converters
are also generally well known and commercially available in a variety
of configurations. Furthermore, an A/D converter 515 can be included
within the physiological transducing device or within the microprocessor
system 502 or within the remote computing system 500 generally.
One skilled in the art would have a variety of design choices in
interfacing a transducing device comprising an electronic sensor
or transducer with the microprocessor system 502.
[0061] The physiological parameter detector 514 can provide an
analog or digital electronic signal output depending on the particular
type of detector 514 chosen. If the physiological parameter detector
514 provides an analog output signal in response to a weight input,
the analog signal is converted to a digital signal via the A/D converter
515. The digital signal is then interfaced with the electronic bus
522 and the CPU 504. If the physiological parameter detector 514
provides a digital output signal, the digital signal can be interfaced
directly with electronic bus 522 and the CPU 504, such as is shown
in FIG. 7.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 6, a block diagram of a remote computing
system 600 for remote physiological parameter monitoring is shown
according to a possible embodiment. The remote computing system
600 includes microprocessor system 602 including a CPU 604, a memory
606, an optional input/output (I/O) controller 608 and a bus controller
610 as illustrated. These components can be configured similarly
to those described above in FIG. 5.
[0063] The remote computing system 600 also includes a microprocessor
system 602, operatively connected to an electronic receiver/transmitter
communication device such as a modem 616, an input device 618 and
an output device 620. The modem 616 is operatively coupled to the
microprocessor system 602 via the electronic bus 622, and to a local
computing system 624 via a communication network 626 and modem 628.
The physiological parameter detector 614 is operatively coupled
to the microprocessor unit 602. Electronic measurement signals from
the detector 614 are processed by the A/D converter 615, as discussed
above.
[0064] In this embodiment, the communication device is a radio
frequency (RF) transceiver. The transceiver comprises a first radio
frequency device 640 including an antenna 642, and a second radio
frequency device 644, including an antenna 646. The first radio
frequency device 640 is operatively coupled to the microprocessor
system 602 via the electronic bus 622, and is in radio communication
with the second radio frequency device 644. The second radio frequency
device 644 is operatively coupled through a microprocessor 648 that
is operatively coupled to a modem 616. The modem 616 is coupled
to the communication network 626 and is in communication with the
local computing system 624 via the modem 616. The first radio frequency
device 640 and the second radio frequency device 644 are remotely
located, one from the other. It will be appreciated that such radio
frequency devices 640, 644 are generally well known and are commercially
available products from RF Monolithics Inc. (RFM).
[0065] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, such transceivers
operate at radio frequencies in the range of 900-2400 MHz. Information
from the microprocessor system 602 is encoded and modulated by the
first RF device 640 for subsequent transmission to the second RF
device 644, located remotely therefrom. The second RF device 644
is coupled to a conventional modem 616 via the microprocessor 648.
The modem 616 is coupled to the communication network 626 via an
in-house wiring connection and ultimately to the modem 628 coupled
to the local computing system 624. Accordingly, information can
be transmitted to and from the microprocessor system 602 via the
RF devices 640, 644 via a radio wave or radio frequency link, thus
providing added portability and flexibility remote computing system
600. It will be appreciated that various other communications devices
can be utilized such as RS-232 serial communication connections,
Internet communications connection as well as satellite communication
connections. Other communications devices that operate by transmitting
and receiving infra-red (IR) energy can be utilized to provide a
wireless communication link between the remote computing system
600 and a conveniently located network connection. Furthermore,
X-10 type devices can also be used as part of a communication link
between the remote computing system 600 and a convenient network
connection in the home. X-10 USA and other companies manufacture
a variety of devices that transmit/receive data without the need
for any special wiring. The devices works by sending signals through
the home's regular electrical wires using what is called power line
carrier (PLC).
[0066] Referring now to FIG. 7, a block diagram of a remote computing
system 700 for remote physiological parameter monitoring is shown
according to a possible embodiment. The system 700 includes microprocessor
system 702 including a CPU 704, a memory 706, an optional input/output
(I/O) controller 708 and a bus controller 710 as illustrated. These
components can be configured similarly to those described above
in FIGS. 5-6.
[0067] The remote computing system 700 also includes a microprocessor
system 702, operatively connected to an electronic receiver/transmitter
communication device such as a modem 716, an input device 718 and
an output device 720. The modem 716 is operatively coupled to the
microprocessor system 702 via the electronic bus 722, and to a local
computing system 724 via a communication network 726 and modem 728.
The physiological parameter detector 714 is operatively coupled
to the microprocessor unit 702.
[0068] In this embodiment, a digital physiological parameter detector
750 is provided. Digital weight measurements from the digital physiological
parameter detector 750 can be interfaced with the microprocessor
system 702 and CPU 704 without requiring additional amplification,
signal conditioning and A/D converters.
[0069] Referring now to FIG. 8, a flowchart for usage of a remote
computing system 800 for remote physiological parameter monitoring
is shown according to a possible embodiment. A monitor module 802
measures an ambulatory patient's physiological parameter. In one
embodiment of the disclosure, namely for diabetics, the physiological
parameter monitored is the patient's blood glucose level. However,
it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the physiological
parameters can include blood pressure, lung capacity, EKG, temperature,
urine output and any other such physical parameter.
[0070] Transduction module 804 converts a monitored or measured
physiological parameter from a mechanical input to an electronic
output by utilizing a transducing device. In one embodiment of the
present disclosure, the transducing device is a glucometer such
as the one disclosed in FIG. 3, which converts the patient's blood
glucose level into a useable electronic signal.
[0071] It will be appreciated that other physiological transducing
devices can be utilized in addition to or alternately to the glucometer.
For example, a blood pressure measurement apparatus and an electrocardiogram
(EKG) measurement apparatus can be utilized for recordation and/or
transmission of blood pressure and EKG measurements from a remote
location. An electronic scale can be utilized for measuring and
monitoring weight changes. It will be appreciated that other monitoring
devices of physiological body functions that provide an analog or
digital electronic output can be utilized, as described with various
embodiments of a remote computing system as described in FIGS. 5-7.
[0072] Processing module 806 processes the electronic signal representative
of the transduced physiological parameter. In some embodiments,
the processing module 806 can determine whether the resulting parameter
value is within certain preprogrammed limits. If so the remote computing
system 800 initiates communication within a local computer (such
as the one shown in FIG. 2) via a communication device and over
a communication network.
[0073] User communication module 808 communicates physiological
parameters between the remote computing system 800 and the ambulatory
patient. For example, the results of a measurement of a physiological
parameter, such as a blood glucose level, can be communicated to
the patient.
[0074] Remote communication module 810 communicates physiological
parameters between the remote computing system 800 and a local computing
system, such as the one shown in FIG. 2.
[0075] Referring now to FIGS. 9-13, a variety of possible structural
embodiments of the remote computing system as described above are
shown according to the present disclosure. In such embodiments,
the remote computing system as described above takes the form of
a specialized patient monitoring apparatus including a rarity of
monitoring systems for measuring one or more physiological parameters
such as blood sugar levels or weight.
[0076] Referring now to FIG. 9A, as this embodiment of the present
disclosure is described herein, an integrated remote computing system
900 is shown. Preferably, the remote computing system 900 includes
an electronic scale 902. The electronic scale 902 further includes
a top plate 904 and a base plate 906. The remote computing system
900 further includes a housing 908 and a support member 910A. The
base plate 906 is connected to the housing 908 through the support
member 910A. The housing 908 further includes output device(s) 912
and input device(s) 914. Preferably, the remote computing system
900 is integrated as a single unit with the support member coupling
the base plate 906 and the housing 908, thus providing a unit in
a one-piece construction.
[0077] It will be appreciated that other physiological transducing
devices can be utilized in addition to the electronic scale 902.
For example, a blood pressure measurement apparatus and an electrocardiogram
(EKG) measurement apparatus can be utilized with the remote computing
system 900 for recordation and/or transmission of blood pressure
and EKG measurements to a remote location. In addition, a glucometer
can be utilized with the remote computing system 900 for measuring
the glucose level in the patient's blood. It will be appreciated
that other monitoring devices of physiological body functions that
provide an analog or digital electronic output can be utilized with
the remote computing system 900, and are connected to the appropriate
functional units as shown above in FIGS. 5-7.
[0078] Referring to FIGS. 9B, 9C, 9D and 9E it will be appreciated
that the support member 910A (FIG. 1A) can be made adjustable. For
example, FIG. 9B illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure
that utilizes a telescoping support member 910B. Likewise, FIG.
9C illustrates an embodiment of the remote computing system 900
that utilizes a folding articulated support member 910C. FIG. 9D
illustrates yet another embodiment of the present disclosure utilizing
support member 910D that folds at a pivot point 914 located at its
base.
[0079] It will also be appreciated that other types of articulated
and folding support members can be utilized in other embodiments
of the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 9E illustrates an embodiment
of the present disclosure that provides a support member 910E that
is removably insertable into a socket 916. A cable 918 is passed
through the support member 910E to carry electrical signals from
the electronic scale 902 to the housing 908 for further processing.
A tether 920 is provided to restrain the movement of the support
member 910E relative to the base plate 906 once it is removed from
the socket 916.
[0080] Referring now to FIG. 10, the structure of a remote computing
system 1000 is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present
disclosure where the support member 1010 folds about pivot point
1022. Folding the integrated monitoring apparatus about pivot point
1022 provides a convenient method of shipping, transporting or moving
the apparatus in a substantially horizontal orientation. The preferred
direction of folding is indicated in the illustration, however,
the support member 1010 can be made to fold in either direction.
Furthermore, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides rubber
feet 1024 underneath the base plate 1006 of the scale 1002.
[0081] Referring now to FIG. 11, the structure of a remote computing
system 1100 is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present
disclosure that provides an articulated, folding support member
1110. The support member 1110 folds at two hinged pivot points 1126,
1128. Also illustrated is a sectional view of a scale 1102, top
plate 1104, base plate 1106, load cell 1130 and strain gage 1132.
[0082] Referring now to FIG. 12, a sectional view of a scale portion
of a remote computing system 1200 is shown according to one embodiment
of the present disclosure. The scale 1202 comprises a top plate
1204 and a base plate 1206. The top plate 1204 and the base plate
1206 having a thickness "T". A load cell 1230 is disposed
between the top plate 1204 and the base plate 1206 and rests on
support/mounting surfaces 1234 and 1236.
[0083] The load cell 1230 is a transducer that responds to forces
applied to it. During operation, when a patient steps on the electronic
scale 1202, the load cell 1230 responds to a force "F"
transmitted through the top plate 1204 and a first support/mounting
surface 1234. The support/mounting surface 1234 is in contact with
a first end on a top side of the load cell 1230. A force "F'"
that is equal and opposite to "F" is transmitted from
the surface that the electronic scale 1202 is resting on, thorough
the base plate 1206 and a second support/mounting surface 1236.
The second support/mounting surface 1236 is in contact with a second
end on a bottom side of the load cell 1230. In one embodiment, the
load cell 1230 is attached to the top plate 1204 and the base plate
1206, respectively, with bolts that engage threaded holes provided
in the load cell 1230. In one embodiment the load cell 1230 further
comprises a strain gage 1232.
[0084] The strain gage 1232 is made from ultra-thin heat-treated
metallic foils. The strain gage 1232 changes electrical resistance
when it is stressed, e.g. placed in tension or compression. The
strain gage 1232 is mounted or cemented to the load cell 1230 using
generally known techniques in the art, for example with specially
formulated adhesives, urethanes, epoxies or rubber latex. The positioning
of the strain gage 1232 will generally have some measurable effect
on overall performance of the load cell 1230. Furthermore, it will
be appreciated by those skilled in the art that additional reference
strain gages can be disposed on the load cell where they will not
be subjected to stresses or loads for purposes of temperature compensating
the strain gage 1232 under load. During operation over varying ambient
temperatures, signals from the reference strain gages can be added
or subtracted to the measurement signal of the strain gage 1232
under load to compensate for any adverse effects of ambient temperature
on the accuracy of the strain gage 1232.
[0085] The forces, F and F', apply stress to the surface on which
the strain gage 1232 is attached. The weight of the patient applies
a load on the top plate 1204. Under the load the strain gage(s)
1232 mounted to the top of the load cell 1230 will be in tension/compression
as the load cell bends. As the strain gage 1232 is stretched or
compressed its resistance changes proportionally to the applied
load. The strain gage 1232 is electrically connected such that when
an input voltage or current is applied to the strain gage 1232,
an output current or voltage signal is generated that is proportional
to the force applied to the load cell 1230. This output signal is
then converted to a digital signal by an A/D converter, such as
those described above.
[0086] The design of the load cell 1230 having a first end on a
top side attached to the top plate 1204 and a second end on a bottom
side attached to the base plate 1206 provides a structure for stressing
the strain gage 1232 in a repeatable manner. The structure enables
a more accurate and repeatable weight measurement. This weight measurement
is repeatable whether the scale 1202 rests on a rigid tile floor
or on a carpeted floor.
[0087] Referring now to FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of the
top plate 1304 that provides four mounting holes 1338 for attaching
the base plate to one end of the load cell. The base plate provides
similar holes for attaching to the other end of the load cell. The
top plate and the base plate (not shown) each comprise a plurality
of stiffening ribs 1340 that add strength and rigidity to the electronic
scale.
[0088] Table 1 shows multiple comparative weight measurements taken
with an electronic scale resting on a tile floor and a carpeted
floor without rubber feet on the scale. The measurements were taken
using the same load cell. The thickness "T" of the top
plate and supporting ribs was 0.125'' except around the load cell,
where the thickness of the supporting ribs was 0.250''. The thickness
of the load cell support/mounting surfaces 96, 98 (FIG. 9) was 0.375''.
As indicated in Table 1, with the scale resting on a tile floor,
the average measured weight was 146.77 lbs., with a standard deviation
of 0.11595. Subsequently, with the scale resting on a 0.5'' carpet
with 0.38'' pad underneath and an additional 0.5'' rug on top of
the carpet, the average measured weight was 146.72 lbs., with a
standard deviation of 0.16866. TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Thick Scale
Parts Around Load Cell 0.250'' TILE (lbs.) CARPET (lbs.) 146.9 146.7
146.7 147 146.9 146.6 146.8 146.7 146.6 146.6 146.8 147 146.8 146.5
146.7 146.6 146.9 146.8 146.6 146.7 0.11595 (stddev) 0.16866 (stddev)
146.77 (average) 146.72 (average)
[0089] Table 2 shows multiple weight measurements taken with the
scale on a tile floor and a carpeted floor with rubber feet on the
bottom of the scale. The measurements were taken using the same
load cell. The thickness "T" of the top plate was 0.125''
including the thickness around the load cell. As indicated in Table
2, with the scale resting on a tile floor on rubber feet, the average
measured weight was 146.62 lbs., with a standard deviation of 0.07888.
Subsequently, with the scale resting on a 0.5'' carpet with 0.38''
pad underneath and an additional 0.5'' rug on top of the carpet,
the average measured weight was 146.62 lbs., with a standard deviation
of 0.04216. TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Thin Scale Parts Throughout 0.125''
TILE (lbs.) CARPET (lbs.) 146.7 146.7 146.7 146.7 146.6 146.6 146.6
146.6 146.6 146.6 146.6 146.6 146.5 146.6 146.7 146.6 146.5 146.6
146.7 146.6 0.07888 (stddev) 0.04216 (stddev) 146.62 (average) 146.62
(average)
[0090] Table 3 shows multiple weight measurements taken with an
off-the-shelf conventional electronic scale. As indicated in Table
3, with the off-the-shelf conventional scale resting on the tile
floor, the average measured weight was 165.5571 lbs., with a standard
deviation of 0.20702. Subsequently, with the off-the-shelf conventional
scale resting on a 0.5'' carpet with 0.38'' pad underneath and an
additional 0.5'' rug on top of the carpet, the average measured
weight was 163.5143 lbs., with a standard deviation of 0.13093.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Off-The-Shelf Conventional Scale TILE (lbs.)
CARPET (lbs.) 165.9 163.5 165.5 163.4 165.8 163.7 165.4 163.6 165.5
163.6 165.4 163.5 165.4 163.3 -- 163.4 0.20702 (stddev) 0.13093
(stddev) 165.5571 (average) 163.5143 (average) 2.042857 (% of difference)
1.249345 (% of difference)
[0091] The summary in Table 4 is a comparative illustration of
the relative repeatability of each scale while resting either on
a tile floor or on a carpeted floor. TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 SUMMARY
OF DATA: TILE VS. TRIAL TILE STDDEV CARPET STDDEV CARPET Heavy Scale
Parts All 0.125'' Except Cell Around the Load Cell 0.250'' 1 146.77
0.1159 146.72 0.1686 0.05 2 146.67 0.0823 146.72 0.1906 0.05 Thin
Scale Parts All 0.125'' 1 146.62 0.0788 146.62 0.04216 0.00 Off-The-Shelf
Conventional Scale 1 165.55 0.207 163.51 0.1309 2.04
[0092] The foregoing description was intended to provide a general
description of the overall structure of several embodiments of the
present disclosure, along with a brief description of the specific
components of these embodiments of the present disclosure. The following
provides examples of operation of the remote computing system.
[0093] In operating the remote computing system, an ambulatory
patient utilizes the system to obtain a measurement of a particular
physiological parameter. For example, an ambulatory patient suffering
from chronic heart failure will generally be required to monitor
his or her weight as part of in-home patient managing system. Accordingly,
the patient measures his or her weight by stepping onto the electronic
scale, integrally located within the base plate of the remote computing
system. Alternately, the patient measures his or her glucose level
by connecting a glucometer to the housing.
[0094] In some embodiments the communication device of the remote
computing system will only activate if the measured weight or other
physiological parameter is within a defined range such as +/-10
lbs, +/-10% or any selected predetermined value of a previous measurement.
The patient's previous symptom free parameter is stored in a memory.
This prevents false activation of the communication device if a
child, pet, or other person accidentally steps onto the electronic
scale.
[0095] Upon measuring the weight or other physiological parameter,
the system determines whether it is within a defined, required range
such as +/-10 lbs. or +/-10% of a previously recorded weight stored
in memory. The remote computing system then initiates a call via
the communication device to the remote site. Communication is established
between the remote computing system and the local computing system.
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the patient's weight
is electronically transferred from the remote computing system at
the remote site to the local computing system at the local site.
At the local site a computer program compares the patient's weight
with the dry weight and wellness information and updates various
user screens. The program can also analyze the patient's weight
trend over the previous 1-21 days. If significant symptoms and/or
excessive weight changes are reported, the local computing system
alerts the medical care provider who can provoke a change to the
patient's medication dosage, or establish further communication
with the patient such as placing a telephone to the patient. The
communication between the patient's remote location and the local
location can be one way or two way communication depending on the
particular situation.
[0096] To establish the patient's overall condition, the patient
is prompted via the output device(s) to answer questions regarding
various wellness parameters. An exemplary list of questions, symptoms
monitored and the related numerical score is provided in Table 5
as follows: TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 Health Check Score Question Symptom
Value Above Dry Weight? Fluid accumulation 10 Are you feeling short
of breath? Dyspnea 10 Did you awaken during the night short Paroxysmal
nocturnal 5 of breath? dyspnea Did you need extra pillows last night?
Congestion in the lungs 5 Are you coughing more than usual? Congestion
in the lungs 3 Are your ankles or feet swollen? Pedal edema 5 Does
your stomach feel bloated? Stomach edema 3 Do you feel dizzy or
lightheaded? Hypotension 5 Are you more tired than usual? Fatigue
2 Are you taking your medication? Medication compliance 7 Has your
appetite decreased? Appetite 2 Are you reducing your salt intake?
Sodium intake 1 Did you exercise today? Fitness 1
[0097] At the local site the medical professional caregiver evaluates
the overall score according to the wellness parameter interrogation
responses (as shown in Table 5). For example, if the patient's total
score is equal to or greater than 10, an exception is issued and
will either prompt an intervention by the medical professional caregiver
in administering medication, or prompt taking further action in
the medical care of the patient.
[0098] Upon uploading the information to the local computing system,
the medical professional caregiver may telephone the patient to
discuss, clarify or validate any particular wellness parameter or
physiological data point. Furthermore, the medical professional
caregiver may update the list of wellness parameter questions listed
in Table 5 from the local site over the two-way communication network.
Modifications are transmitted from the local computing system via
communication device, over the communication network, through communication
device and to the remote computing system. The modified query list
is then stored in the memory of the microprocessor system.
[0099] Similar to the preceding example of weight management, glucose
levels of a person with diabetes can be monitored. The apparatus
can include a glucose meter. The person can insert a test strip,
having a small amount of blood, into the glucose meter. The glucose
meter can measure the glucose level in the blood and transmit that
information through the communication device over the communication
network to the communication device and the local computing system.
The local computing system can track and monitor the glucose levels
of the person. If the glucose level is abnormal, a caregiver and/or
patient can be notified.
[0100] FIG. 14 depicts a state transition diagram of another embodiment
of the scheme of FIG. 1. According to the embodiment of FIG. 14,
a count parameter may be maintained by the device utilizing the
exhaustible medical supply. For example, with reference to FIG.
3, the count may be maintained by the glucometer 304, or may be
maintained by the patient monitoring device 302. Such an embodiment
is useful when the device utilizing the expendable medical supply
may be used one or more times between communication sessions with
the remote computing system 208 (see FIG. 2) operated by the call
center, health care facility, etc. The embodiment of FIG. 14 prevents
such intersession usage from going unobserved and therefore uncounted.
The method of FIG. 14 may be executed by either the device utilizing
the disposable medical supply or by any device that communicates
therewith (e.g., the patient monitoring device 302). For the sake
of illustration only, the method of FIG. 14 is described as though
it is being executed by the patient monitoring device 302 with a
glucometer coupled thereto.
[0101] As can be seen from FIG. 14, in between uses of the patient
monitoring device and/or the glucometer are in an idle state 1400.
Upon command, the glucometer transitions to a measurement state
1402 wherein it develops a blood glucose measurement based upon
a blood sample delivered on a disposable strip. During this process,
a test strip and a lance may be expended, for example. Thus, a counter
corresponding to each expendable/exhaustible/disposable item is
increment (e.g., a counter corresponding to the test strip is incremented,
and a counter corresponding to the lance is incremented).
[0102] In the context of an inter-session measurement, the glucometer
and patient monitoring device return to the idle state 1400. Thereafter,
the glucometer may be commanded to take another measurement, whereupon
transition to state 1402 will again occur, and the aforementioned
counters are again incremented. When the blood measurement is obtained
as a part of a patient monitoring session, a transition to the transmit
glucose measurement and counters state 1404 occurs (of course, the
patient monitoring device may pose questions to the patient, as
described previously, prior to such transition). During execution
of state 1404, the patient monitoring device transmits both the
blood glucose level and the aforementioned counters to the remote
computing system 208.
[0103] The remote computing system 208 responds by executing the
method of FIG. 1, with the following exception. Instead of incrementing
the supply counter by one in operation 108, the supply counter is
incremented by the corresponding counter value received from the
patient monitoring device. (Example: assuming that the patient has
measured his blood glucose level ten times since the last communication
with the remote computing system 208, supply counter X is incremented
by ten, i.e., X=X+10, indicating that ten test strips have been
expended, and/or that ten lances have been expended.)
[0104] According to some embodiments, Y is a function of the purchased
expendable medical supply. For example, assuming that a supply of
100 test strips is purchased, the remote computing system may be
programmed to set Y equal to 90 (e.g., Y=0.9*the number of test
strips purchased). On the other hand, assuming that a supply of
200 test strips is purchased, the remote computing system may be
programmed to set Y equal to 180 (e.g., Y=0.9*the number of test
strips purchased).
[0105] The logical operations of the various embodiments of the
present disclosure can be implemented as a sequence of computer
implemented steps running on a computing system. The implementation
is a matter of choice dependent on the performance requirements
of the computing system implementing the disclosure. The invention
can be implemented as a computer process, a computing system, or
as an article of manufacture such as a computer program or computer
readable media. The computer program product can be a computer storage
media readable by a computer system and encoding a computer program
of instructions for executing a computer process. The computer program
product can also be a propagated signal on a carrier readable by
a computing system and encoding a computer program of instructions
for executing a computer process.
[0106] Thus, it will be appreciated that the previously described
embodiments provide a method and system for the tracking and monitoring
or medical supplies and the automatic reordering of such supplies.
[0107] Also, it will be appreciated that the previously described
embodiments provide many advantages, including addressing the needs
in the medical profession for an apparatus and method capable of
monitoring and transmitting physiological and wellness parameters
of ambulatory patients to a remote site whereby a medical professional
caregiver can evaluate such physiological and wellness parameters
and make decisions regarding the patient's treatment.
[0108] Also, it will be appreciated that the previously described
embodiments provide other advantages, including addressing the need
for an apparatus for monitoring and transmitting such physiological
and wellness parameters that is available in an easy to use portable
integrated single unit.
[0109] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the previously
described embodiments provide still other advantages, including
addressing the need for medical professional caregivers to monitor
and manage the patient's condition to prevent the rehospitalization
of the patient, and to prevent the patient's condition from deteriorating
to the point where hospitalization may be required.
[0110] The above specification, examples and data provide a complete
description of the manufacture and use of the composition of the
invention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention
resides in the claims hereinafter appended. |