Remote cameras monitor vital signs for faster response

Philips’ Contactless Monitoring uses microscopic changes in skin color to remotely monitor heartbeat, respiration and oxygen levels.

We’ve seen a wearable biometric clip that monitors patients’ vitals in emergencies, and now a camera by Philips remotely measures heart rate, blood oxygen levels and respiration so physicians can monitor patients more centrally. Accurate to within two percent of traditional methods of measurement, the remote camera detects changes in the face and neck rather than arm or finger, and could provide slightly faster emergency responses.

Remote monitoring could be a particular improvement in care for patients with higher-than-average risk of infection. Premature babies and those with sensitive skin conditions are among those most likely to benefit from the new device. The camera works by detecting and measuring microscopic changes in the color of a patient’s skin. Called a micro-blush, the change, invisible to the human eye, occurs each time the heart beats. An algorithm translates the camera’s image data into pulse and respiration rates and blood oxygen level measures.

Projects making healthcare more accessible are increasing in number, and we’ve written previously about telemedicine via public kiosks and over-the-phone respiratory checks. What other aspects of hospital care could benefit from remote monitoring?