Smart Meter’s iScale transmits weight information directly to healthcare providers, demonstrating a next-gen way for patients to stay on track right from home

As weight loss medication becomes more prominent and the desire to lose weight for longevity rather than vanity grows, one of the most rudimentary devices – the scale – has become high-tech out of necessity.

According to one Stanford Medicine study, those following a weight loss program tend to be more successful if they use progress-tracking digital health tools. It’s a finding that’s the foundation of Smart Meter, the iScale and iScale Plus maker. The two products go beyond a traditional bathroom scale, transmitting data directly to healthcare providers via a private AT&T data network. 

The iScale Plus offers a larger footprint and display screen, with a weight capacity of 551 (versus iScale’s 440).

credit: Smart Meter

 

“Smart Meter understands that weight loss can be a key to improved outcomes for a large majority of chronic disease patients,” Smart Meter CEO Casey Pittock said. “Our cellular iScales make it easy for the patient to weigh themselves and easy for their provider to track progress in real time.”

When used in combination with a weight loss program, iScale can help patients achieve their health goals, Pittock added.

From Connected Fitness to Connected Scales  

Just as in-app body composition scanning technology gives fitness and wellness consumers a more private, home-based option to gather data and track progress, cellular-connected scales and remote patient monitoring (RPM) also offer similar benefits. Instead of patients heading to an in-person appointment, Smart Meter says healthcare providers can easily analyze weight trends, identify plateaus and make informed patient recommendations.

The health tech company also points out a major benefit of cellular RPM scales: the ability to quickly address health issues that may arise.

credit: Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

“Sudden weight fluctuations could signal a need for a medication review, dietary adjustment, or even mental health support,” Smart Meter said in a statement. “This level of precision allows for early intervention, improving the overall effectiveness of weight loss programs.”

Seamless Health Monitoring

Smart Meter also offers other health tech products, including blood pressure monitors, glucose meters and pulse oximeters, all with the capability to send important health data to health care providers.

Although such devices were once reserved for patients with chronic conditions, the average consumer seemingly has become enthralled with having a way to access real-time health data. 

Whether fueled by the post-pandemic environment, the pivot towards healthy living for longevity purposes, or the familiarity of health tech wearables and fitness trackers (or perhaps a combination of the three), the stage has been set for devices like iScale to become commonplace in the homes of Americans. 

Medical Devices Empower Consumers

Continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMs) are also emerging as a health tool for everyday tracking. 

As of last month (and following FDA approval earlier this year), Stelo by Dexcom is now available without a prescription for 24/7 personalized glucose data readings. The device, which is worn on the back of the upper arm, is designed for those with Type 2 diabetes who do not use insulin and those who are pre-diabetic. The CGM sends data directly to a smartphone and is Flex Savings Account and Health Savings Account eligible. 

Understanding how food, sleep and exercise directly impact glucose can help consumers make better choices.

“Dexcom has been at the forefront of glucose biosensing for 25 years. With the launch of Stelo, we’re defining a brand-new category and once again setting the gold standard for people to easily take control of their health,” Dexcom executive vice president and chief operating officer Jake Leach said. “Now, millions more have access to 24/7, easy-to-understand glucose insights that can inform their daily lifestyle choices and support behavior modification.”

The post Cellular-Connected Scales May Upgrade Weight Management appeared first on Athletech News.