By Stuart A. Bussey, M.D., J.D., UAPD President
We all know by now that a good EHR system can be used to reduce medical errors and improve patient outcomes in diabetes and other diseases. The downside of technology is the reduction of human contact in the doctor-patient relationship. Now comes the “pocket” cardiologist.
The device is an ECG monitor under review by the FDA. A patient can now use a smartphone to record a quality ECG with accurate rhythm, heart rate, and variability. Such a device has already successfully detected an ischemia induced rhythm change in a patient. As in other areas of telemedicine the concern for doctors is too much data without adequate clinical correlation.