Intel has rolled out its first in a series of health monitoring devices aimed at tracking chronic and age-related conditions. The new technology, which connects patients and physicians, gives the company a foothold in what is considered a new category of personal health systems.

The Intel Health Guide goes beyond the simple patient monitoring systems on the market today, Intel executives said. It combines an in-home patient device with an online interface - the Intel Health Care Management Suite - making it possible for clinicians to monitor patients in their homes and manage care remotely.

Intel received Food and Drug Administration clearance in July for the Intel Health Guide.

"The Health Guide is a step forward in offering more personalized and effective management of chronic health conditions in the home," said Louis Burns, vice president and general manager of the Intel Digital Health Group. "Intel has spent years researching the needs of both caregivers and patients, and we are now moving to launch a series of products that will help extend care from the hospital to the home. Our products will help address the challenges of an aging population and rising rates of chronic disease."

The technology offers interactive tools for personalized care management and includes vital sign collection, patient reminders, surveys, multimedia educational content and feedback and communications tools such as video conferencing and alerts. Clinicians have ongoing access to data to better manage each patient's conditions.

Intel is collaborating with healthcare industry leaders around the world to validate the clinical benefits of the Health Guide for a wide range of chronic disease conditions and health and wellness applications.