Robert Bosch Healthcare, a provider of telehealth systems, will showcase a new wireless modem option and custom messaging feature for its Health Buddy System, as well as the VitelCare T400 home health monitor at the American Telemedicine Association (ATA) Conference, held May 16 - 18, 2010 (booth 1339) in San Antonio. 

These new products are expected to further assist elderly patients or those with chronic conditions feel more connected with their care providers, and maintain healthier, more independent lifestyles. At ATA 2010, the world's largest scientific meeting focused exclusively on telemedicine, Bosch executives and partners will share outcomes from recent projects during panel discussions, covering a range of issues affecting the telehealth industry, healthcare providers and patients.

"Our innovative strength and successful deployments were essential factors in achieving our leading position in telehealth," said Derek Newell, president, Robert Bosch Healthcare. "Each day, around 30,000 patients connect to their care providers using the Health Buddy System. New technologies introduced at this year's ATA conference will further help users to take an active role in managing their health and complying with treatment."

Telehealth With Results


With one of the largest telehealth deployments in the U.S., Bosch's Health Buddy System, a remote monitoring platform that serves as a daily interface between patients with chronic illnesses, care coordinators and physicians, has a proven track record of success over the past decade. As care providers access user data via the Health Buddy System, they are early alerted of warning signs if a user's health is deteriorating, and can actively address gaps in care, before a patient's condition becomes critical. The goal: Improved care and reduced costs. Published results of four years of data from a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) telehealth program showed a 19 percent reduction in hospitalizations and 25 percent reduction in bed days of care for participating patients.(1)

Wireless Modem Option


Increasing numbers of individuals are abandoning land-line phone systems, and moving purely to wireless cellular phones. Bosch Healthcare has responded to this development by offering a wireless modem for use in conjunction with its Health Buddy System. The wireless modem is simple to set up in the patient's home and uses industry-standard encryption to keep patient data secure. For enhanced coverage in rural areas, the wireless modem automatically selects from over 20 different wireless service providers.

With the wireless modem option, healthcare providers can remain connected to as many patients as possible through the Health Buddy System. Patients with poor telephone reception or those without a land-line or an Ethernet line can continue to take advantage of the system's benefits. Those who had difficulty with transmission previously will find it easier to adhere to their Health Buddy program with the introduction of the wireless modem option.