The landscape of healthcare is rapidly evolving, with patient safety and the efficiency of patient monitoring gaining increased importance. Traditional spot-based patient surveillance methods have notable limitations, and there is substantial documentation on the benefits of more continuous monitoring approaches. Vitalthings, a Norwegian health technology company, is at the forefront of this evolution, developing contactless monitoring solutions that significantly enhance patient safety, operational efficiency, and overall cost-effectiveness.

Vitalthings' pioneering solution offers continuous and contactless monitoring. This innovative technology operates effectively across various patient positions and through different materials, such as clothing and bedding, eliminating the need for direct sensor contact with the body. The technology, which is part of the innovative partnership with Autoscore at St. Olavs University Hospital addresses fundamental challenges of traditional monitoring methods.

Continuous monitoring presents considerable advantages, including decreased mortality risk, diminished need for intensive care, fewer rapid response team interventions, and shorter hospital stays. While global studies highlight substantial benefits for both patients and hospital economics, access to patient monitoring remains limited. Contactless monitoring, however, streamlines the process with automatic activation, saving healthcare personnel valuable time and providing equitable monitoring for all patient groups, notably those with dementia or psychiatric conditions. Furthermore, this contactless approach is not only sustainable but also cost-effective, thanks to the elimination of consumables and reduced disinfection requirements.

Dr. Thu will elaborate on how the continuous data harvested by this system serves as a foundation for future research and the development of AI models. This shift towards more proactive healthcare modalities, empowered by enhanced patient and staff safety, paves the way for the integration of AI into predictive medicine.

The implementation of Vitalthings' contactless monitoring technology signifies a substantial advancement towards proactive healthcare, emphasizing the role of continuous data and AI in shaping future medical practices.