The BioButton is a coin-sized, disposable medical device that measures continuous temperature and other vital signs. “BioIntelliSense’s BioButton medical-grade device and HIPAA-compliant data services enable effortless remote data capture and continuous monitoring of temperature, respiratory rate and heart rate at rest, body position, sleep and activity state for 90-days on a single disposable on-body sensor.” The BioButton is about the size of a quarter and adheres to a wearer’s chest with a battery lasting 30 days. It stores and transmits data every 10 minutes. Vitals are sent via encrypted transmission. Non-location based contact tracing reports on proximity and duration to other BioButtons.
Select countries are viewing a device for visitors to affix to their bodies as a high-tech solution to contain the spread of COVID-19 and to restart tourism. Singapore, Hong Kong and South Korea are looking into tracking arrivals to assure compliance with quarantines. Singapore is closed to nonresidents, but it tracks returning residents with electronic monitoring devices during a 14-day quarantine. The devices are given to the residents after clearing immigration. Hong Kong and South Korea issue wristbands that track the arrival’s movements.
The Cayman Islands is in talks with BioIntelliSense to monitor health data when they reopen their borders. Each of these countries sees these wearables as a way to restart tourism while reducing the risk posed by the pandemic.
Hawaii is also considering GPS technology for resort areas.
Employers, schools and others are also looking into the BioButton to safely resume operations.
Of course, there are other medical uses for these types of devices including remote patient monitoring data services to allow for monitoring for pre and post virtual care for patients who are ill or having surgery.
