Philips has launched its smartphone- and tablet-connected ultrasound system for physicians, called Lumify, in the United States, just a few weeks after it was cleared by the FDA for prescription use. The system is available for a month-to-month subscription starting at $199.
This is Philips’ first effort at app-based ultrasound. It’s just a start though–the company plans to follow up with the introduction of more ultrasound transducers, applications and services that work with a new app-based portal for device management, training and support.
Philips refocused on its combined consumer and medical technology groups last year, which it dubbed “HealthTech,” and is in the process of divesting most of its lighting assets to fund this transition. The company expects that a strong ultrasound portfolio of products will help it recover in the U.S. market, Philips CEO Frans van Houten said on the company’s latest earnings call in April.
“In an increasingly connected world where the power of technology is at our fingertips, it’s no longer enough to create an ultrasound product or service. At Philips, we create solutions holistically with the patient at the center. Lumify leverages advanced digital health technology to provide critical information to the right people at the right time, transforming how we approach care delivery and connecting the various touch points along the health continuum,” Philips ultra mobile veep Randy Hamlin said in prepared remarks.
The program is built around the Lumify transducer, which incorporates all of the electronics required for ultrasound scanning into the probe’s handle. The transducer can then be connected to an Android-based smart device via a USB cable. Lumify uses cloud sharing technology to access PACS, shared networks and system directories, and are accessible on Philips HealthSuite digital platform.
“Lumify has the potential to provide on-demand, point-of-care diagnostics in a more connected environment. We have been using the Philips Smart Device Ultrasound with our medical students. Leveraging a familiar device with portable diagnostic testing makes learning ultrasound easier for new users and more convenient for experienced imagers. I think that convenience and availability will increase the utility of this technology, improving patient care and efficiency,” Dr. Bret Nelson of New York’s Mt. Sinai Hospital said in a prepared statement.
Clinicians can use the transducers for acute and emergency care, internal medicine, musculoskeletal urgent care, and office practice. The Lumify app allows users to examine the gall bladder, abdomen, and lungs. The device also has ob-gyn, vascular, superficial, musculoskeletal, and soft tissue functionality.
Philips subscription portal allows users to order more transducers and manage their subscriptions, as well as access support, training and IT services.
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