Vodafone and Smart Meter Team Up for Mobile Diabetes Management

Smart Meter and Vodafone have announced a new partnership that will make Smart Meter’s recently FDA-approved iGlucose platform accessible in 160 countries using Vodafone’s global Internet of Things (IoT) network.

The partnership enables the iGlucose blood glucose meter to send glucose readings and other health data to a personal web portal via Vodafone’s IoT network. Patients and their physician and caretakers can then access customized reports and digital logbooks that are updated in real-time.

“Managing diabetes is a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week job, and often requires the support of a Circle of Care consisting of healthcare providers, payers and loved ones,” said Smart Meter CEO Cliff McIntosh. “The reliable and instantaneous two-way communication we can provide through an affordable platform is a real game-changer for people that are managing diabetes – they know they always have the support of others when needed.”

That need is expected to grow. The total number of people with diabetes is projected to rise from 415 million in 2015 to 642 million in 2040, according to the International Diabetes Foundation.

The iGlucose platform can also automatically send readings via text message or email to family members, caregivers or other designated recipients, which the platform dubs the “Circle of Care”. Those in the circle can reply to address issues or offer encouragement and tips and reminders to test are also sent.

The platform also provides real-time data to healthcare providers so they can see which patients are low, out of control, or not testing. This allows patient care to be arranged via who needs the most attention. Studies have shown this connection between healthcare providers and patients leads to increased therapy compliance and drug adherence.

It is not clear yet when the new platform and meter will be available for purchase.