Smartinhaler Delivers Timely, Precise Asthma Treatment

The Hailie Smartinhaler, developed by med-tech company Adherium, helps improve asthma management by making sure inhalers are used properly and on time. It’s been supporting asthma patients in the U.S. since 2017, and now the company aims to bring it to Australians as well.

Asthma affects up to 29% of the global population, causing symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing.ing. If not properly managed, it can pose a serious risk of death. In many cases, poor control stems from inconsistent treatment or incorrect inhaler use.

Adherium Limited, an Australian eHealth company specializing in respiratory disease management, created the Hailie Smartinhaler to help asthma patients use their inhalers as effectively as possible.

“I’ve suspected that many asthma patients either don’t take their medication regularly or use it incorrectly,” said Dr. William McCann, an allergy and immunology expert. “The health outcomes from asthma treatments haven’t been as good as they should be.”

Tracking and Reminding for Effective Asthma Medication Management

The Hailie Smartinhaler features a Bluetooth sensor that attaches to an asthma inhaler, tracking the amount of medication delivered. It also includes an alarm to remind patients when it’s time to take a dose. Real-time updates are sent to the patient’s Hailie app and doctor via the Hailie portal. The device is compatible with all inhalers, whether rescue or preventive.

“This technology reminds patients to use their medication and ensures proper use, improving treatment adherence,” McCann said. “It helps patients, families, and healthcare providers discuss inhaler technique and medication, leading to better outcomes and quality of life.”

Study Finds Smartinhaler Boosts Adherence and Reduces Severe Asthma Flare-Ups

A 2014 study in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that Smartinhaler reminders improved treatment adherence in moderate-to-severe asthma patients. It also showed that 11% of Smartinhaler users had severe flare-ups, compared to 28% in the non-user group.

The Hailie Smartinhaler has been available in the U.S. since 2017, following FDA approval. In 2022, the U.S. began reimbursing Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM) for Smartinhaler patients. This reimbursement program encourages providers to adopt these technologies by offering financial support for delivering remote care.

Adherium Pushes for Smartinhaler Introduction in Australia

Adherium is now advocating for the Smartinhaler to be introduced in Australia.

“We’ve seen great results in the U.S. and gathered data that highlights Hailie’s value to patients and the healthcare system,” said Adherium’s interim CEO, Jeremy Curnock Cook.“The next step is to conduct demonstration pilots in Australia to show the impact Hailie can have on asthma patients.”

Beyond the clear health benefits for patients, Curnock Cook noted that the Smartinhaler could also lead to savings at both the state and federal levels.

“Our healthcare system in Australia is under strain, and adopting our technology could ease the burden on frontline workers and improve lives,” he said. “In 2020-21, there were 25,500 asthma-related hospitalizations, costing an estimated AU$851.7 million (US$549 million) in healthcare expenses. We aim to give patients the best chance for better health outcomes and more effective treatment.”

Read the original article on: New Atlas

Read more: Wearable Stethoscope Patch Monitors Respiratory Issues Over Extended Periods