EKG Monitor - Why we are better than Apple

UPDATE: EKG Monitor - Why we are better than Apple

The English-language magazine "MEDPAGE TODAY" has now also compared different mobile ECG devices (including Apple and Alivecor) and comes to the following conclusion:

Patients should be aware of this Apple Watch AF flaw. The absence of a declaration of possible AF on the Apple Watch ECG should not reassure anyone of the absence of AF.

Apple Watch users should have their high rate recordings reviewed by a cardiologist. Alternatively, they could purchase a Kardia device and utilize it for heart rates over 120 BPM.

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The dream of universal health monitoring

The big giants in the mobile segment are working to ensure that all possible health data and interfaces are served. First of all, we would like to mention that we really appreciate Apple and their work. We also use their Healthcare App with some of our ECG Monitor products and are excited about the resulting opportunities in the healthcare sector. However, a few articles about the new Apple 1-channel ECG (Apple Watch 4) have just been published with really negative voices.

What is an EKG monitor?

EKG monitors allow permanent or temporary monitoring in real-time. They measure the heart rhythm and heart rate. The more channels there are and the more electrodes are connected to the appropriate body parts, the more accurately the ECG can be read. The simplest ECG monitors use one channel, for the most accurate measurement 12 channels are used. The signals are always digitally processed, whereby limits for alarms are defined by the recorded heart rate.

Is the criticism of the Apple ECG monitor justified?

We say yes. The highest standard today is 12-lead ECGs, which is already used in the field of wearables by many companies such as Healthwatchtech and Labtech. In this way, not only atrial fibrillation but also ventricular fibrillation is detected. If the values of the new Apple ECG were at least useful in the 1-channel range, we would not complain, because we also see a high benefit in 1-channel measurements. Unfortunately, 90% of the measurements on the Apple Watch 4 could not even be classified. This embarrassing escapade is unfortunately not the first time. The quality of the Apple Watch 2 heart rate monitor also left a lot to be desired in its time.

Why users of an Apple Watch can still breathe a sigh of relief

There is reason for relief. With the medical device approved ECG monitor from Alivecor there is a wristband for the Apple Watch with which good ECG measurements are still possible. Atrial fibrillation is also reliably detected. The best thing is that you don't even need the latest version of the Apple Watch and can share the data with your doctor immediately via an app. Many physicians are happy about this commitment from their patients and are happy to get involved. The doctor saves time and can read important data about your health through the ECG monitor and ensure better treatment.