That’s why doctors, hospitals, and high-tech companies such as Dallas-based AT&T Inc. are so excited about a new generation of devices that let medical professionals track patient progress.

These wireless devices automatically send doctors stats that people already measure – weight, blood pressure, etc. – so doctors can intervene at the first sign of trouble rather than waiting till patients feel bad enough to seek help.

The Department of Veterans Affairs already uses such “telehealth” technology on 35,000 patients.

Now, private health groups – working with insurers, universities and technology makers – have begun tests that could lead to widespread deployment over the next couple of years.

“A lot of this is old technology,” said Bob Miller, executive director of AT&T’s communications-technology research department. “But we’re putting it together in ways that will help millions of people live dramatically better lives.”

via AT&T, other firms test devices to help monitor patients from afar | News for Dallas, Texas | Dallas Morning News | Technology and Telecom News | Dallas Business News .

Home-based monitoring services like AT&Ts — which is approaching the trial stage — could transform how doctors interact with their patients. “The health-care industry is under a lot of stress,” says Bob Miller, executive director of AT&Ts communications-technology research department, “so theres a drive to explore ways of delivering better care at lower cost.” And greater convenience for both doctor and patient: If a physician notices, for instance, that a blood-pressure medication isnt working, or if the patient isnt taking the drugs regularly, shell be able to arrange a videoconference with the patient to discuss solutions.

AT&T isnt alone in exploring telemedicine technology, and the good news is that firms in this growing niche are banding together. AT&T is a member of the Continua Health Alliance — the group also includes Bayer, Cisco, GE, IBM, and Novartis — which is working to make medical-monitoring devices interoperable.

via AT&Ts Telehealth Wirelessly Monitors Patients Health | Fast Company.