American Respiratory Labs, a California-based mobile pulmonary function testing (PFT) company, is now performing sophisticated lung assessments in patients’ homes using portable devices. The move means that patients are no longer limited to having PFT testing done in hospital-based labs.
The EasyOne PRO device, developed by ndd Medical Technologies, Inc., performs diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) testing, spirometry and full lung volumes in about 20 minutes. The compact unit, measuring 12 square inches, also aids the mobile lab personnel who handle multiple homes each day, some requiring access to third- and fourth-floor walkups.
The device is ready as soon as it is turned on, according to American Respiratory Labs, which noted that the accurate ultrasound technology eliminates calibration and maintenance. Following testing, software is used to input PFT results into a patient’s electronic health record.
At-home spirometry is often performed to assess a patient’s need for oxygen. DLCO testing can determine whether shortness of breath is caused by respiratory or cardiac disease, or to differentiate between asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, for appropriate treatment.
The global point-of-care market is expected to grow 9.3 percent annually from 2013 to 2018, and to reach $27.5 billion by 2018, according to research firm MarketsandMarkets.