FDA Approves New Blood Glucose Monitor for Apple Mobile Devices

New blood glucose monitoring system transfers data to iOS devices using the headphone jack, rather than an adaptor or other technology.

A quarter-sized blood glucose monitoring system that connects to the headphone jack of Apple mobile devices recently received FDA approval.

The Gmate Smart meter, manufactured by Philosys, Inc, provides diabetes management directly through its free mobile app for iOS devices. The monitoring system does not require an adapter or Bluetooth device, according to a press release from the company.

The app and meter system offer goal setting and graphing features, as well as the ability to email or text blood glucose test results to a health care provider directly.

A Brookings Institution Center for Technology Innovation study cited in the release noted the potential for mobile technologies to reduce medical errors, control costs, and improve patients’ overall experience.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 40% of the population aged 20 years or older will develop type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) within a lifetime, with higher risk for patients in certain ethnic groups. Despite this, a cross-sectional study published in the April 15, 2014, issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine found the proportion of undiagnosed diabetes cases decreased significantly.

Although diabetes tracking apps are not new, they offer pharmacists the opportunity to counsel patients on new methods of documenting health information. A study presented at the 74^th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association found intense, pharmacist-led diabetes clinics helped patients with T2DM improve glycemic control.