EarSwitch has been chosen to participate in the UK’s Innovative Devices Access Pathway pilot, a program designed to expedite access to cutting-edge medical devices for the NHS.
Among the eight devices selected for the pilot is the EarSwitch EarMetrics-Oximetry, which addresses the issue of pulse oximeters being less reliable for individuals with darker skin tones.
By measuring oxygen levels from the inner ear canal, the solution provides more accurate readings as this site is not pigmented regardless of skin color. In addition to eliminating racial bias, the in-ear placement may also offer more precise readings as it is less affected by external factors such as temperature, movement, and blood circulation compared to finger and ear lobe monitors.
Developed with funding from the UKRI Biomedical Catalyst and UKRI Healthy Ageing Challenge, the EarMetrics-Oximetry’s inclusion in the pilot program will enable EarSwitch to expedite its technology and enhance health outcomes for patients.
The company believes that its in-ear sensor will set a new standard of care for individuals with acute respiratory conditions, including asthma, Covid, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Dr. Nick Gompertz, founder of EarSwitch, stated, “We are committed to creating an oximeter that enables healthcare professionals to provide equitable healthcare and ultimately save more lives. We are incredibly proud that the EarMetrics-Oximetry will be part of the groundbreaking IDAP scheme, which we see as recognition of its potential for the NHS and its millions of patients.”
The Innovative Devices Access Pathway pilot, which received funding from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), was launched in September 2023 and is a collaboration between DHSC, Health Technology Wales (HTW), Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), NHS England (NHSE), National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), Office of Life Sciences (OLS), and Scottish Health Technologies Group (SHTG).
EarSwitch was among the 25 digital health start-ups to advance to the virtual heats stage of Digital Health Rewired Pitchfest 2024.
