Fitbit introduces the low-cost emergency ventilator, Fitbit Flow with Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) as an emergency alternative due to the urgent need of supplies.
The need for low-cost high-quality medical resources is immediate as the global demand surges forth. Ventilators for example, is one of the many other medical supplies dwindling down in some hospitals battling the novel coronavirus. The US hospitals’ shortage for ventilators will only worsen in the upcoming months according to the New England Journal of Medicine.
Fitbit recognizes this urgency and has thus tapped into their in-house expertise in advanced sensor development and hardware design to create the Fitbit Flow. Furthermore, Fitbit has also been restructuring their infrastructure and manufacturing lines from producing Fitbit devices to Fitbit Flows.
The Fitbit Flow is an automatic resuscitator inspired by the MIT E-Vent Design Toolbox and grounded on specifications for Rapidly Manufactured Ventilation Systems. Fitbit made sure to consult with the Oregon Health & Science University that treated coronavirus patients providing public health expertise. At the same time, Fitbit also worked with MassGeneralBrigham Center for COVID Innovation working group for practitioner needs.
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And thus, the Fitbit Flow was formed and obtained the FDA’s Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). The Fitbit Flow starts as standard resuscitator bags with additional instruments, sensors, and alarms for an automated compressions and patient monitoring. It’s also designed to be intuitive and easy-to-use considering the opinions of seasoned practitioners.
While the Fitbit flow isn’t the only ventilator alternative available, Fitbit believes that it leads among others in its price range. Fitbit aims to provide for hospitals around the world with ventilator shortages. Even so, it’s to be stressed that Fitbit is to be used only if a traditional commercial ventilator is unavailable.
As of now, Fitbit is in talks with state and federal agencies to understand and analyze current domestic needs. They’ve also announced plans to work with U.S. and global aid organizations ahead in time.
Learn more about Fitbit in their Official Website.
