Smart Meter launches radar-based ambient health monitoring system

Smart Meter launches radar-based ambient health monitoring system: ©Toowongsa - stock.adobe.com

Smart Meter has introduced iAmbientHealth, a new ambient sensor that uses radar technology to monitor patients without the need for wearables or cameras, the company announced.

The cellular-enabled device tracks vital signs such as heart rate, respiration, movement, and bed exits, allowing providers to receive continuous, real-time health insights without patient interaction. Smart Meter said the system is designed to address key challenges in remote patient monitoring, including patient adherence, privacy concerns, and usability.

“iAmbientHealth is a game-changer,” said Casey Pittock, CEO of Smart Meter. “We’ve eliminated the need for wearables and cameras, giving providers a powerful tool that works silently in the background. It’s the future of remote care—private, predictive, and effortless.”

The sensor’s AI-driven software can predict declines in patient health and potential emergency events up to seven days in advance, according to the company. In a study of more than 200 patients, Smart Meter reported the technology predicted more than 75% of hospital transfers and reduced hospitalizations by half.

The system integrates with Smart Meter’s Smart Solutions Platform and the PointClickCare EHR, enabling RPM companies, long-term care providers, and other health care organizations to view sensor data alongside traditional cellular-enabled vitals. The company said iAmbientHealth qualifies for reimbursement under Remote Patient Monitoring and Chronic Care Management CPT codes.

Already deployed in skilled nursing facilities, iAmbientHealth is also available for home use. Smart Meter said early adopters have reported improved outcomes, especially among patients unwilling or unable to use wearable devices.

With the launch, the company said it has reinforced its role in advancing next-generation patient monitoring with secure cellular technology.

Remote patient monitoring expands with new approaches

The launch of radar-based sensors comes as the remote patient monitoring sector continues to evolve beyond traditional devices. While wearables and connected medical equipment remain widely used, health systems and technology developers are increasingly looking at ways to make monitoring less obtrusive for patients while still capturing clinically useful data.

One of the biggest barriers to adoption has been adherence. Patients often abandon wearable devices because they find them uncomfortable, forget to use them, or dislike the sense of being constantly tracked. Passive systems—such as sensors that blend into the home environment—are gaining traction as a way to collect data without requiring patient action.

Another driver is predictive analytics. By pairing advanced monitoring technology with artificial intelligence, providers can identify health risks earlier and intervene before conditions worsen. This shift from reactive to proactive care aligns with broader efforts in healthcare to reduce hospitalizations, manage chronic disease more effectively, and control costs.

Privacy also remains central to innovation in this space. Unlike camera-based systems, new monitoring tools are increasingly designed to capture health data without compromising personal space. The emphasis is on balancing continuous oversight with patient dignity and comfort.

As reimbursement frameworks expand to cover more forms of remote care, industry observers expect adoption to accelerate. Health systems are likely to deploy a mix of devices—ranging from cellular-enabled wearables to ambient sensors—to meet the needs of diverse patient populations, particularly those with chronic illnesses or cognitive and physical limitations.