Implantsconnect

Implantsconnect is a term used to describe a conceptual framework for securely linking implanted medical devices to external systems for monitoring, data exchange, and remote management. It envisions interoperability among devices from different manufacturers through standardized data models and secure channels, allowing clinicians to access real-time telemetry, adjust therapy within approved limits, and collect anonymized data for research.

Core components include the implanted telemetry module, a patient gateway or smartphone, cloud-based processing and storage, and clinician interfaces. Data types include device status, physiologic measurements, alarms, and event logs. Communication may use medical-grade wireless links, secure internet protocols via gateways, and standardized data formats to enable cross-vendor interoperability.

Security and privacy are central concerns. Implementations require strong authentication, encryption, auditable access, consent management, and compliance with privacy laws. Risk management for software and hardware, software lifecycle processes, and incident response are integral. Regulatory oversight varies by jurisdiction; devices undergo medical device approvals, while data handling adheres to applicable privacy and security standards.

Status: There is no universal implantsconnect standard. The concept appears in discussions of remote monitoring, medical IoT, and interoperability initiatives, but real-world deployments are typically device- or vendor-specific. When implemented, they often leverage broader standards such as HL7 FHIR for data exchange and ISO/IEC 27001 for information security, alongside device-specific regulatory requirements.

See also remote patient monitoring, medical device interoperability, HL7 FHIR, Bluetooth Low Energy in medicine.