PharmaSmart finds consumers value clinical validation at blood pressure kiosks
PharmaSmart, a Rochester, N.Y., manufacturer of health kiosks, released findings from a user impact study conducted in conjunction with Dixon Schwabl + Company, a consumer research and market analytics firm, showing that clinical validation of readings from blood pressure kiosks was “extremely important” to 78% of consumers surveyed.
PharmaSmart said the finding reinforces its value proposition as retail pharmacy moves beyond recreational health kiosks to offer integrated, clinical-grade health screening services.
"Recreational kiosks are not independently verified for blood pressure accuracy, which undermines vitals reporting and undermines the quality of patient care," said Josh Sarkis, general manager, and chief strategy officer at PharmaSmart. "Although many blood pressure kiosks are not clinically validated, this research reveals that clinical validation is critical to the individuals using the devices."
[Read more: Study: Social determinants of health contribute to hypertension]
According to the study, 81% of users will share their validated PharmaSmart blood pressure readings with their pharmacist, and 92% will share the readings with their physician. “This confirms that patients will share vitals data if they can trust the device readings,” said Sarkis. “This is great news for pharmacists looking to practice at the top of their license, and for physicians looking for clinical grade vitals between office visits.”
"The cost of hypertension in the United States is up to $198 billion annually, in large part due to lack of discovery and slow or missed diagnosis," said Sarkis. "A staggering 46% of people with high BP are unaware of it, and 76% of people with high BP are uncontrolled. Our patented and clinically validated blood pressure kiosks make it easier for people everywhere to do what's right and put their health first."
[Read more: Lupin receives FDA OK for generic Edarbi]
PharmaSmart is a blood pressure kiosk product with a patented universal cuff that allows management of all patients, including obese individuals. It also track weight and BMI, conducts patient surveys and can be customized to integrate with retail apps, promote clinical services and virtual care and connect patients to the resources they need to live healthier lives.
PharmaSmart currently serves more than 7,000 locations across North America, including leading retail stores such as Brookshire Grocery Company, Price Chopper, Walmart, Kinney Drugs and others. PharmaSmart also supports hospitals, medical clinics, military bases and worksites internationally.