Danville, Pa.-based Geisinger launched a study to test an algorithm for vocal biomarkers that can help detect exacerbations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.
The one-year research study examines artificial intelligence-powered voice analysis technology created by Healthymize, a health information technology startup. Study participants are required to perform daily voice recordings and fill out questionnaires to monitor their COPD.
"If we detect changes in a patient's health condition earlier, we can reduce hospitalization and administer care in a timely manner at home," said Paul F. Simonelli, MD, PhD, chair of pulmonary and critical care medicine at Geisinger, according to a news release. "We know that early detection of exacerbation improves outcomes, and Healthymize has the potential to present an easy-to-use solution that monitors patients from home."