Application of IoT in Healthcare – a CPS Case Study
Application of IoT in Healthcare – a CPS Case Study
Introduction
● The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of interconnected devices that collect
and exchange data in real time.
● In healthcare, IoT plays a crucial role in creating Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), where
physical health parameters are monitored and managed digitally.
● This integration enhances patient care, reduces operational costs, and improves disease
management.
Scenario
● A hospital implements a CPS-enabled Remote Patient Monitoring System using IoT
devices for elderly patients with chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, hypertension).
System Components
● Wearable IoT devices continuously track ECG, blood pressure, and blood glucose.
● Cloud server stores and analyzes real-time data.
● Mobile apps/web portals allow doctors and family to monitor patients remotely.
● Alert system sends emergency notifications in case of abnormalities.
Working
1. Sensors on the patient’s body collect vital data.
2. IoT devices send data to the cloud via secure communication.
3. Machine learning algorithms analyze trends and detect anomalies.
4. Doctors are notified immediately if any critical change is detected.
5. Feedback is sent to smart drug dispensers or caregivers if necessary.
Benefits
● Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous tracking reduces emergency visits.
● Early Diagnosis: Anomalies are detected before symptoms become critical.
● Patient Mobility: Patients can be monitored from home.
● Resource Optimization: Reduces burden on hospitals and staff.
● Personalized Treatment: Data-driven decisions improve care quality.
Challenges
● Data Security and Privacy: Patient data must be protected under HIPAA/GDPR.
● Interoperability: Devices from different manufacturers must work together.
● Network Reliability: Uninterrupted connectivity is essential.
● Scalability: Systems must handle thousands of devices and patients.
Scenario
● A large hospital deploys a Smart ICU System using IoT and CPS to monitor critical
patients.
System Components
● Vital sign monitors: Track heart rate, oxygen level, respiratory rate, etc.
● Bed sensors: Detect patient movement or pressure changes.
● Smart infusion pumps: Automatically adjust medication dosage.
● Cameras and audio systems: Allow remote consultation.
Working
● IoT sensors collect real-time data from ICU patients.
● Data is analyzed in a local edge server to reduce latency.
● Alerts are sent to nurses’ tablets or phones for immediate action.
● AI algorithms assist in predicting possible deterioration (e.g., sepsis alert).
● Central dashboard allows doctors to monitor multiple ICUs remotely.
Benefits
● Faster response to emergencies.
● Reduced workload on ICU staff.
● Early detection of critical conditions.
● Improved resource allocation (e.g., ventilator or nurse availability).
Scenario
● A pharmacy chain deploys IoT-enabled pillboxes for patients with chronic illnesses to
improve medication adherence.
System Components
● Smart pillbox: Equipped with sensors and connectivity.
● Mobile app: Sends reminders and tracks intake.
● Cloud storage: Maintains logs for doctors and caregivers.
● Feedback system: Alerts caregivers if medicine is missed.
Working
● The pillbox alerts the patient when it’s time to take medicine.
● If the medicine is not taken within a time window, a notification is sent to the caregiver or
family.
● Data is analyzed to detect patterns of non-adherence.
● Doctors can adjust prescriptions based on adherence trends.
Benefits
● Reduces hospital readmissions due to missed doses.
● Helps elderly or dementia patients stay on schedule.
● Improves treatment outcomes for chronic diseases.
● Builds accountability through shared data with caregivers.