At $499, Thinklabs’ device can capture the data and display it in a format for teaching and rhythm strip tracings, showing vital information such as an s4 heart sound. This digital file can be shared, stored, and even imported into an electronic medical record. There is an app feature that allows for importing into mobile SMS apps such as WhatsApp, allowing the operator to share for expert interpretation or a second opinion.

The Digital Otoscope. There are a few different iterations of this, but the most prominent example is CellScope’s smartphone attachment. As is the case for a number of new medical devices, the CellScope Oto leverages the core technology present in the smartphone to deliver very clear images of the tympanic membrane. Providers can acquire and interpret these images at the bedside already through direct visualization. But now, they can compare these to images taken by the family from home using the same device. This also provides the opportunity to leverage telemedicine by sending images to subspecialists in those rare cases where immediate consultation is required.

This technology also gives a few new advantages not previously available. One, it allows images to be stored in the electronic medical record to confidently document physical exam findings instead of just descriptions of what is being seen. Additionally, the images can follow the patient back to the primary care clinic so that provider can monitor any changes that may have occurred in the interim period. The CellScope is priced at $79.

The Digital Ophthalmoscope. The fundoscopic examination is a challenging part of the physical examination. Operator skill, the patient’s pupillary anatomy, and lack of mydriatic agents all become less important when a digital ophthalmoscope is used. There are stand-alone devices that produce more complete digital images or hybrids that can be used in conjunction with a smartphone. It is worth noting here that one of the challenges manufacturers have when dealing with smartphone-based attachments is the sometimes impossibility of keeping up with ever-changing form factors in smartphone design.

These devices improve view of the retina, and similar to other digital otoscopes, having these images allows physicians to employ teleconsults more effectively and document in the medical record more accurately. To be discussed in more detail later, deep learning and computer vision will be able to help identify disease processes such as diabetic retinopathy. Thus, expert-level guidance will eventually be embedded in devices such as this. The iExaminer PanOptic from Welch Allyn is more than $500 with an iPhone adapter.