Eko Health, Inc. (Eko), a leader in the field of AI-driven technology for detecting heart and lung diseases, has officially received regulatory approval (UKCA marking) and commenced the deployment of their AI-powered technology on the frontlines in the United Kingdom (UK). The TRICORDER program, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and led by researchers at Imperial College London, will be introducing Eko's AI technology (marketed as SENSORA™ in the U.S.) to primary care practices across the UK. This pioneering implementation is aimed at supporting healthcare professionals in assessing heart failure (HF), valvular heart disease (VHD), and atrial fibrillation (AFib) and, in turn, serving as a clinical decision support tool for referring patients for echocardiograms.

During visits to their general practitioners (GPs), patients will undergo a brief, non-invasive cardiac examination using an Eko digital stethoscope and an app powered by the company's AI. When Eko's AI detects potential signs of cardiac disease, GPs can promptly initiate further diagnostic tests and potentially life-saving treatments. The current gold standard for detecting heart failure involves a blood test (NT-proBNP); however, when ordered alone, it often leads to a prolonged diagnostic process that may not result in early diagnosis and treatment for those who need it most. This innovative deployment has the potential to enhance heart disease outcomes for millions of individuals in communities across the UK.

 Eko's AI technology combines a digital stethoscope with an electrocardiogram (ECG) and advanced machine learning algorithms for analyzing ECG and heart sound data. The TRICORDER program utilizes clinically validated algorithms capable of detecting reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF), which is indicative of heart failure, as well as structural murmurs that indicate valvular heart disease and atrial fibrillation. These algorithms empower healthcare providers to make more confident decisions about their patients' heart health. Eko's AI technology is already available for commercial use in the U.S. and is marketed to health systems under the name SENSORA™. Furthermore, the company's algorithm for HFrEF detection is currently undergoing review by the U.S. FDA for 510(k) clearance, with plans to market it under SENSORA™ once the clearance is obtained.

Source: prnewswire.com