European Market for Patient-Monitoring Devices

In spite of the crucial role of patient-monitoring devices in the intensive care units (ICUs) of hospitals, the market for these devices is facing problems in Europe as national governments come under increasing pressure to reduce the number of hospitals in their countries. The market is rapidly reaching maturity, and future growth is becoming dependent upon the replacement of existing equipment, according to a new report from Frost & Sullivan (Palo Alto, CA, USA), a global consulting company.

Manufacturers of patient-monitoring devices need to maximize replacement opportunities by increasing R&D expenditures and developing advanced equipment that can replace existing devices. One trend in the market is the growing consolidation of companies in the form of mergers and acquisitions. Certain companies have a significant presence in one particular field, such as blood glucose monitoring, for example. Also, remote patient monitoring is due to expand because of the increasing number of aging baby boomers who might require intensive home care. More than 18% of the European population is now over 65.

"Disease management systems are the future of patient monitoring,” noted Aarati Ajay, a research analyst with Frost & Sullivan. "Systems with inherent abilities to monitor and interact with patients are expected to play a decisive role in the growth of the patient monitoring market.”

With the need to identify alternatives to hospital care, remote-patient monitoring could provide a timely solution. New technologic developments could also increase the market, as new wireless technology and remote monitoring are now doing.




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