HearO app uses AI to predict heart failure deterioration

A medical-grade smartphone app is currently in clinical trials to assess how it can predict heart failure deterioration using AI technology.

The HearO app from Cordio Medical uses voice signature technology with advanced artificial intelligence technology to detect and predict hospitalization risks for congestive heart failure, before the appearance of symptoms.

The early signs of congestive heart failure often go undetected, but by speaking into a smartphone, patients could be able to ensure they seek earlier medical intervention if their condition deteriorates.

HearO uses medical-grade technology with more than 80% accuracy in detecting heart decompensation events an average of 18 days in advance. This allows patients to seek therapy as early as possible in order to avoid hospitalisation for congestive heart failure issues.

The app can be used by patients in remission from the condition. Each day they record proprietary phrases into the smartphone app. Using this data, HearO will create a patient-specific baseline which will be updated daily as more recordings are made.

The AI technology is deployed to measure the patient’s speech patterns in order to detect the early buildup of lung fluid.

If a patient deviates from their pre-defined baseline it could indicate altered lung fluids. In this instance, the patient’s clinician will be alerted in real-time. This allows the clinician to provide patient-specific support, such as medication changes or an in-person visit to help slow any detected deterioration.

By catching any sign of deterioration early, HearO can help increase life expectancy for congestive heart failure patients.

The app is currently in US clinical trials. It has already received a Breakthrough Device Designation from the FDA and is on track to receive approval by 2024. Cordio Medical intends to expand into the UK this year.

Early intervention for heart failure patients has also been implemented at North Tees NHS Foundation Trust. The trust has implemented Health Call’s Heart Failure@Home solution, which allows patients to manage their condition at home with remote monitoring technology, helping to identify when early intervention can improve outcomes.