For most, the regularity of our heartbeat never crosses our minds. That’s why it may surprise you to learn that every month about 10,000 Americans^[i] with heart failure or an arrhythmia have an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implanted to continuously monitor their heart rhythm and deliver a life-saving shock to prevent sudden death, if needed.

 

These life-saving devices are powered by batteries that typically need to be replaced every few years and come at a price that isn’t always covered by insurance. At age 33, Emily Herman has already paid nearly $20,000 in out-of-pocket medical bills for her three heart device replacements. The batteries in the first two devices only lasted two to five years. As a result, her savings account isn’t just dedicated to her children’s college funds, but also for the next inevitable ‒ yet unpredictable ‒ replacement procedure.

 

To lessen the burden for patients like Emily, medical device companies have been working to advance technology to extend the life of ICD batteries to last nearly two times as long as previous devices.^2,3 In fact, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the UK organization that provides advice to improve health care, recently issued guidance recommending use of a device powered by Boston Scientific EnduraLife Battery Technology, which is expected to offer millions in cost savings over five years.

 

Emily and Dr. Ken Stein, Chief Medical Officer, Rhythm Management, Boston Scientific joined me to discuss their personal experiences and how advancements in technology are helping to improve outcomes for patients around the globe.

Innovative Medical Technology

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Innovative Medical Technology