Abbott introduces NeuroSphere Virtual Clinic, first-of-its-kind remote neuromodulation patient-care technology in the U.S.

Abbott announced the U.S. launch of NeuroSphere Virtual Clinic, a first-of-its-kind technology that allows patients to communicate with physicians, ensure proper settings and functionality, and receive new treatment settings remotely as needed. Approved by the FDA, the NeuroSphere Virtual Clinic has the potential to increase access to optimal treatment for patients suffering from chronic pain or movement disorders who don’t live close to a care provider, have difficulty accessing care, or are unable to go to the doctor because of circumstances like COVID-19. The NeuroSphere Virtual Clinic can also be helpful for people who live in areas — both rural and urban — with inadequate access to medical services. On average people living with movement disorders will travel over 150 miles to access specialists offering deep brain stimulation (DBS). Without alternative solutions, such as digital and/or telehealth options, these patients are more likely to delay or forego much-needed care. NeuroSphere Virtual Clinic brings the convenience and flexibility of telemedicine to neurostimulation therapy, further benefitting chronic pain and movement disorder patients with Abbott devices. Medicare will cover remote programming services as a telehealth benefit through the duration of the public health emergency.. About Neuromodulation : Neuromodulation is an essential treatment that works by delivering electrical treatment directly to a targeted area to alter nerve activity. Neuromodulation is often recommended for patients who suffer from chronic pain and certain movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremors. Currently, more than 50 million Americans suffer from chronic pain, while almost one million people live with Parkinson’s disease4 and an estimated 7 million people live with an essential tremor.