Amazon sells exclusive diabetes and hypertension devices

Amazon has launched an exclusive range of medical devices to help people manage their diabetes and hypertension at home.

The Choice devices, produced by the healthcare consultancy, Arcadia Group – which is not affiliated with the British fashion brand of the same name –include blood glucose monitors, blood pressure monitors and test strips.

Choice estimates that diabetes and hypertension affect up to 130 million Americans and hopes that its devices will help those afflicted to benefit from daily monitoring and progress tracking over time.

Conventional models and devices enabled with Bluetooth connectivity features will be available to buy, with pricing said to offer better value over devices that can be bought in pharmacies, according to the company.

Bob Guest, CEO of Arcadia Group, said: "The Choice brand is all about accessible wellness. Consumers no longer need to drive to a store to stand in-line and purchase their medical devices and supplies.

"Now, in the privacy of their home, consumers can review, compare and purchase the products of their choice. No insurance is required. Therefore, customers have the freedom of choice. They will no longer be told by their insurance company what brand they can buy. Choice is freedom."

Guest went on to describe the products as "best in class and very affordable". He said the company intends to incorporate voice-driven measurement interpretation as well as individualize wellness recommendations via Amazon’s Echo home speaker devices.

"This is all possible with Alexa, and will provide patients with a wellness experience not available until now," he said.

Amazon is expanding its health-related products to capture more of the market. In June this year, the online retailer announced it is buying PillPack for $1 billion.

The move is expected to disrupt the pharmacy market by delivering pre-sorted medicines and refills to customers’ doors.

PillPack describes itself as "a full-service pharmacy that delivers a better, simpler experience for people managing multiple medications". The firm liaises with doctors and also provides customer support.

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