Mobile communications provider Qualcomm Inc., San Diego, Calif., will help deliver life-saving medical data using its CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) technology

over a wireless network.
CDMA is the basic technology used by such wireless carriers as Sprint and Verizon.
In this case, Qualcomm will supply wireless network management services to CardioNet, a cardiac monitoring service moving critical data between the CardioNet center and mobile monitoring devices. CardioNet is the first company to develop and introduce a fully mobile, continuous cardiac monitoring service -- allowing heartbeat-by-heartbeat ECG monitoring, as patients go about their daily activities.
The CardioNet service enables physicians to select monitored events and the level and timing of response -- from routine daily reporting to detailed statistical reports. Reports, available by Internet, email, fax or mail, are designed to allow rapid review of cardiac arrhythmia events, assisting physicians in making a diagnosis, assessing the severity of a known cardiac rhythm problem, or in managing treatment.
"Because many heart rhythm problems occur infrequently, continuous access
to ECG information, as the patient goes about normal daily activities, is key in diagnosing and treating cardiac arrhythmias. A recent clinical study showed that CardioNet discovered significant, previously undetected cardiac problems in 53% of patients who had been unsuccessfully monitored through other methods," said James M. Sweeney, chairman and chief executive officer of CardioNet.
"For over 14 years, Qualcomm has been supplying reliable, always-on
wireless monitoring and data management solutions to corporations worldwide," said Chris Wolfe, president of Qualcomm Wireless Business Solutions.