Revolutionizing Telemedicine: The New SmartGate Video Chat Module
The wave of digital transformation in healthcare has ushered in new methods of delivering medical services. Cleanly positioned at the forefront of this movement is SmartGate Co., Ltd., a Tokyo-based medical DX solutions company. Led by CEO Yukio Hanatani, SmartGate has announced the development of a revolutionary WebRTC-compliant video chat module that is set to enhance its online medical consultation system, SmartCure, and its next-generation monitoring system, WearSafe, starting from June 2025.
Addressing Existing Challenges in Telehealth
Historically, SmartCure allowed medical institutions to choose from established platforms like Cisco Webex and Zoom for video consultations. However, these solutions come with their own set of challenges. For instance, hospitals with many doctors face cumbersome licensing requirements that necessitate individual licenses for each physician. This trend can lead to unpredictable costs, especially when licenses are needed for seldom-used doctors. Additionally, the high prices of traditional video chat licenses have posed significant barriers to implementing online consultations in many healthcare institutions.
Moreover, patient inquiries relating to downloading and installing applications from app stores have created additional hurdles in the push for telemedicine adoption. To alleviate these issues, SmartGate set out to develop an independent solution utilizing WebRTC.
Unveiling the WebRTC-Based Video Chat Module
The newly developed video chat module will be completely browser-based, requiring no app download or installation. This allows for seamless access via web browsers for consultations, enabling 1-on-1 interactions or even meetings with up to 10 participants. This means healthcare professionals can easily connect with primary care physicians, specialists, counselors, and family members regardless of their locations.
Privacy also remains a priority; SmartGate’s module incorporates features like background mosaics to maintain confidentiality during consultations. Additionally, recording capabilities provide a reliable method for managing medical records effectively. Furthermore, by autumn 2025, the system is slated for integration with AI applications that will facilitate features such as speaker recognition, text transcription, and output in SOAP format.
Key Features of the New Module
- - WebRTC-based Browser Solution: Users can access the system via their smartphones without requiring app downloads, supporting both iOS and Android.
- - Multi-Participant Capability: Conduct multi-location consultations with up to 10 participants concurrently.
- - Privacy Features: Background mosaic and recording capabilities are integrated to protect patient privacy and manage medical records.
- - Input/Output Flexibility: Compatible with electronic stethoscopes and offers device switching options.
Timeline for Rollout and Pricing
The video chat module will begin to be rolled out to clinics and hospitals utilizing SmartCure services in June 2025, with WearSafe enhancements planned within the fiscal year. The pricing is structured as follows:
- - For Clinics: 1,000 JPY (per medical institution, unlimited users/devices)
- - For Hospitals: 2,000 JPY (same conditions apply)
Note: These prices are exempt from taxes and pertain to options tied to SmartCure agreements; standalone offerings will be discussed separately upon inquiry.
Contact Details
For more information or inquiries, interested parties can reach out to SmartGate at their development and sales office in Chiyoda, Tokyo, or through their communication channels:
Through these innovations, SmartGate is making great strides towards bridging the gap between healthcare providers and patients, ensuring that quality care is accessible, regardless of distance.