Philips aims to reduce refits

PITTSBURGH - Philips Respironics offered a sneak peek of the Philips Respironics Mask Selector (PRMS) at SLEEP 2019 in June, a tool that uses 3D technology to find the best mask for patients.

The PRMS uses a proprietary algorithm; 3D scanning through an exclusive partner, Bellus3D; and a questionnaire to help providers recommend a personalized mask type, and mask and cushion size.
“What we're trying to do is move mask design from an art to a science,” said Kevin Coldren, director of product marketing for obstructive sleep apnea for Philips. “In the past, it's been more trial and error. This is a more data-driven approach.”

Philips will offer the tool through a Microsoft tablet—a Surface Pro or Go—which has a USB connection for the Bellus3D Face Camera Pro.

To better accommodate the results of the tool, Philips has also expanded the range of sizes for its DreamWear nasal masks to 11, Coldren says.

“It will make a recommendation across our portfolio, but now we're offering wide or half sizes for DreamWear to cover everyone more globally,” he said. “You could fit everyone in three sizes, but not everyone is going to be happy.”

The tool helps to alleviate some major pain points for providers, Coldren says, including mask refits and swap-outs that are time consuming and resource intensive.

“The refit rate is between 25% to 30% from what we hear,” he said. “We're doing everything we can to help reduce that rate for them.”

Philips is in “limited launch phase” for the tool and the expanded size range for the DreamWear, Coldren says.

“We're excited,” he said. “This technology has evolved to a point where it's more available and more affordable. It's an idea that has come a long way in the past few years.”