GB2607265A

GB2607265A - Outputting a notification

Info

Publication number: GB2607265A
Application number: GB2104641.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Ndemera Fungai
Original assignee: Flame Lily Holdings Ltd
Current assignee: Flame Lily Holdings Ltd
Priority date: 2021-03-31
Filing date: 2021-03-31
Publication date: 2022-12-07
Also published as: GB202104641D0

Abstract

An apparatus for outputting a notification based on a user health parameter receives a parameter measurement related to a user (e.g. blood glucose level 301 or blood pressure), performs a first comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is greater than a first threshold, performs a second comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is less than a second threshold, and outputs a notification 304 in dependence on the first and comparisons. The value of the thresholds is dependent on the health status of the user. Multiple further thresholds and notifications may be provided. The health status may be whether the user is taking insulin 302, if they are diabetic, their age etc. The notification may be providing information (e.g. a parameter measurement, symptoms of hypoglycaemia or hypertension), an indication of health risk, an indication of urgency, contacting an emergency service, providing an instruction (e.g. to eat) or booking an appointment.

Description

Outputting a notification

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to an apparatus for outputting a notification, in particular an apparatus for outputting a notification based on a user health parameter.

Backqround to the Disclosure

Conventionally, people with health problems have visited healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses, in person at clinics or hospitals. This enables interaction with healthcare professionals; however, it requires travelling that takes time and may be difficult for someone with a health problem. This can be particularly problematic for those people with health problems that require regular check-ups.

More recently, systems have been developed that enable online consultations. With these systems a user is able to interact with a healthcare professional via a phone call or a video call. While this precludes the healthcare professional from physically interacting with the user, this downside is offset by the increased convenience of a user being able to attend a consultation remotely.

However, the use of such remote consultations may increase the risk of a symptom being overlooked or an incorrect assessment occurring; therefore, there is a need for remote systems that allow accurate assessment of a user's situation and condition.

Summary of the Disclosure

According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, there is described: an apparatus for outputting a notification based on a user health parameter, the apparatus comprising: means (e.g. a sensor, a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for receiving a parameter measurement related to a user; means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for determining a health status of the user; means (e.g. a processor) for performing a first comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is greater than a first threshold; means (e.g. a processor) for performing a second comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is less than a second threshold; and means (e.g. a communication interface and/or a user interface) for outputting a notification in dependence on the first comparison and the second comparison; wherein the value of the first threshold and/or the second threshold is dependent on the health status of the user.

Preferably, the means for receiving a parameter comprises a sensor.

Preferably, the means for performing the first comparison and/or the second comparison is -2 -arranged to perform the first comparison and/or the second comparison on receipt of the user health parameter.

Preferably, the means for determining a health status comprises means (e.g. a processor and/or a communication interface) for identifying information recorded on a consultation platform, preferably a remote consultation platform.

Preferably, the information is arranged to be alterable by one or more of: the user-and a healthcare professional.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor and/or a communication interface) for altering information on the consultation platform.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor and/or a communication interface) for outputting a request for an appointment with a healthcare professional.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for outputting the parameter measurement.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for outputting an indication of a potential health risk of a user.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) of operating an alarm and/or warning for the 20 user.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for contacting an emergency service.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for contacting an emergency service when the parameter measurement is greater than the first threshold.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for contacting an emergency service when the parameter measurement is less than the second threshold.

Preferably, the apparatus comprises means (e.g. a processor) for performing a third comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is less than a third threshold.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for contacting a third party and/or an emergency contact if the parameter measurement is greater than the second threshold and is less than -3 -the third threshold.

Preferably, the apparatus comprises means (e.g. a processor) for performing a fourth comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is an optimal range.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for outputting an output only to the user if the parameter measurement is in the optimal range.

Preferably, the notification is dependent on the first comparison and the second comparison.

Preferably, the apparatus comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for determining the time since a user has eaten; and means for performing a further comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is less than or equal to a further threshold; wherein the further threshold is dependent on the health status of the user and on the time since the user has eaten.

Preferably, the means for outputting a notification comprises means (e.g. a communication interface) for outputting a notification to a third party.

Preferably, the first threshold is associated with a maximum acceptable value.

Preferably, the second threshold is associated with a minimum acceptable value.

Preferably, the apparatus comprises one or more of: means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for outputting a notification to a third party if the parameter exceeds the first threshold and/or is less than the second threshold; and means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for outputting a notification only to the user if the parameter is less than the first threshold and is greater than the second threshold.

Preferably, the parameter is a blood glucose level.

Preferably, the means for determining the health status of the user comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for determining if the user is taking insulin.

Preferably, each threshold is associated with a Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level of the user.

Preferably, the first threshold is associated with the user having a Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level of greater than 20 millimoles/litre.

Preferably, if the user is not taking insulin, the second threshold is associated with the user having a Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level of less than or equal to 2.5 millimoles/litre; and if the user is taking insulin, the second threshold is associated with the user having a Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level of less than or equal to 4 millimoles/litre. -4 -

Preferably, the parameter is a blood pressure Preferably, the means for determining the health status comprises means (e.g. a processor, a user interface, and/or a communication interface) for determining whether the user is a diabetic.

Preferably, each threshold is associated with a diastolic blood pressure or a systolic blood pressure level of the user.

Preferably, the second threshold is associated with the user having a diastolic blood pressure of less than 60 and/or the second threshold is associated with the user having a systolic blood pressure of less than 90.

Preferably, if the user is a diabetic: the first threshold is associated with the user having a diastolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 85 and/or the first threshold is associated with the user having a systolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 135; and/or if the user is a diabetic with an age of greater than 80: the first threshold is associated with the user having a diastolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 85 and/or the first threshold is associated with the user having a systolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 145; and/or if the user is not a diabetic: the first threshold is associated with the user having a diastolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 120 and/or the first threshold is associated with the user having a systolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 180.

Preferably, the health status comprises an age.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is described a method of outputting a notification based on a user health parameter, the method comprising: receiving a parameter measurement; determining a health status of the user; performing a first comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is greater than a first threshold; and performing a second comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is less than a second threshold; and outputting a notification in dependence on the first comparison and the second comparison; wherein the value of the first threshold and/or the second threshold is dependent on the health status of the user.

Any feature described as being carried out by an apparatus, an application, and a device may be carried out by any of an apparatus, an application, or a device. Where multiple apparatuses are described, each apparatus may be located on a single device.

Any feature in one aspect of the disclosure may be applied to other aspects of the invention, in any appropriate combination. In particular, method aspects may be applied to apparatus aspects, and vice versa. -5 -

Furthermore, features implemented in hardware may be implemented in software, and vice versa. Any reference to software and hardware features herein should be construed accordingly.

Any apparatus feature as described herein may also be provided as a method feature, and vice versa. As used herein, means plus function features may be expressed alternatively in terms of their corresponding structure, such as a suitably programmed processor and associated memory.

It should also be appreciated that particular combinations of the various features described and defined in any aspects of the disclosure can be implemented and/or supplied and/or used independently.

The disclosure extends to methods and/or apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The disclosure will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Description of the Drawinqs

Figure 1 shows a computer device on which the systems and methods described herein may be implemented.

Figure 2 shows a flowchart for a method of updating user information following a consultation. Figure 3 show a method of notifying a user of a potential problem.

Figures 4a -4f show a method of determining whether a user's blood glucose parameter exceeds a threshold.

Figures 5a -Sc show a method of determining whether a user's blood pressure parameter exceeds a threshold.

Description of the preferred embodiments

Referring to Figure 1, the systems and methods described herein are typically implemented using a computer device 1000. In particular, each user of the systems described herein may use such a computer device to interact with the systems and with other users of the systems. The computer device may be implemented using, for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, and/or an accessory such as a smartwatch. In some embodiments, the computer device comprises health monitoring equipment, such as a blood glucose meter.

Each computer device 1000 typically comprises a processor in the form of a CPU 1002, a communication interface 1004, a memory 1006, storage 1008, removable storage 1010 and a user interface 1012 coupled to one another by a bus 1014. The user interface comprises a -6 -display 1016 and an input/output device, which in this embodiment is a keyboard 1018 and a mouse 1020.

The CPU 1002 executes instructions, including instructions stored in the memory 1006, the storage 1008, and/or the removable storage 1010 The communication interface 1004 is typically an Ethernet network adaptor coupling the bus 1014 to an Ethernet socket. The Ethernet socket is coupled to a network, such as the Internet. The communication interface facilitates communication between users of the systems disclosed herein. It will be appreciated that any other communication medium may be used by the communication interface, such as area networks, infrared communication, and BluetoothO.

The memory 1006 stores instructions and other information for use by the CPU 1002. The memory is the main memory of the computer device 1000. It usually comprises both Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read Only Memory (ROM).

The storage 1008 provides mass storage for the computer device 1000. In different implementations, the storage is an integral storage device in the form of a hard disk device, a flash memory or some other similar solid state memory device, or an array of such devices.

The removable storage 1010 provides auxiliary storage for the computer device 1000. In different implementations, the removable storage is a storage medium for a removable storage device, such as an optical disk, for example a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD), a portable flash drive or some other similar portable solid state memory device, or an array of such devices.

In other embodiments, the removable storage is remote from the computer device, and comprises a network storage device or a cloud-based storage device.

A computer program product is provided that includes instructions for carrying out aspects of the method(s) described below. The computer program product is stored, at different stages, in any one of the memory 1006, storage device 1008 and removable storage 1010. The storage of the computer program product is non-transitory, except when instructions included in the computer program product are being executed by the CPU 1002, in which case the instructions are sometimes stored temporarily in the CPU or memory. It should also be noted that the removable storage is removable from the computer device 1000, such that the computer program product may be held separately from the computer device from time to time.

Typically, one of the computer devices comprises a server that is arranged to store information relating to one or more users. In particular, this computer device may store information relating to:

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Health conditions of a user, such as a date of diagnosis of a health condition, a status of a procedure, a healthcare professional that a condition has been treated by, medicine that has been prescribed for a condition and additional notes.

- Medication: ongoing or past medication records of users may be stored. This may include medicine names and purposes and/or dosage information, strength, dosing time, start and end times of a prescription, side effects due to medicine and name of doctor/nurse who prescribed medicine.

Allergies/adverse reaction: records of allergies, such as if a patient is allergic due to any medication may be stored. These records may contain an allergy name, a trigger for an allergy, a reaction of an allergy, a data of diagnosis and a frequency of occurrence.

Vaccinations: records of vaccinations that a patient has taken may be stored. This typically comprises storing a reason for vaccination, a vaccination name, a vaccine duration or period of effectiveness, a vaccination date, details of a vaccination, and/or a lot number.

Medical report: details of medical reports of a user may be stored. These reports may comprise a report name, a date of the report, test results relating to the report, and/or notes made by a healthcare professional.

- Surgery/procedure: details of any surgery performed on a patient may be stored. These details may comprise a surgery name, an implant relating to a surgery, a support devices, and/or a diagnosing or operating party.

Lifestyle habits: general lifestyle details of a patient may be stored, including a habit (e.g. smoking), a habit frequency and/or a duration of a habit, basic sanitation availability like water supply and toilets, a religion, a church, a type of exercise and/or an alternative therapy that a user performs.

- Family history: a family history may be stored, this may contain details of family members and their medical health issues.

Emergency details: details of a person to contact in an emergency situation may be stored, such as a name and relation of a contact, an address and/or a contact number.

- Management details: after treating or consulting with a user, a nurse or doctor may be able to fill up information like a review complaint, a review on examination, an impression/diagnosis and/or a review plan.

- Blood pressure: By testing blood pressure and keeping records of it, patients can control their systolic and diastolic pressure. Blood pressure can be viewed on a daily, weekly, monthly and yearly basis with. representation of a graph that gives the clear idea -8 -regarding blood pressure. Heart rate records can also be saved and viewed on a daily, weekly, monthly and yearly basis. Patients can select mood for the day by selecting various available options.

- A blood glucose level: blood glucose level is the concentration of glucose present in the blood. Users are typically able to select a date and a time and record blood glucose details either in mmol/L or mg/dL.

- Calorific or nutritional information: this information may be used to evaluate a blood glucose level. This may comprise meal information, where meals may be added by selecting meal options. Selecting meal options may comprise selecting options from a database. The use of pre-added food items with carbs value in grams makes it easier for users to enter detail about carbs. Users may also be able to add calorie details by selecting various pre-listed activities with time and type. Blood glucose records can be monitored on a daily, weekly, monthly and/or yearly basis. A user may also be able to select a type of medicine that they are taking.

Heart rate: heart rate records can be saved by entering date and time and can be viewed on a daily, weekly, monthly and/or yearly basis. Users may also be able to select a mood for by selecting various available options, which can be used to evaluate a heart rate.

BMI: Body mass index may be calculated based on a height and weight entered by a user. The BMI may be represented using a graph that shows a user changes to BMI over a daily, weekly, monthly and/or yearly basis.

Weight: weight may be added and maintained by a user selecting a date and time and entering a weight. Entered records may be viewed on a daily, weekly, monthly and/or yearly basis.

Temperature: A body temperature may be added and maintained by a user selecting a date and time and adding a temperature. Entered records can be viewed on a daily, weekly, monthly and/or yearly basis.

Typically, users can view and/or add data for each of these types of information. Furthermore, typically healthcare professionals, such as doctors or nurses are able to view and/or add data for each of these types of information. Yet further, system administrators may be able to view and/or Admin can view, add data for each of these types of information.

Some types of information may require certain permissions to view and/or edit. For example, management information can typically be viewed by a user but only edited by a permissioned party, such as a healthcare professional. Furthermore, certain types of information, such as medical reports may be accessible only to healthcare professionals. -9 -

Information may be presented graphically, so that a user is able to view a change in a type of information over a period of time.

By providing a system to which users are able to add and view information it is possible for users to add information to the server that can then be viewed by healthcare professionals in order to determine appropriate actions for the user. For example, a doctor viewing the blood glucose level of a user may be able to recommend a meal plan to that user. In particular, when a patient books an appointment with a healthcare professional, relevant information may be transmitted to that healthcare professional.

In some embodiments, a party may be given permission to access information in dependence on a user input; for example, when booking a consultation, the user may be able asked to authorise a healthcare professional. Authorisation may be one a limited or one-time basis. For example, the healthcare professional may only be able to access the information before and/or during the consultation.

In some embodiments, a party may be provided with a one-time-use password.

Referring to Figure 2, there is described a method 10 of booking a consultation using the system described herein.

In a first step 12, a user requests a consultation. This typically comprises the user transmitting this request via the communication interface of a computer device of the user.

In a second step 14, the information of the user is provided to a healthcare professional. This typically comprises the healthcare professional being sent a time-limited or one-time password so that the healthcare professional is able to access the user's information for only a limited period of time. This may, for example, comprise the healthcare professional being sent a time-limited link that provides access to this information.

Following the consultation, in a third step 16 the information of the user is updated; for example based on notes made by the healthcare professional. The user may then be able to view this information, which may enable the user to follow a health plan.

A benefit of this system is that a user is able to monitor their own health, e.g. by updating their weight and/or blood glucose level on the platform.

Referring to Figure 3, there is described a method 20 of the user monitoring their health.

In a first step 22, the user updates a characteristic of the user, e.g. uploads a blood glucose level.

In a second step 24, the user is notified if this characteristic exceeds a threshold. For example, if a user's blood glucose level is too low, the user may be notified of this. The acceptable levels -10 -of a characteristic (e.g. the threshold) may be determined based on information relating to the user, e.g. medical reports by a healthcare professional.

The notification may comprise suggested actions; for example, the user may be instructed to take medication and/or eat a certain meal.

In some embodiments, the detection of the characteristic exceeding the threshold (e.g. being beneath or above the threshold) results in a transmission being sent to a third party, such as a healthcare professional. This enables a doctor to proactively contact a user if a potential problem is identified.

Referring to Figures 4a -4f, there is shown a method of determining whether a blood glucose parameter exceeds a threshold. The method is typically carried out by a computer device (e.g. a user device or a server device).

In a first step 301, the computer device receives 1000 a blood glucose measurement from a user. For example, the user may enter a blood glucose level or the computer device may receive the measurement from a sensor of the computer device. Typically, the computer device 1000 is arranged to perform the method of Figures 4a -4f upon receipt of a blood glucose measurement. For example, the user may take such a measurement each day and enter it on the consultation platform, at which point the computer device 1000 performs the method of Figures 4a -4f.

In a second step 302, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user is taking insulin.

Typically, this is determined based on the information entered by the user and/or a healthcare professional.

In a third step 303, if the user is not taking insulin, the computer device determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than a first threshold -11.

In a fourth step 304, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than the first threshold Ti, the computer device outputs a first notification.

In a fifth step 305, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is less than or equal to a second threshold T2.

In a sixth step 306, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is less than or equal to the second threshold Tz, the computer device outputs a second notification.

In a seventh step 307, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is less than or equal to a third threshold T3.

In an eighth step 308, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is less than or equal to the third threshold T3, the computer device outputs a third notification.

In a ninth step 309, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user has eaten recently. Typically, this ninth step comprises determining whether the user is within a certain time period of eating (e.g. greater than 90 minutes after eating and/or less than 4 hours before being expected to eat). The ninth step may comprise comparing a current time with a meal time that is part of the information recorded for the user. Equally, the ninth step may comprise identifying a meal time entered by the user.

In a tenth step 311, if the user has not eaten recently, the computer device determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than a fourth threshold -14.

In an eleventh step 312, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than the fourth threshold 14, the computer device outputs a fourth notification.

In a twelfth step 313, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is in a first range Ri.

In a thirteenth step 314, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is in the first range Ri, the computer device outputs a fifth notification.

In an alternative tenth step 321, if the user has eaten recently, the computer device determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than a fifth threshold T5.

In an alternative eleventh step 322, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than the fifth threshold Ts, the computer device outputs a sixth notification.

In an alternative twelfth step 313, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is in a second range R2.

In an alternative thirteenth step 324, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is in the second range 52, the computer device outputs an seventh notification.

If, following the second step 302, the computer device 1000 determines that the user is taking insulin, then in an insulin third step 333, the computer device determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than a sixth threshold Ts.

In an insulin fourth step 334, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than the sixth threshold Ts, the computer device outputs an eighth notification.

In an insulin fifth step 335, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is less than or equal to a seventh threshold T7.

In an insulin sixth step 336, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is less than or equal to the seventh threshold 17, the computer device outputs a ninth notification.

In an insulin seventh step 337, the computer device determines whether the user has eaten recently.

-12 -In an insulin eighth step 341, if the user has not eaten recently, the computer device determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than an eighth threshold Tg.

In an insulin ninth step 342, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than the eighth threshold -19, the computer device outputs an tenth notification.

In an insulin tenth step 343, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is in a third range R. In an insulin eleventh step 344, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is in the third range R3, the computer device outputs an eleventh notification.

In an alternative insulin eighth step 351, if the user has eaten recently, the computer device determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than a ninth threshold T9.

In an alternative insulin ninth step 352, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is greater than the ninth threshold T9, the computer device outputs a twelfth notification.

In an alternative insulin tenth step 353, the computer device determines whether the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is in a fourth range R4.

In an alternative insulin eleventh step 354, if the user's Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level is in the fourth range R4, the computer device outputs a thirteenth notification.

According to the present disclosure, each of the aforementioned ranges and notifications may differ so that the output depends on, for example, one or more of: The time since a user has eaten, e.g. whether an amount of time since a user has eaten a meal is below a threshold and/or the time until a user is expected to next eat.

The Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level of the user.

The information recorded for the user, e.g. the age and the user's health status.

The settings of the user.

The output may, for example, comprise: - Outputting a notification to the user, e.g. to tell the user that their blood glucose levels are too low or too high.

- Outputting a notification to a health professional and/or an emergency service (e.g. if a user's blood glucose levels are dangerously low or high).

Requesting and/or booking an appointment using the consultation platform.

-13 -Typically, one or more of the following is implemented: - The first threshold T1 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas level of greater than 20 millimoles/litre.

The second threshold T2 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas level of less than or equal to 2.5 millimoles/litre.

The third threshold T3 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas level of less than or equal to 4 millimoles/litre.

- The fourth threshold 14 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas level of greater than 7 millimoles/litre.

The fifth threshold Ts is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas level of greater than 8.5 millimoles/litre.

-The sixth threshold -18 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas level of greater than 20 millimoles/litre.

The seventh threshold T7 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas level of less than or equal to 4 millimoles/litre.

The eighth threshold T8 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas level of greater than 7 millimoles/litre.

-The ninth threshold Tg is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas level of greater than 8.5 millimoles/litre.

-The first range Si is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas range of between 4 and 7 millimoles/litre.

- The second range 52 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas range of between 4 and 8.5 millimoles/litre.

- The third range 53 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas range of between 4 and 7 millimoles/litre.

- The fourth range 54 is associated with a Glinides and/or Sulfonylureas range of between 4 and 8.5 millimoles/litre.

The first and eighth notifications comprise an indication that a user has, or might have, high blood sugar. These notifications are typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the first and/or eighth notifications are also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as an emergency contact of the user. This enables this third party to check on the user.

-14 - - The second and ninth notifications comprise an indication that a user is, or is likely to be, hypoglycaemic. These notifications are typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the second and/or ninth notifications are also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as an emergency contact of the user. This enables this third party to check on the user.

- The third notification comprises an indication that a user might be hypoglycaemic. This notification is typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the third notification is also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as an emergency contact of the user. This enables this third party to check on the user. Typically, the second notification comprises a notification with a greater level of urgency than the third notification (e.g. the second and third notifications may trigger different sounds and/or be sent to different parties).

- The fourth, sixth, tenth, and twelfth notifications comprise an indication that a user should be monitored. These notifications are typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the fourth, sixth, tenth, and/or twelfth notifications are also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as an emergency contact of the user. This enables this third party to check on the user.

The fifth, seventh, eleventh, and thirteenth notifications comprise an indication that a user is within a safe and/or optimal blood glucose range. These notifications are typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the fifth, seventh, eleventh, and/or thirteenth notifications are also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as a health professional. This enables this user and the third party to identify that the user is maintaining an optimal blood glucose range.

Referring to Figures 5a -5c, there is shown a method of determining whether a blood pressure parameter exceeds a threshold. The method is typically carried out by a computer device (e.g. a user device or a server device).

In a first step 401, the computer device receives 1000 a blood pressure measurement from a user. For example, the user may enter a blood pressure level or the computer device may receive the measurement from a sensor of the computer device. Typically, the blood pressure measurement comprises both a systolic and a diastolic pressure measurement.

In a second step 402, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user is diabetic. Typically, this is determined based on the information entered by the user and/or a healthcare professional.

-15 -In a third step 403, if the user is not diabetic, the computer device 1000 determines whether the age of the user is less than an age threshold Ai. This age threshold Ai may, for example, be an age of eighty.

In a fourth step 404, if the user's age is greater than or equal to the age threshold Ai, then the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's blood systolic pressure is in a fifth range R5 and whether the user's diastolic blood pressure is in a sixth range Rg.

In a fifth step 405, if the user's blood systolic pressure is in the fifth range R5 and the user's diastolic blood pressure is in the sixth range Ro, the computer device 1000 outputs a fourteenth notification.

In a sixth step 406, if the user's age is less than the age threshold Ai, then the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's blood systolic pressure is in a seventh range R7 and the user's diastolic blood pressure is in an eighth range Rg.

In a seventh step 407, if the user's blood systolic pressure is in the seventh range R7 and the user's diastolic blood pressure is in the eighth range Rg, the computer device 1000 outputs a fifteenth notification.

In an eighth step 408, if the user's systolic blood pressure is not in the seventh range R7 or if the user's diastolic blood pressure is not in the eighth range R9, then the computer device 1000 outputs a sixteenth notification.

In a diabetic third step 413, if the user is not diabetic, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's systolic blood pressure is beneath a tenth threshold Tio or whether the user's diastolic blood pressure is beneath an eleventh threshold Ti1.

In a diabetic fourth step 414, if the user's systolic blood pressure is beneath the tenth threshold Tio or if the user's diastolic blood pressure is beneath the eleventh threshold Ti I, the computer device 1000 outputs a seventeenth notification.

In a diabetic fifth step 415, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's blood systolic pressure is in a ninth range R9 or whether the user's diastolic blood pressure is in a tenth range Rio.

In a diabetic sixth step 416, if the user's blood systolic pressure is in the ninth range R9 or if the user's diastolic blood pressure is in the tenth range Rio, the computer device 1000 outputs an eighteenth notification.

In a diabetic seventh step 417, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's blood systolic pressure is in an eleventh range Rii or the user's diastolic blood pressure is in a twelfth range S12.

-16 -In a diabetic eighth step 418, if the user's blood systolic pressure is in the eleventh range R11 or the user's diastolic blood pressure is in the twelfth range Ri2, the computer device 1000 outputs a nineteenth notification.

In a diabetic ninth step 419, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's blood systolic pressure is in a thirteenth range R13 or the user's diastolic blood pressure is in a fourteenth range R14.

In a diabetic tenth step 420, if the user's blood systolic pressure is in the thirteenth range Ris or the user's diastolic blood pressure is in the fourteenth range Ri4, the computer device 1000 outputs a twentieth notification.

In a diabetic eleventh step 421, the computer device 1000 determines whether the user's systolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to an eleventh threshold Iii or whether the user's diastolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to a twelfth threshold 112.

In a diabetic twelfth step 422, if the user's systolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to the eleventh threshold Ti1 or if the user's diastolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to the twelfth threshold T12, the computer device 1000 outputs a twenty-first notification.

Typically, one or more of the following is implemented: - The tenth threshold T10 is associated with a systolic blood pressure of less than 90.

The eleventh threshold T11 is associated with a diastolic blood pressure of less than 60.

The twelfth threshold Ti2 is associated with a systolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 180.

The thirteenth threshold Ti3 is associated with a diastolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 120.

The fifth range R5 is associated with a systolic blood pressure of between 90 and 135. The sixth range Re is associated with a diastolic blood pressure of between 60 and 85.

The seventh range R7 is associated with a systolic blood pressure of between 90 and 145.

- The eighth range Re is associated with a diastolic blood pressure of between 60 and 85.

- The ninth range Re is associated with a systolic blood pressure of between 90 and 135.

- The tenth range Rio is associated with a diastolic blood pressure of between 60 and 85.

The eleventh range Ru is associated with a systolic blood pressure of between 135 and 150.

- The twelfth range R12 is associated with a diastolic blood pressure of between 85 and 95.

-17 - - The thirteenth range R13 is associated with a systolic blood pressure of between 150 and 180.

-The fourteenth range Ri4 is associated with a diastolic blood pressure of between 95 and 120.

-The fourteenth and fifteenth notifications comprise an indication that a user has an acceptable and/or optimal blood pressure. These notifications are typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the fourteenth and/or fifteenth notifications are also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as a health professional. This enables this user and the third party to identify that the user is maintaining an optimal blood pressure range.

-The sixteenth notification comprises an indication that a user has an unacceptable and/or sub-optimal blood pressure. This notification is typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the sixteenth notification is also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as a health professional or an emergency contact of the user.

The seventeenth notification comprises an indication that a user has a low blood pressure.

This notification is typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the seventeenth notification is also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as a health professional or an emergency contact of the user.

- The eighteenth notification comprises an indication that a user has an acceptable and/or optimal blood pressure. This notification is typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the eighteenth notification is also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as a health professional. This enables this user and the third party to identify that the user is maintaining an optimal blood pressure range.

The nineteenth notification comprises an indication that a user has a stage one hypertension. This notification is typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the nineteenth notification is also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as a health professional or an emergency contact of the user.

- The twentieth notification comprises an indication that a user has a stage two hypertension. This notification is typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the twentieth notification is also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as a health professional or an emergency contact of the user. Typically, the twentieth notification comprises a notification with a greater level of urgency than the nineteenth notification (e.g. the nineteenth and twentieth notifications may trigger different sounds and/or be sent to different parties).

-18 -The twenty-first notification comprises an indication that a user has dangerously high blood pressure. This notification is typically output to the user. In some embodiments, the twenty-first notification is also and/or alternatively output to a third party, such as a health professional or an emergency contact of the user. Typically, the twenty-first notification comprises a notification with a greater level of urgency than the twentieth notification (e.g. the twentieth notification may be sent to an emergency contact of the user, whereas the twenty-first notification may be sent to the emergency services).

Typically, each notification comprises a suggestion of steps that the user may perform and/or information relevant to a user's situation. As an example, the twenty-first notification may comprise a list of symptoms that indicate dangerously high blood pressure and the second notification may comprise a list of symptoms of hypoglycaemia.

In some embodiments, outputting one or more of the notifications comprises booking an appointment with a healthcare professional using the computer device 1000. In particular, the computer device may transmit a notification to a further computer device, which notification relates to a request to book an appointment with a healthcare professional. This request may include information about the blood pressure and/or the blood glucose level of the user and thus may indicate the reason for the request being made. In some embodiments, the request comprises an indication of urgency, where, for example, a stage two hypertension may be more urgent than a stage one hypertension.

This enables a healthcare professional for the user to immediately identify a potential health risk. Automating this request prevents the user from overlooking and/or ignoring a symptom of a health risk.

Alternatives and modifications It will be understood that the present invention has been described above purely by way of example, and modifications of detail can be made within the scope of the invention.

For example, it will be appreciated that determining whether a parameter is in a range may equally comprise comparing a parameter to a threshold and vice versa. In particular, the comparison of a parameter to each of an upper threshold and a lower threshold is equivalent to the determination of whether a parameter is in a range. Wherever consideration of a range has been disclosed in reference to Figures 4 and 5, equally the method may comprise comparison of the parameter to a threshold and vice versa.

Reference numerals appearing in the claims are by way of illustration only and shall have no limiting effect on the scope of the claims.

Claims

-19 -Claims 1. An apparatus for outputting a notification based on a user health parameter, the apparatus comprising: means for receiving a parameter measurement related to a user; means for determining a health status of the user; means for performing a first comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is greater than a first threshold; and means for performing a second comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is less than a second threshold; and means for outputting a notification in dependence on the first comparison and the second comparison; wherein the value of the first threshold and/or the second threshold is dependent on the health status of the user.
2 The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the means for determining a health status comprises means for identifying information recorded on a consultation platform, preferably a remote consultation platform.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the information may be altered by one or more of: the user; and a healthcare professional.
4. The apparatus of claim 2 or 3, wherein the means for outputting a notification comprises means for altering information on the consultation platform.
5 The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the means for outputting a notification comprises one or more of: means for outputting a request for an appointment with a healthcare professional; means for outputting the parameter measurement; means for outputting an indication of a potential health risk of a user; means for outputting an indication of an urgency; and means for contacting an emergency service.
6. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the means for outputting a notification comprises means for contacting an emergency service when the parameter measurement is greater than the first threshold.
7. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the means for outputting a notification -20 -comprises means for contacting an emergency service when the parameter measurement is less than the second threshold.
8 The apparatus of any preceding claim, comprising means for performing a third comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is less than a third threshold, preferably wherein the means for outputting a notification comprises means for contacting a third party and/or an emergency contact if the parameter measurement is greater than the second threshold and is less than the third threshold.
9 The apparatus of any preceding claim, comprising means for performing a fourth comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is an optimal range, preferably wherein the means for outputting a notification comprises means for outputting an output only to the user if the parameter measurement is in the optimal range.
10. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the notification is dependent on the first comparison and the second comparison.
11. The apparatus of any preceding claim, comprising means for determining the time since a user has eaten; and means for performing a further comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is less than or equal to a further threshold; wherein the further threshold is dependent on the health status of the user and on the time since the user has eaten.
12 The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the means for outputting a notification comprises means for outputting a notification to a third party.
13. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first threshold is associated with a maximum acceptable value and/or wherein the second threshold is associated with a minimum acceptable value.
14 The apparatus of any preceding claim, comprising one or more of: means for outputting a notification to a third party if the parameter exceeds the first threshold and/or is less than the second threshold; and means for outputting a notification only to the user if the parameter is less than the first threshold and is greater than the second threshold.
15. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the parameter is a blood glucose level.
-21 - 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the means for determining the health status of the user comprises means for determining if the user is taking insulin.
17. The apparatus of claim 15 or 16, wherein each threshold is associated with a Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level of the user, preferably wherein the first threshold is associated with the user having a Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level of greater than 20 millimoles/litre.
18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein: if the user is not taking insulin, the second threshold is associated with the user having a Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level of less than or equal to 2.5 millimoles/litre; and if the user is taking insulin, the second threshold is associated with the user having a Glinide and/or Sulfonylureas level of less than or equal to 4 millimoles/litre.
19. The apparatus of any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the parameter is a blood pressure.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the means for determining the health status comprises means for determining whether the user is a diabetic. 20
21 The apparatus of claim 19 or 20, wherein each threshold is associated with a diastolic blood pressure and/or a systolic blood pressure level of the user, preferably wherein the second threshold is associated with the user having a diastolic blood pressure of less than 60 and/or wherein the second threshold is associated with the user having a systolic blood pressure of less than 90.
22 The apparatus of claim 21, wherein, if the user is a diabetic: the first threshold is associated with the user having a diastolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 85 and/or the first threshold is associated with the user having a systolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 135; and/or if the user is a diabetic with an age of greater than 80: the first threshold is associated with the user having a diastolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 85 and/or the first threshold is associated with the user having a systolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 145; and/or -22 -if the user is not a diabetic: the first threshold is associated with the user having a diastolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 120 and/or the first threshold is associated with the user having a systolic blood pressure of greater than or equal to 180.
23. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the health status comprises an age.
24 A method of outputting a notification based on a user health parameter, the method comprising: receiving a parameter measurement; determining a health status of the user; performing a first comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is greater than a first threshold; and performing a second comparison to determine whether the parameter measurement is less than a second threshold; and outputting a notification in dependence on the first comparison and the second comparison; wherein the value of the first threshold and/or the second threshold is dependent on the health status of the user.