British digital health start-up Clin-e-cal has raised over £130,000 on crowdfunding platform Crowdcube to fund the commercialisation and scale-up of its smart inhaler monitoring technology.
Clin-e-cal’s smartphone apps use unique technology which analyses sound signals associated with the inhaler device.
The apps then uses these sound signals to provide real-time visual feedback to users on their inhalation technique, as well as tracking their adherence.
The firm said inhaler technique has long been highlighted as a key way to reduce serious asthma complications and deaths, with the UK suffering some of the worst asthma death rates in Europe.
Clin-e-cal’s Rafi-Tone app, launched in 2016, is designed to address the distress and panic that many children feel when taking their inhaler medication.
The app was originally developed by a University of Manchester academic Professor Tariq Aslam, to help his son Rafi, by using specially designed games and cartoons to encourage and monitor correct inhaler technique.
Rafi Robot, the star of the app, helps to engage the child whilst promoting effective inhaler technique through a series of fun games.
Clin-e-cal has also developed its Clip-Tone app, in partnership with leading medical device manufacturers, to help adults to monitor and improve their inhaler technique.
Clip-Tone consists of a low-cost attachment, which clips to the top of an inhaler and generates a gentle whistling sound when the inhaler is used, and the Clip-Tone Buddy smartphone app.
The attachment works with the companion app to give users real-time visual feedback on their inhalation technique, as well as tracking their adherence and sending medication reminders.