What You Should Know:
– Sutter Health has partnered with Epic to launch a new initiative called Sutter Sync, which deploys first-of-their-kind medical devices that connect directly to Epic’s EHR.
– The initiative is designed to help patients proactively manage chronic health conditions from the comfort of their own homes. The program aims to make access easier by treating patients’ homes as care settings, helping people stay healthier and avoid unnecessary hospital visits.
Seamless Data Flow for Chronic Care
Sutter Sync uses proprietary devices, including a blood pressure cuff, scale, and glucometer, that automatically transmit data to the Epic MyChart app on a patient’s phone or tablet, and then to their health record in Epic. This eliminates the need for a device-specific app and ensures that data flows in real time, even when the MyChart app is closed or the patient’s phone is in another room.
This seamless flow of information allows care teams to see patient measurements taken at home and understand how a patient’s condition changes between office visits. The additional data helps providers make better-informed treatment decisions and suggest timely medication adjustments remotely, which is especially impactful for patients with chronic conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and those who are pregnant.
Program Launch and Future Expansion
The Sutter Sync digital care program officially launched in spring 2025 with a focus on high blood pressure and has received positive feedback from both patients and clinicians. The high blood pressure program currently supports more than 3,000 people.
Starting in October, the program will expand to include eligible Medicare-enrolled patients for Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol. A pilot program for pregnant patients will also launch in October with a small cohort of patients and referring providers. By addressing multiple chronic conditions in one integrated model, Sutter Sync aims to reduce the burden on patients while having a tremendous impact on overall health.
“Our vision is to be the most comprehensive, integrated and connected health system for getting and staying well. Digital innovation is an important part of how we deliver on that,” said Sutter Health President and CEO Warner Thomas. “Access becomes easier when patients’ homes are care settings as much as our clinics and hospitals. This connected approach can help people better manage chronic diseases, stay healthier and avoid unnecessary trips to the hospital — all while improving their overall experience.”
