I-CARE.ME: Innovation in Smart Home Healthcare

September 2024 marked the official conclusion of the I-CARE.ME project (Innovative CARe with home intElligent environMEnts), a research and experimental development initiative in the healthcare sector.

Launched in May 2021 and co-funded by Italy’s Ministry of University and Research under the Innovation Agreements (PNR 2015–2020), I-CARE.ME set out with the ambitious goal of significantly improving the quality of life for patients living with chronic illnesses and cancer, as well as their caregivers.

This vision was brought to life through a comprehensive care approach that transcends traditional, service-based models by promoting effective coordination among medical professionals — fully aligned with the Ministry of Health’s guidelines.

Unlike similar initiatives that focus on specific aspects such as vital sign monitoring or medication intake, I-CARE.ME introduces a holistic, patient-centered model. Advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), powered by biometric and smart sensors, are the backbone of this new care paradigm.

THE PROJECT

At the core of I-CARE.ME lies an open, modular, and scalable technological platform capable of collecting data and delivering advanced analytics with a focus on:

• Monitoring vital signs, mobility, and daily/physical activities (e.g., drinking, resting, motor or rehab exercises) using smart biosensors.
• Ensuring continuity of care through telemedicine and remote monitoring solutions that improve communication between patients and healthcare providers.
• Daily life support with user-friendly interfaces (Smart TVs, voice assistants, home robots) that can recognize gestures and requests, reducing isolation.

PROJECT PARTNERS

The initiative brought together a wide range of partners: IT companies, the University of Salerno and prominent healthcare institutions including the Fondazione Pascale and the Pineta Grande Hospital.

EVERSANA INTOUCH HEALTHWARE’S ROLE

EVERSANA INTOUCH Healthware contributed to multiple Work Packages (Obiettivi Realizzativi) within the project, involving different internal teams. Specifically:

• Work Package 3 (OR3) – Study and definition of the platform architecture. Within this context, EVERSANA INTOUCH Healthware collaborated with project partners to analyze the functional and technical requirements aimed at designing a modular, scalable and interoperable architecture.
• Work Package 4 (OR4) – Prototype implementation and platform testing. Within this context, EVERSANA INTOUCH Healthware worked alongside partners to develop operational prototypes and carry out verification and validation activities in line with the defined use scenarios.
• Work Package 6 (OR6) – Technical and Scientific Management and Dissemination of Results. Within this context EVERSANA INTOUCH Healthware focused on the project’s technical communication strategy. This included developing the project’s branding, visual guidelines and website, as well as outlining a comprehensive communication plan. By leveraging its network – including pharmaceutical companies and global players in digital health – EVERSANA INTOUCH Healthware helped increase the project’s visibility and foster participation in major events on digital health, eldercare, and rehabilitation.

PROJECT OVERVIEW

• Partners: HEALTHWARE GROUP S.R.L., Mare Group S.p.A., CHALLENGE NETWORK SRL, EMAC S.R.L., HOME MEDICINE ITALIA SRL, National Cancer Institute “Fondazione Pascale”, Pineta Grande S.p.A., University of Salerno
• Funding entity: Ministry of University and Research
• Website: https://www.ponricerca.gov.it/
• Period: 2020–2024
• Area of specialization: Technologies for living environments
• Project Value: € 2,437,054.00