Envisioning a path from the Internet of Medical Things to improved fertility care access: a mini-review

Devices that function within a network of interconnected systems and are equipped with sensors, software, and tools designed to collect and exchange data are widely known as the Internet of Things (IoT). In recent years, the rapid growth of IoT technology has sparked significant interest in leveraging these systems to enhance healthcare delivery across various medical fields, including fertility care and assisted reproductive technology. The subset of IoT devices applied within the healthcare sector is referred to as the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). Despite this growing technological potential, there has been little exploration into using IoMT to address a critical challenge in fertility care: the ongoing lack of access for many individuals in need of these services. In this article, we examine various applications of IoMT in healthcare, as well as how these may be extrapolated to the fertility field, and more importantly, assess how they may aid in bridging the access gap. We also explore potential challenges and pitfalls associated with implementing the IoMT, which underscores the need for careful oversight in its adoption and utilization.