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Everyday life can be a constant challenge for millions of people who rely on oxygen therapy. Simple tasks like leaving their home or going to sleep carry hidden risks when oxygen tubing becomes disconnected or tanks run out unnoticed. After hospital stays, many patients return home to environments without proper monitoring, increasing the likelihood of preventable emergencies and readmissions. This is especially critical for those with chronic respiratory conditions like COPD, where even a brief interruption in oxygen supply can result in a severe health crisis, intense respiratory distress, or worse.

"One of the biggest challenges in today's world is that most people don't realize that oxygen users can die from disconnected tubing and depleted oxygen tanks," says Valerie Obenchain, founder of Advanced Interactive Response Systems (AIRS). "We really should be doing better for these oxygen users and giving them real solutions that address this unmet need."

As a respiratory therapist, Obenchain witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of inadequate oxygen monitoring. Her professional experience, combined with personal insights as a caregiver to her grandmother, who lived with COPD and was dependent on oxygen 24/7, motivated her to find solutions. "Watching her struggle with preventable issues inspired me to act," Obenchain recalls. "I was shocked these types of solutions didn't already exist. We are the first to monitor both the oxygen supply and the user to ensure proper oxygen titration."

"What really sets us apart is that we do remote monitoring with respiratory therapists," explains Obenchain. "Our goal is to change the standard of care for oxygen therapy. Once patients are discharged, there is little to no monitoring completed. Our solution ensures these patients remain safe and supported at home."

AIRS aims to address these challenges by integrating advanced technology with expert oversight. AIRS' flagship device provides real-time monitoring of vital metrics, including SpO2 levels and pulse, as well as oxygen flow, tank status, and battery levels. The system includes local alarms with lights and sounds while transmitting data remotely to a team of respiratory therapists. These specialists monitor the data in real time, allowing for precise oxygen titration and immediate responses to abnormalities. Caregivers and family members also receive text alerts, offering peace of mind and reducing the need for frequent physical checks.

A Vision for Global Transformation

AIRS has already gained momentum with issued patents in 20 countries, positioning the company for global expansion. "Our mission is to deliver these devices to oxygen users worldwide," says Obenchain. "We seek strategic partnerships to help bring this vision to life."

Two pilot studies funded by a federal grant support the company's efforts. These studies will demonstrate the device's potential to improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life. "This grant enables us to provide devices for the studies," Obenchain notes. "The results will help validate our technology's critical role for supplemental oxygen users, and we plan to publish these findings."

"Currently, the oxygen supply must be physically monitored by someone. With our device, monitoring is conducted remotely," explains Obenchain. "This not only ensures patient safety but also provides caregivers with the tools they need to support their loved ones effectively."

Raising the Standard for Oxygen Therapy

AIRS' impact extends beyond technology—it's about empowering patients, families, and caregivers. Through remote monitoring with expert oversight, AIRS reduces the need for physical checks, enhances safety, and aims to improve the quality of life for oxygen users.

"Our device allows family to focus on supporting their loved ones rather than constantly checking their oxygen levels," says Obenchain. "We believe telemedicine for oxygen therapy is the future. There are now insurance codes for the remote monitoring by respiratory therapists, opening a new revenue stream for oxygen therapy."

As AIRS prepares for its next growth phase, the company is in due diligence for a new funding round to launch its Oxygen Flow Monitor and expand its reach. With a commitment to innovation and a focus on patient safety, AIRS is working to set a higher standard for oxygen delivery systems. To learn more or to partner with us, visit oxygenalarms.com.