Top 5 Buzzwords in Medical Weighing Scales

What are the top 5 buzzwords in medical weighing scales and what do they mean?

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a ratio between a person’s weight and height and interpreted as a BMI score. This BMI score is then used as a tool to screen for obesity or excessive body fat. While it does not actually measure body fat directly, according to The Center for Disease Control (CDC), the BMI scores generally correlate with a person’s body fat percentage. There is a mathematical formula used to calculate Body Mass Index using an individual’s height and weight. To calculate BMI, divide weight in pounds (lbs) by height in inches (in) squared and multiply by a conversion factor of 703.
Example: Weight = 150 lbs, Height = 5'5" (65")
Calculation: [150 ÷ (65)2] x 703 = 24.96

 BMI can also be automatically calculated using a scale with BMI capabilities.

Physician Scale

Physician scales or doctor’s office scales can include balance beam scales, digital scales and baby scales. They are used daily in primary care facilities to measure a patient’s weight. Some physician scales can also measure height and BMI. New U.S. healthcare reform requirements declare that by 2014 all physicians must track a patient’s weight, height and BMI and store that information in an electronic medical record.

Digital Scale

Digital scales offer many more features and benefits than a standard mechanical scale. Powered by batteries or AC adapter, a digital scale computes weight using load cells and then displays the measurements on a display screen. Digital scales provide features such as hold/release, LB/KG Conversion, LB/KG Lockout, Motion Sensing Technology, EMR Connectivity and Tare. Digital scales using advanced technology can also measure a patient’s BMI or height using a digital integral height rod.

Load Cells

Load cells are sensors located in a scale’s weighing platform that convert the weight load into an electronic signal for the scale’s computer. There are various types of load cells that provide specific benefits. Some advanced load cell technology used in medical scales permit on site scale diagnostics and quick and easy component replacement.

Networked Scale (EMR Capable Scales, EMR Ready Scales, EMR Connected Scales)

Digital scales that are designated as "Networked", "EMR Capable", "EMR Ready", or "EMR Connected" provide either serial port or USB connectivity that enable the user to 1) electronically store information from the scale, 2) communicate with a peripheral device such as a computer or printer, and/or 3) interface with spot monitors. There are many benefits of using EMR connected scales.