MedApps has inked a deal with Microsoft to connect its wireless remote monitoring HealthPAL device with Microsoft's HealthVault personal health record. The deal reinforces HealthVault as a platform for connected device makers and remote monitoring applications to connect to and deposit patients' health information. MedApps will officially connect to HealthVault tomorrow.

MedApps describes HealthPAL as a solution "that eliminates the need for expensive specialized equipment, smart phones, hard-wired monitoring systems or even computer access in order for individuals to upload medical device readings to their Microsoft HealthVault account."

The HealthPAL device is "about the size of a cell-phone" and "its low cost enables remote monitoring to be available to large patient populations." MedApps explains that while it has some buttons for special features and set-up, the reading and data transmissions are automated: "The patient does not push any buttons, navigate any screen commands or touch the HealthPAL in any fashion."

According to the company site, HealthPAL is approved for use with glucose meters, but the company is working toward approval for the recording and transmitting of data from weight scales, blood pressure monitors, INR monitors, ECG, Pulse Ox, CPAP, spirometers and O2 concentrators.

"Microsoft views wireless monitoring as an important tool for individuals managing their health," Bert Van Hoof, director of partner development, Microsoft's Health Solutions Group, said in a press release. "We see MedApps HealthPAL as a valuable and synergistic extension to the vibrant HealthVault ecosystem of over 50 health and fitness devices already connected through Windows and HealthVault Connection Center."

Last March, MedApps founder Kent Dicks explained HealthPal as a device that allows off-the-shelf medical devices like Bluetooth-enabled blood glucose monitors to transmit wirelessly to cellphones or another wireless device, which then transmits the data to a Google Health, Microsoft HealthVault, or enterprises like large insurance companies. It seems like the mobile phone component is no longer a part of the company's plans. (Watch the video pitch from last March by Dicks below.)

Nearly 90 percent of the U.S. population already has a mobile phone in their pocket -- will they really want to add another device to their daily routine? If the value-add is a connected device that truly is automated, they just might.

For more, read MedApps press release here or watch a video (below) that MedApps made last year to explain their company's vision at the time.