So, first and foremost, I understand all smart watches/wearables are mostly fun gizmos and not full-on health devices. But, some health stuff has popped up for a family member and while we’re pursuing it with doctors to address it like adults, we wanted to add a layer of casual monitoring for blood oxygen and heart health. In fact, the doctor actually recommended an Apple Watch to my family member.
Now… here’s the pickle: It’s my understanding no new Apple Watches have blood oxygen monitoring. Is it possible to just pick up a Series 8 and have that functionality? Are other wearables like Garmins and Fitbits (ew) worth pursuing?
The boring solution is I just give this family member my Series 7 which has blood oxygen monitoring that seems to work quite well and I get myself a new Apple Watch
There are several watches that feature blood oxygen monitoring, but at the start of the Covid crisis I purchased a finger tip Pulse Oximeter from Masimo, the MightySat. And it looks like they have a new model that will be available soon.
I have a Series 9 with blood oxygen monitoring. I was able to buy it after Apple stopped selling them, because that didn’t affect existing stock held by other sellers. You may still be able to find one from a cellular carrier or other reseller.
Iirc, the ban on blood oxygen monitoring only affects Apple Watches sold in the US. I don’t know whether you can use an Apple Watch in the US that was sold in Canada or Mexico (especially if you want a cellular model), but if you live within driving distance of the border, it may be worth checking to see whether that’s an option.
You have no choice, it’s a matter of concern regarding someone else’s health. Who could argue with that?