Home fingertip oxygen monitors are less accurate for people with darker skin tones, according to the largest study on this topic

The BMJ Group published a study suggesting that home fingertip oxygen monitors, or pulse oximeters, are less accurate for people with darker skin tones, potentially leading to delays in care and contributing to health disparities. The study, which is the largest on this topic, found that pulse oximeters give higher readings for patients with darker skin tones, meaning low blood oxygen levels may be missed, while patients with lighter skin tones may receive unnecessary treatment. The researchers recommend that SpO2 readings should be interpreted in the context of other clinical information, particularly for patients with darker skin tones.