Americans spend more than $2.5 trillion and more than $8,000 per person on healthcare.

Professors and students at MIT's Medical Electronic Device Realization Center want to do just that. A recent study found Americans are throwing away $33 million on unnecessary complete blood cell counts during routine check-ups. The MedRC is working to lower the cost of common blood testing and reduce the wait for results. Using microfluidics, researchers are routing blood-cells through a chip with electricity.

The idea is to create a device that uses a drop of blood instead of a whole vial for various blood tests. It could cut-out costly lab-work and get patients' results in minutes.

Researchers are developing a wearable vitals monitor. It measures heart rate and blood pressure at your head. and could help doctors track conditions like high blood pressure more accurately and continuously to better personalize treatment.

They're also working on a smart ultrasound. No matter how much you push on the prototype, you get these consistent images. With a normal ultrasound, you can see the tissue compressing.

Researchers hope it will lead to more accurate and more frequent imaging of things like tumors. they want images comparable to x-rays, without the higher cost or risk of radiation.

These futuristic devices could keep both you and your wallet healthy.

The MedRC works closely with physicians to understand patient needs.

Co-founder Brian Anthony says the devices they're creating could be in your doctor's office or even in your home within the next few years.