A company called Butterfly Network has launched a new wand that allows doctors to perform real-time ultrasound examinations of patients' lungs by connecting it to an iOS or Android phone. "Lung ultrasound has been shown to be effective in detecting lung involvement and avoiding cross-contamination in patients with suspected COVID-19," the company's website notes.

Users connect what looks like an ultrasound scanner to their phone, and then receive on-screen prompts and professional help to guide them through the process. If the scanner is being used incorrectly, the doctor at the other end will know and advise the user to adjust accordingly. The doctor performing the test can control the instrument remotely and even zoom in on suspected areas to get a better view, in addition to recording images for further analysis.

In addition to the convenience of using ultrasound scanners, prices vary widely: an ultrasound machine can cost a hospital as much as $75,000, while Butterfly iQ's scanner costs $2,000. According to the company, an iQ can be purchased by "a reputable physician or other practitioner who is licensed under the laws of the state in which the device is practiced or ordered. Or purchase the product for use in professional practice under a valid prescription or order issued by a physician or practitioner authorized by law."

Butterfly also offers free training sessions on how to use the scanner, how to perform lung ultrasound, how to interpret findings and determine their relevance to COVID-19. Those who complete the course will receive a certificate of completion. It is also important to note that the device can be prescribed by a medical professional, but the relevant tests must be diagnosed by a medical professional.