An arrhythmia discrimination device and method involves receiving
electrocardiogram signals and non-electrophysiologic signals at
subcutaneous locations. Both the electrocardiogram signals and
non-electrophysiologic signals are used to discriminate between normal
sinus rhythm and an arrhythmia. An arrhythmia may be detected using
electrocardiogram signals, and verified using the non-electrophysiologic
signals. A detection window may be initiated in response to receiving the
electrocardiogram signal, and used to determine whether the
non-electrophysiologic signal is received at a time falling within the
detection window. Heart rates may be computed based on both the
electrocardiogram signals and non-electrophysiologic signals. The rates
may be used to discriminate between normal sinus rhythm and an
arrhythmia, and used to determine absence of an arrhythmia.