Choosing a Chronic Care Management Program: A Patient’s Guide to Remote Patient Monitoring

Advancements in healthcare technology have enabled providers to meet rising patient demand while maintaining care quality. More patients are experiencing the benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) for their chronic care conditions. RPM engages patients in their treatment program, allowing their healthcare team to monitor their vital signs from anywhere. RPM is especially effective for chronic care management (CCM), which applies to patients living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). However, many CCM programs use RPM, and their services vary. A patient searching for a CCM plan should understand the factors that feed this important decision. This guide gives pointers on choosing an RPM provider for your CCM needs.

Assess Health Needs and Goals

First and foremost, patients should assess their health and medical requirements for their condition(s). Are there multiple conditions, like hypertension and heart disease? If so, an RPM provider should be able to manage both conditions. Patients should select RPM providers specializing in their area of need that can track the required metrics for managing their care, such as glucose or blood oxygen levels. These questions can provide insight:

• Does this program monitor the vital signs and symptoms of my condition?
• How much support do I need vs. how much does it provide?
• Does it issue alerts when readings are outside the normal boundaries or exceed safe limits?
• Does the monitoring plan integrate lifestyle aspects, such as exercise and diet?

Understand RPM Technology

Digital technology makes RPM possible. RPM records and transmits health data to a patient’s healthcare team. Not all RPM companies offer the same services, and there are also variations in the kind of software and devices they use, such as mobile apps, wearable devices, and home-use equipment. RPM is useless if a patient doesn’t understand how to use the technology and the devices. Patients should choose a program that is easy to use, accessible, and practical for their daily lives. Here are some important considerations concerning RPM technology:

• Device compatibility: Patients should check that RPM medical devices properly synch with their home devices like tablets and smartphones. Additionally, patients with visual or hearing impairments should check that their home and RPM medical devices meet their accessibility needs.
• Ease of use: Medication and treatment adherence strongly correlate with the ability to integrate equipment into a patient’s daily routine. Devices that are easy to use and send data with minimal effort are the most effective for CCM patients who need them regularly.
• Data Transmission: Patients should ask questions about how data is transmitted and shared. Data should be securely transmitted, stored, and shared in real-time.

Evaluate the Level of Support

CCM patients need elevated support and communication from their care team. Some CCM programs dedicate a case manager or nurse to frequently check in with patients about their health status, how they are feeling, and whether they have any concerns. Other programs may have more automation, less human interaction, and more app involvement. Patients should decide how much contact they need to feel comfortable managing their health. Support features to look for include the following:

• Dedicated care managers: Not every RPM provider can offer personalized interactions with a case manager for CCM. If this is important to you as a patient, ask about it when exploring CCM programs through RPM.
• Regular check-ins: A supportive CCM program should provide check-ins and opportunities for open communication and feedback. These can include virtual visits, phone calls, and texts.
• Round-the-clock availability: Patients managing an advanced-stage chronic illness can experience rapid changes in their condition. For example, a case of the flu or a simple cold can significantly impact the health of a person with COPD. Additionally, COPD patients can be more susceptible to pneumonia. Access to a care team 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is essential for these patients.

Coverage and Cost

More insurance providers, including Medicare, cover CCM programs with RPM, but coverage can vary. Because of this, there can be out-of-pocket costs for equipment, software, or coaching sessions. Patients should find out the particulars surrounding their insurance coverage for CCM with RPM.

Ask about:

• Medicare/Insurance coverage: How much of the RPM program does your insurance cover? Does it qualify for Medicare’s RPM reimbursement?
• Out-of-pocket costs: Are there fees for which you, as the patient, will hold financial responsibility?
• Financial assistance: Always ask about financial aid or payment plans for RPM programs. Some providers offer it.

Data Security and Privacy:

Any RPM program worth its salt has strong security and privacy protection for sensitive health data. Because RPM systems constantly collect real-time personal health information, reinforced security measures are required for compliance.

Look for programs with:

• Compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): HIPAA regulations protect patient privacy and guard against health care fraud and abuse. Ensure the program you are considering complies with HIPAA regulations.
• Secure data transmission: RPM providers that handle sensitive health information should include reinforced security in their technology infrastructure, such as encryption for data transmission.
• A clear privacy policy: An RPM provider should have a transparent privacy policy that outlines the circumstances under which your data can be accessed and who can access it.

Long-Term Commitment to Your Health

Chronic conditions change over time, and the journey is long. Patients should choose a flexible CCM program that grows and adapts as their needs evolve. Adjustments for changes in medication, treatment, required metrics, additional check-ins, and coaching should all be met with a yes. On-going educational opportunities that help patients understand their condition(s) over time are also a plus. Surveys and review sessions that consider patient feedback and insights are powerful tools for improving the quality of CCM programming.

RPM empowers chronic care patients to take an active role in their care. RPM providers with CCM programs with easy-to-use technology, elevated support, affordability, security, and adaptability will be more successful in improving chronic care patient outcomes. If you are looking for a CCM program through an RPM provider, thoroughly research and explore your options, ask questions, and consult your doctor. Check websites and healthcare forums for more information. Patient reviews and testimonials can also be key indicators of the performance and success of CCM programs with RPM.

To learn more about RPM devices and CCM through Nsight, click HERE to schedule a demo today. Whether you are a patient or provider looking to learn more about RPM, we would love to hear from you.