What is Remote Patient Monitoring?

Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) is a fast-evolving industry transforming how patients receive medical care. RPM is healthcare delivery through electronic communication. Originally known as telemedicine or telehealth, the remote care concept has been around for some time, viably demonstrated as early as the 1950s. NASA put it into practice in the 1970s, providing care for astronauts on space missions and it skyrocketed during the COVID-19 Pandemic. ^[1] 

With today’s technological innovations such as electronic health records and expanded access to the internet and medical devices, healthcare can move out of the traditional clinical space and into patient homes. RPM has the potential to revolutionize healthcare with its numerous benefits. Understanding its capabilities can help providers and patients determine if it’s right for them and how to incorporate it into their healthcare process.

An Introduction to RPM

The RPM healthcare delivery method uses digital technology to securely collect and transmit medical and other health information between patient and provider for assessment and recommendations. Data might include vital signs, weight, blood pressure, blood sugar, blood oxygen levels, heart rate, electrocardiograms, and more. RPM enhances the quality of care and patient outcomes by promoting continuous monitoring outside of a clinical setting. This approach can be life-changing for patients managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illness where regular monitoring is critical to effective care.

How does remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) work?

RPM affords many other services, including chronic, principal, and transitional care management, remote therapeutic monitoring, annual wellness visits, behavioral health integrations, and social determinants of health (SDOH) assessments. For these services to be possible, RPM relies on a few key components:

• Synergistic healthcare teams—RPM organizations partner with participating providers to streamline practice operations and enhance patient engagement.
• Devices and sensors—RPM companies supply patients with the necessary devices for care including blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, and other user-friendly wearable sensors that collect health data and allow patients to monitor their health at home.
• Data transmission—Wireless technology facilitates the secure transmission of real-time health data and information from patients to RPM and provider teams. The information is also recorded against the patient record.
• Data analysis and interpretation—RPM clinicians  review the incoming information to assess the patient’s condition. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technology can help identify patterns or anomalies in the data, and in some cases, aid in the early detection of health issues. Clinical teams escalate abnormal readings to the appropriate provider.
• Communication and intervention—Providers make informed decisions based on data and support and guide patients through virtual consultations. They make adjustments, schedule follow-ups, and intervene as necessary.

The benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)

RPM can make a difference in patient lives and increase the efficiency of healthcare practices. Here are some other benefits:

• Improved access to care—In rural or underserved areas with limited access to care, RPM can provide continuous care and reduce in-person visits, thereby relieving stress and improving quality of life.
• Enhanced patient engagement—Patients naturally become more involved in their care with RPM because they continuously monitor their health. This increased engagement can result in better health outcomes through closer adherence to treatment plans.
• Early detection of health issues—RPM can help detect health conditions early, allowing prompt attention and treatment. By sensing blood pressure spikes, irregular heart rhythms, changes in blood sugar levels, and more, RPM can prevent the progression or worsening of symptoms and conditions and reduce the risk of complications.
• Cost-effective care—By minimizing hospitalizations, office, and emergency room visits, effectively managing chronic conditions, and preventing the escalation of health issues, RPM also decreases overall health costs.
• Personalized care—Real-time data enables customized care plans, allowing providers to track health trends and address individual patient needs.
• Convenience and comfort— RPM is a game-changer for individuals who live far from healthcare facilities and those with mobility issues. Empowering patients to self-monitor with remote assistance allows individuals to stay home more, providing comfort.  

With advances in wearable technology, AI, and data analytics, RPM is expected to play an increasing role in patient care. Additionally, RPM is a cost-effective, patient-centered approach, and the continued shift in healthcare toward patient outcomes will drive it. RPM improves outcomes by improving access, real-time monitoring, decreasing costs, and early detection.

While not without the occasional challenge, the benefits of RPM far outweigh the risks. Choosing the right RPM provider with rigorous compliance and secure checks and balances is essential. Nsight strictly adheres to Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) policies and the best data security protocols when handling patient information.

Whether you are a patient or provider looking to learn more about RPM, we would love to hear from you. Click HERE to schedule a demo today.  

Source

[1] https://spinoff.nasa.gov/spinoff1996/27.html