Remote Patient Monitoring Challenges & Solutions

Real-time Data Access in RPM

Real-time access to data is the next important feature of RPM. Healthcare professionals can monitor patient data in real time. It’s helpful in emergencies, as the doctors can quickly assess the situation of patients and take quick action. 

However, there are a few challenges to real-time data access. The biggest one is the need for constant connectivity. The data won’t be transmitted if the sensors aren’t connected over the internet. There is also the issue of a baseline bandwidth necessary for these devices to work.

The data must travel over the network through multiple data centers and the RPM platform network. If any hops are interrupted, it could result in delayed data and possibly loss along the way.

RPM can achieve this connectivity through WBAN. The activities of constantly transmitting data consume energy. The protocols used in WBAN, such as Bluetooth and Zigbee, consume low power. Research is still ongoing to improve these protocols and even develop new ones.

System Integration

The next issue that RPM could face is system integration. This wouldn’t be a big issue if the healthcare providers all used the same systems on a single network. That’s not the case, though. 

Many problems arise in this sector. First are the technical challenges. An example can be taken in the UK, where the healthcare sector still uses outdated software stacks. All the systems must be compatible to ensure that the data transmitted is accurate and secure.

Interoperability is another issue, as health data is usually large and heterogeneous. There are two sides to interoperability in RPM programs: Sensors, and Data. 

Technical integration aside, integration into the social system is another problem. It can be challenging to ensure patients use the monitoring system as intended. The next is reimbursement, and such a new technology might not be included in insurance plans.

Once a remote monitoring platform is introduced, this problem can be nullified. Until then, RPM needs to be managed carefully to avoid any issues. The whole system needs to be changed bit by bit to accommodate this technology, but it could be a game-changer once it is.

The Cost of RPM

Perhaps the biggest problem RPM can face is the cost to roll it out in the healthcare industry.

These include per-unit costs, licensing costs, and software costs. The technical staff that manages and maintains the system is also a huge cost. 

Another budget issue providers must address is the cost of training the staff to use the new technology. Organizations usually overlook this important fact when introducing new software into the mix.

With the advent of RPM, we have the prospect of taking a step ahead in the healthcare industry. If these RPM problems are addressed, we will see a change in the entire outlook of the medical industry.

If you want to obtain the benefits of RPM, don’t miss out on SmartClinix! Take advantage of the low RPM costs and never look back! You can avail of hassle-free services with amazing discounts!