Why is RPM (remote patient monitoring) important?

The world of healthcare has changed irrevocably since the CoVid pandemic hit in 2019. The fledgling telehealth industry has blossomed, becoming a massive giant projected for great leaps and bounds in terms of growth in the years to come. Not only this but the growing role of technology in today’s world has changed the way healthcare is conducted and practices are run. 

From the surgery table to the administrative desk, to stepping out of the physical space of the practice with remote patient monitoring devices, we are in a very different era of healthcare.

Remote patient monitoring, in particular, is a new tool and possibility which has become extremely important in our world as it is today. So much so, that many remote patient monitoring startups are cropping up across the world today to supplement healthcare clinics. 

What is Remote Patient Monitoring?

Remote patient monitoring, also known as RPM, is a method of healthcare delivery that utilizes advancements in technology to gather patient data out of the traditional boundaries of healthcare clinics and settings. It involves remote patient management within the home, where the patient lives and thrives every day, effectively bridging the gap between the home and the sterile environment of the home. 

RPM relies on remote patient monitoring devices, which are far from cold and alienating wire-riddled devices associated with healthcare. These are user-friendly personal technology devices that resemble smartphones and tablets used by the majority of the population across the world. 

Related: Remote Patient Monitoring: What You Need to Know

Platforms like Health Harmony RPM use technology in ways that put patients at ease and make them comfortable with managing their own health, increasing engagement levels, and improving the quality of care provided. 

There aren’t many requirements in remote patient monitoring but to have an effective program in place you need to do several things:

Compare the different RPM systems on the market

Look up remote patient monitoring medicare codes as well as remote patient monitoring cms codes. Figure out how to make this beneficial and profitable for yourself and your patients at the same time. 

Following CMS guidelines for RPM can avoid scrutiny of billing practices and the likelihood of claim denials. Therefore, it is key for you to understand the CMS and medicare guidelines for remote patient monitoring to ensure success.

The Importance of Remote Patient Monitoring

There are several reasons why RPM is of great value for the healthcare industry:

Better Access: There is an increase in the number of people who are insured, shrinking the supply of doctors in face of a larger demand. People find it much more difficult to access healthcare. RPM deals with this problem by increasing the capacity of physicians to treat their patients, expanding access to care all over the United States. 

Improving Quality: The quality of care improves with remote patient monitoring. This is because RPM provides direct and instant access to relevant patient data, tapering and streamlining daily routines efficiently. It also reduces the possibility of physician burnout, largely benefitting patient care. Furthermore, RPM improves patient behavior and engagement by virtue of its organization. It involves patients directly in their health and makes them accountable for it. The technology is familiar and user-friendly, rather than being cold and clinical. The interface of many systems resembles that found on tablets and smartphones, breeding comfort and increasing patient engagement.

Related: What Is Endocrinology Patient Monitoring?

Enhanced Assurance: Patients are provided with comfort and reassurance that they have someone in their corner, 24/7. As part of the program, a practitioner is monitoring the health and well-being of the patient daily. The healthcare team effectively goes home with them and touches base with them regularly. In addition, patients receive constant education, support, and feedback.