Remote patient monitoring (RPM) solutions saw a staggering growth of nearly 1,300% in procedure claims from 2019 until the end of 2022. However, a 2022 poll of 586 healthcare practices revealed that only 25% reported offering a remote patient monitoring program, despite high patient adoption. This article presents 7 strategies to foster participation in remote patient monitoring solutions when it is appropriate for a healthcare organization.
Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions and Patient Engagement
Telehealth and remote patient monitoring solutions offer patients flexibility and the ability to easily manage, track, and report their vital sign measurements. With these solutions, patients can monitor their health from home, reducing the need for frequent doctor visits and hospitalizations.
According to remote patient monitoring statistics, one of the main reasons patients are engaged with these solutions is the immediate benefits they provide. For example, the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Telehealth Satisfaction Study indicated that more consumers prefer telehealth for routine care. Moreover, 94% of individuals who have used telehealth services expressed their willingness to continue using these solutions for medical services in the future.
Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions: 7 Strategies That Encourage Adoption
Physicians may hesitate to adopt remote patient monitoring solutions due to increased workload, data overload, and security concerns. While other physicians may require additional resources they are not aware exist to analyze and interpret the data. Additionally, some physicians may resist change and prefer traditional methods of healthcare delivery.
To encourage physician adoption of RPM, addressing concerns and providing the resources needed to use the technology effectively is vital. The following section offers 7 strategies to encourage physician participation in remote patient monitoring solutions.
1) Educate Physicians About the Benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions
One way to increase the adoption of remote patient monitoring solutions is through education about its benefits. There are various creative methods to inform physicians about these benefits.
- Webinars and online training: Conducting webinars and online training sessions allows physicians to learn about remote patient monitoring solutions at their convenience.
- Case studies: Real-world examples of how remote patient monitoring solutions have improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs can be an effective way to educate physicians. Case studies can be shared through presentations, webinars, or published articles.
- Continuing medical education programs: RPM can be incorporated into CME programs, which can help physicians stay up-to-date with the latest developments in technology.
2) Training on Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions
Physicians may hesitate to adopt remote patient monitoring solutions because they haven’t familiarized themselves. By providing training on technology, physicians can better understand how to use it and how it can benefit their patients.
- In-Person Training: In-person training sessions offer a hands-on approach to learning about RPM technology. Providers can schedule a free demo with a remote patient monitoring vendor, who can show physicians how to use the technology and answer any questions.
- Peer-to-Peer Education: Peer-to-peer education can be a powerful tool for learning about remote patient monitoring solutions. Physicians who have already implemented RPM can share their experiences and knowledge with their peers.
3) Offer Support for Data Analysis
Overburdening existing staff can lead to burnout, and hiring new employees can be expensive. However, third-party RPM service vendors have already trained registered nurses and other clinical staff who are well-versed in RPM procedures. Outsourcing to vendors ensures a smooth transition.
Physicians can focus on treating patients while trained professionals analyze and interpret health data. As a result, healthcare systems can generate an entirely new source of revenue with minimal impact on existing workflow. In addition, physicians will only be contacted when the data generated by RPM devices require their medical expertise.
4) Create Partnerships
Healthcare providers can collaborate with a remote patient monitoring vendor to develop remote patient monitoring solutions more efficiently and effectively. Physicians can research and select a reputable third-party vendor that customizes remote patient monitoring programs. They can also consult colleagues, healthcare organizations, and professional associations.
An article published by New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital revealed that, despite limited resources, the combined use of telehealth and remote patient monitoring solutions with a third-party vendor results in safe discharges and high patient satisfaction in a short period.
Outsourcing remote patient monitoring services to a third-party remote health monitoring vendor can provide several benefits for healthcare providers:
- It alleviates the burden of managing programs, allowing providers to focus on patient care.
- With expertise in the technology, a vendor guides selection and implementation of appropriate devices and software.
- Outsourcing can reduce costs associated with purchasing equipment, maintenance, hiring and training staff.
- Vendors offer real-time monitoring and data analysis to identify issues and improve outcomes.
- Working with a vendor provides scalability to expand programs without major investment in additional resources.
5) Leverage Technology for Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions
Concerns over adding and learning new technology may be a concern for healthcare providers. Healthcare providers can leverage RPM device providers to make remote patient monitoring solutions less daunting, more accessible and user-friendly, including text messaging, and other engagement channels. The following sections offer suggestions for a smooth transition into using RPM technology for healthcare teams and patients.
Partner with a Third-Party Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions Vendor
Healthcare providers can partner with a remote patient monitoring vendor specializing in RPM to gain access to the latest devices, software, and services. This can help providers offer patients the best possible care while controlling costs.
Employ Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions with User-Friendly Devices
RPM devices should be easy for patients to use, with clear instructions and minimal steps required for operation. In addition, the devices should be portable and convenient to carry. With Tenovi, patients receive pre-paired RPM Bluetooth devices that automatically connect to the Tenovi cellular Gateway. The Gateway serves as a central hub for the RPM devices.
Every morning, the Gateway turns red, reminding patients that it’s time to take their measurements. Once the measurements are transmitted to their healthcare provider, the Gateway turns green. This visual cue is particularly helpful for patients who may find technology challenging.
Provide Technical Support
Remote patient monitoring device vendors like Tenovi offer technical support to patients and healthcare teams. Tenovi’s in-house technical support team responds through our HIPAA compliant technical support ticket system within one to two hours. Our technical support team supports both healthcare teams and patients. Patients and staff can contact technical support representatives and have access to online tutorials.
Employ Data Analytics in Your Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions
Healthcare providers can use data analytics to track patient progress and identify trends that may require intervention. This can help providers to manage patient health and prevent complications proactively.
Integrate RPM Data with EHRs
Providers can access a comprehensive view of patient health by integrating RPM data with electronic health records (EHRs). This can help them to make better-informed decisions and provide more personalized care.
6) Involve Patients in Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions
Involving patients in the RPM process is crucial for it’s success. Actively engaging patients and incorporating their feedback can increase patient satisfaction and adherence to remote patient monitoring programs. This, in turn, can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, encourage consistent taking of daily measurements, and promote positive lifestyle changes.
7) Make Remote Patient Monitoring Part of the Healthcare System
With the shift towards value-based care, healthcare providers benefit from remote patient monitoring solutions with improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. For instance, RPM enhances patient outcomes by enabling early detection of health concerns and fostering timely interventions. Furthermore, RPM is particularly effective in chronic care management of diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and COPD.
In addition, the recent ACCC’s Digital Innovations in Cancer Care survey highlights the growth of digital health and telemedicine in cancer care. The survey addresses improving patient outcomes and enabling more informed healthcare provider choices. With technology continually shaping the healthcare domain, the incorporation of RPM holds the promise of fundamentally reshaping cancer care practices for the benefit of patients and providers alike.
By monitoring patients’ vital signs and symptoms remotely, physicians can detect changes in their condition early on and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Thus, potentially avoiding hospitalization and other costly interventions. RPM reduces healthcare costs by reducing hospitalizations and emergency room visits. It also improves efficiencies in healthcare delivery with fewer in-person visits and freeing up resources for other patients. Wider adoption and optimization of RPM face obstacles when it comes to private insurance but could steadily increase as payers recognize the technology’s value in improving outcomes and lowering costs.
Encouraging the Adoption of Remote Patient Monitoring Solutions
RPM program statistics and research show that remote patient monitoring solutions have the potential to improve healthcare delivery. Informing physicians of the benefits of RPM, with proper training, support and integration into the healthcare system, can encourage more participation from physicians and improve patient outcomes. Physicians no longer have to increase clinic workload or hire more staff. Instead, they can outsource to companies with qualified clinical staff who know how to perform RPM services.
Visit Tenovi to find out who we serve and request a free demo. Meet a better RPM experience for patients, physicians, and your team.
