Preparing patients for remote patient monitoring
It is important that patients understand the expectations of remote patient monitoring (RPM).
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How to communicate with your patient
There are a number of ways to share information related to the use of RPM with your patients:
- A telehealth appointment before they begin using the device
- An email or handout explaining how RPM can be used for their condition or symptoms
- A follow-up telehealth appointment after they’ve been using the device for several days
Share the benefits
Some patients will need in-person testing, diagnostics, or monitoring. This depends on their condition, internet access, or personal preferences and abilities. But there are many ways that RPM can help with chronic conditions, complications, and illness. Share the benefits with your patients to help them understand this option to support health care management.
How to use RPM
Remote monitoring may be new for some patients. The best way to help your patients is to inform them about RPM technology. This includes:
- How the device works
- How it is used by the patient
- The features of different devices
- Considerations when selecting a specific device
- How you will receive and use the data sent from the device.
The patient may also want to understand the costs associated with RPM. Reimbursement differs by insurance status and type.
It is important to help your patients understand how to use RPM. Here are some of the key ways that patients can engage with RPM:
- Set up. Before starting RPM, patients should have a visit with their health care provider. This is important to establish medical necessity. The provider or care team can use this visit to educate the patient on using the RPM equipment.
- Device use. The patient is provided with a tablet, wearable tool, scale, pulse oximeter, or other device. Alternatively, the patient may get guidance on how to select the device. The device will track physiological data.
- Data entry. Depending on the device, patients may need to manually enter information. This includes recording symptoms, diet, and lifestyle changes along with the automatic transmission of physiological data.
- Communication. Patients can communicate virtually with providers about their data and health status.
- Notification. Patients may receive alerts instructing them to contact their provider. This will occur if their data falls outside a certain range for the condition that is being monitored.
- Adjustments. Based on the data collected via RPM, the provider may adjust the patient's medications or treatments.
- Ongoing use. Patients may continue to regularly use their RPM device for several months or longer. This should always be done with the provider's supervision. The provider ensures the device is used to effectively to manage the patient's health
Help your patient understand the device
Some products may not need a lot of explanation. Other devices may be more confusing for patients. Here’s a few questions patients may have:
- How does it work? Walk your patient through operating the RPM device. Explain how the data is transmitted and how the patient can review their data. This can be done in a telehealth appointment.
- How do I find a device? Refer your patient to a medical equipment provider in their area. The equipment provider can set them up with the device and provide support. Some devices have different features, so it is helpful to explain these to the patient. You can also provide recommendations, when appropriate, to help the patient select a device that works for them.
- What information is collected? Tell your patient what types of readings you will get from their device and how you will receive that information.
- How will I remember? Make sure your patient has written instructions they can refer to. This includes an email on who to contact if they have questions. You may also decide to provide a document they can access on their computer and print.
- What if I have other questions? Ask your patient to write down their questions and either call your office or send their questions through a patient portal. You can encourage them to request a follow-up appointment if they have questions that require a conversation.
- How do I know if my data was received? When the patient first starts using the device, a member of your staff should let your patient know that their information was received.
Support from loved ones
Family members and caregivers can play an important role in helping patients use RPM. Here are some ways they can help:
- Learn about RPM. Family members should understand what RPM is, how the devices work, what data is collected, and how it is shared with health care providers. This information will help them support the patient in transmitting their data.
- Encourage regular use. Family members can gently remind loved ones to use or wear the RPM devices as required. This is essential to capture the data accurately.
- Assist with technology. Family members, especially those caring for older or younger loved ones, can provide hands-on help. This includes helping to attach the device, charge batteries, and set up an account.
- Help transmit data. Depending on the RPM system, family members may be able to assist the patient with entering health data like symptoms or diet.
- Investigate out-of-range data. Family members can review RPM data summaries. If data levels are unusual or cause concern, the family member can ask the patient to check that the reading is correct. If needed, they can help the patient contact their provider.
More information:
What is remote patient monitoring? — Health Resources and Services Administration