Thursday, May 9, 2019

Word of the Day: remote patient monitoring (RPM)

Word of the Day WhatIs.com
Daily updates on the latest technology terms | May 9, 2019
remote patient monitoring (RPM)

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a subcategory of homecare telehealth that allows patients to use mobile medical devices and technology to gather patient-generated health data (PGHD) and send it to healthcare professionals. Common physiological data that can be collected with RPM programs include vital signs, weight, blood pressure and heart rate. Once collected, patient data is sent to a physician's office by using a special telehealth computer system or software application that can be installed on a computer, smartphone or tablet.

RPM is frequently used to help patients that require chronic, post-discharge or senior care. By connecting high-risk patients with remote monitoring, it can notify healthcare organizations of potential health issues or keep track of patient data between visits. Additionally, RPM could be used by businesses that want to record workmen's compensation cases, making sure employees are on the right path to return to work.

Examples of remote patient monitoring technology

RPM technology can range from handheld medical devices to online platforms that allow patients to input data. A few examples include:

  • Glucose meters for patients with diabetes.
  • Heart rate or blood pressure monitors.
  • Continuous surveillance monitors that can locate patients with conditions like dementia and alert healthcare professionals of an event like a fall.
  • Remote infertility treatment and monitoring.
  • At-home tests that can keep substance abuse patients accountable for and on track with their goals.
  • Caloric intake or diet logging programs.

How remote patient monitoring works

While RPM techniques can vary depending on the device being used or the condition being monitored, most of the technology includes similar components. The first is a wireless-enabled sensor that can measure specific physiological parameters and store the data it collects. This storage must also include a way to connect with additional sensors, healthcare provider databases and related applications. Applications typically provide users with an interface to track or analyze the data and display treatment recommendations.

The data collected by RPM devices is sent to the proper location and stored in a relational database. This allows healthcare organizations with wireless telecommunications data to be looked at as individual instances or in the context of an entire health history. Often, the device can alert patients when a healthcare provider has looked over the data or detects an issue that requires the patient to come in.

Benefits of remote patient monitoring

  • Increased patient engagement- RPM devices allow patients to play a crucial role in managing and understanding their own health conditions.
  • Improved quality of care- RPM gives patients and healthcare providers access to more relevant patient data, thus improving overall quality and value-based care.
  • Better access to healthcare- Since RPM allows patients to complete basic health testing on their own, healthcare professionals are allowed to treat more patients.
  • Higher levels of education and support- RPM gives patients information and feedback about their personal conditions daily, educating them and providing support.
  • Patient assurance- Constant monitoring can give patients a peace of mind that any potential issues will be identified in a timely manner.

Quote of the Day

 
"Remote patient monitoring enables patients to be proactive about their health while providing their physicians or care teams with greater insight." - Reda Chouffani

Learning Center

 

Remote patient monitoring enables better patient engagement
Healthcare organizations that want to implement remote patient monitoring should consider benefits like increased patient engagement and acquisition, as well as security concerns and added costs.

How IoT and 5G are improving remote patient monitoring
The promise of remote patient monitoring is often hindered by a patient's inability to use up-to-date devices in areas with proper connectivity. Clarify360's Michael Jordan explains how IoT and 5G are coming to the rescue.

Remote patient monitoring technology becoming imperative for providers
Remote patient monitoring technology is important for healthcare systems that need to effectively manage groups of patients with chronic conditions.

Hospital IT must manage, secure remote patient monitoring devices
As remote patient monitoring devices continue to proliferate, hospital IT must ensure that device security and management isn't too complicated for patients.

Connected health devices feed patient-monitoring system
Connected health devices allowing continuous data collection are enabling AlacrityCare to develop a product that monitors and collects vital information from oncology patients who are recovering at home.

Quiz Yourself

 
An accountable care organization (ACO) is a network of doctors and hospitals that _____ responsibility for providing care to patients.
a. share
b. shares

Answer

Stay in Touch

 
For feedback about any of our definitions or to suggest a new definition, please contact me at: mrouse@techtarget.com

Visit the Word of the Day Archives and catch up on what you've missed!

FOLLOW US

TwitterRSS
About This E-Newsletter
This e-newsletter is published by the TechTarget network. To unsubscribe from Whatis.com, click here. Please note, this will not affect any other subscriptions you have signed up for.
TechTarget

TechTarget, Whatis, 275 Grove Street, Newton, MA 02466. Contact: webmaster@techtarget.com

Copyright 2018 TechTarget. All rights reserved.

No comments: