Many new technologies are taking the medical industry by storm. One of these technological trends is what is known as Remote Patient Management, or RPM. This trend stands to be a great way to save time and money, so it is understandable why plenty of healthcare professionals are jumping on the bandwagon.
In this article, we will go over what RPM means and what benefits it can bring you to give you a better understanding of its importance. Use the information below to help you decide whether an RPM system is right for you.
What Is RPM?
Remote patient management systems use different digital technologies to monitor patients. RPM is special because patients in one location may be monitored by various healthcare professionals and physicians in other remote locations.
Although there may be some disadvantages, such as the patient needing to submit themselves to a physical evaluation before RPM or that annual physical exams may still be required, the positive side of an RPM system still bears more weight.
RPM works by using wearable technology, such as heart rate monitors, blood pressure machines, and glucose meters, to securely transmit a patient’s medical data to medical professionals in another location.
The results and data collected will be assessed and analyzed by a medical team. They will use the data to provide recommendations as to the treatment and medication of the patient.
Physicians use the patient’s collected data to assess whether they need to update or change anything about their treatment or medication plan. All the information will be transmitted electronically. Once the doctors finish their analysis, they may also contact their patients and send the results back virtually as well.
Benefits of Using RPM Technology
There are specific benefits that can apply to both patients and healthcare professionals alike. Remote patient monitoring will have more significant benefits that extend much further than just convenience.
For Patients
For patients who are unable to move around easily or have difficulties getting from one place to another on their own, RPM may be a welcome addition to their medical treatment. It will make it much easier for them to get the medical treatment they need.
For Everybody
Staying home is paramount during the pandemic, as it will help keep COVID-19 at bay by lessening physical interactions between patients and medical staff. Patients who are vulnerable will not need to go into medical facilities to get the treatment they need.
For Healthcare Staff
Healthcare professionals will be able to maximize their time during their shifts because they will not have to devote time and effort to travel to patients’ residences to administer home care.
Conclusion
Investing in an RPM system may seem intimidating and, quite frankly, expensive. However, the advantages of having such a system will outweigh the downsides. Medical staff and patients will be able to practice social and physical distancing protocols that align with the safety regulations of the pandemic, and at the same time, these patients will still be able to get the treatment and medical attention they need from their physicians.
Medistics Health offers medical services relating to chronic conditions, behavioral health conditions, or if a patient needs help transitioning out of an inpatient facility. We aim to make the experience easier. If you need help with your RPM system, call us! We will be happy to help you with that, too!