Disclaimer: This blog article was written by an AdvancedMD partner. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of AdvancedMD.
While it’s true that the use of telehealth and remote patient monitoring skyrocketed during the Covid-19 pandemic, RPM was already becoming an increasingly popular option with healthcare providers and patients alike. Reputable remote patient monitoring solutions have been utilized for years by many leading hospitals, physician groups, and home health providers for improving patient outcomes, supporting disease management, reducing hospitalizations, and encouraging patient self-management.
However, all RPM platforms are not equal. Whether you have an existing RPM program, or your organization is exploring an RPM program for the first time, assessing current or potential partners is vitally important to the success of onboarding, patient adherence, and revenue generation for your practice. Here are a few significant elements to consider when choosing an RPM solution:
1. History
Many start-ups and other technology companies are racing to adapt an RPM model by shifting their focus to capitalize on what they see as a lucrative current business opportunity, but can they really offer a comprehensive, diverse, and dependable RPM solution? Choosing a company with history, experience, and financial stability earned over time should be a critical factor in your decision. Focus on reputable companies with a proven healthcare technology business model that can help you seamlessly integrate RPM into your practice while delivering a best-in-class experience for patients as well as your healthcare staff.
2. Compatibility
The platform you choose should work seamlessly with your EMR system and patient portal—and all user groups should have the ability to send data from devices accurately, on time, and securely—right to your systems. Additionally, it should be intuitive and simple to use for health professionals, patients, members, and caregivers. The system should be able to monitor and detect health changes to easily identify at-risk patients and flag intervention alerts before escalation of care is necessary.
3. Competitive Pricing
Finding a one-stop-shop where product, service, fulfillment and support are all “under one roof” will ensure program success and save you money in the long run. Don’t forget to inquire about monthly connection charges, app fees, and other potential hidden costs that may reveal themselves later when it’s too late to object. Be clear about what you’re getting upfront, and ask a lot of questions. A trusted RPM partner will provide plenty of guidance to help you make informed decisions.
4. Scalability
The RPM provider you choose should be staffed and equipped to implement to the size and scope of your organization—capable of scaling up and, if necessary, scaling down in response to fluctuating patient demand. When looking for an RPM provider, also be sure they are setting realistic timelines, accurate cost projections and clear expectations. Established companies should be capable of implementing and managing a large-scale deployment with multiple fulfillment centers that can get you the products you need when you need them.
5. Patient and Practice Support
Only experienced RPM providers can offer a program designed to include patient outreach, education and ongoing support to ensure your staff and patients can reap the greatest benefits from your program. A robust RPM program will also include pre-contract support, ROI transparency, managed implementation, device setup, meetings with individual clinical teams, milestone mapping, and more. Choosing an RPM partner with a full-scale program and a dedicated team committed to seeing your program from pre-contract through to implementation and execution will help your practice thrive and improve quality of life for your patients.
Selecting the right RPM solution for your practice can make all the difference in the success of your program. Remember to think long-term in regard to your choice and how they can support not only your short-term needs but how they can help forge the path toward the future you envision for your practice. By choosing an established, forward-thinking RPM provider with a proven track record of bringing innovative technology to the market faster, you’ll be well-positioned for easy implementation and poised for organizational success.
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