Remote patient monitoring: How it benefits primary care

RPM can help primary care: ©Metamorworks - stock.adobe.com

Primary care physicians (PCPs) operating independent practices strive for efficiency, quality and patient satisfaction. Every day, they face the challenge of managing large patient panels while delivering personalized, effective care. Remote patient monitoring (RPM) can help them meet these demands efficiently at scale, improving care delivery and reshaping patient outcomes.

PCPs are in demand. Some treat up to 3,000 patients per year, but research shows they can effectively treat only a maximum of 983 patients if they do all of the work themselves. PCPs need help, and by incorporating RPM technologies such as data analytics and connected-care devices into a comprehensive remote care management plan, PCPs can extend treatment to more patients, especially those with chronic conditions.

For example, in practices with a well-run RPM program, much of the high-touch care between office visits is provided by medical assistants and nurses using algorithms embedded in the platform’s software, which enables physicians to focus on more complicated and urgent matters.

RPM programs empower PCPs to proactively monitor, manage, and intervene in patient care, averting costly interventions and hospitalizations. Results of a recent study by MD Revolution and Cardiac Solutions underscore the profound impact of RPM on reducing hospital readmissions, particularly in cardiovascular care.

The findings revealed a 50% reduction in 30-day readmission rates among patients enrolled in RPM programs compared with those not enrolled. A reduction in hospital readmissions translates into millions of dollars in savings for health systems and patients and reflects tangible improvements in patient well-being and care delivery.

At a time when unexpected medical bills and health care services are the number one cost concern among U.S. adults, reducing unexpected and costly hospital readmissions has a meaningful impact on the lives of patients.

For PCPs, incorporating an RPM into their practice can attract new patients, increase patient retention and boost revenue. The technology enables PCPs to treat the same number of patients more effectively with the same staff under Medicare billing codes such as Chronic Care Management, Transitional Care Management, and Annual Wellness Visits that reimburse physicians for care coordination that is not face-to-face and monitoring services for eligible patients.

By meeting new quality measures and benchmarks required under value-based reimbursement models such as the Medicare Shared Savings Program and the Merit-based Incentive Payment System, PCPs who demonstrate high-quality and cost-effective care can increase their financial compensation.

RPM enhances patient retention by providing personalized, convenient care that improves patient satisfaction and outcomes. It attracts new patients looking for innovative and accessible health care solutions. And according to the results of one study, many patients view RPM as “concierge care,” traditionally thought of as high-end care.

Although there are many RPM products available, each practice needs to consider the capabilities and benefits that are right for them. Selecting an RPM partner that offers scalable, user-friendly solutions with integrated data capabilities is crucial for maximizing return on investment and achieving sustainable practice growth. Training and support for both patients and staff will ensure seamless integration and optimal utilization of RPM technologies.

As we move toward a more patient-centered, value-driven health care system, the role of RPM cannot be overstated. By harnessing the power of technology, data and connectivity, PCPs can revolutionize care delivery, improve patient outcomes and drive practice sustainability.

As physicians, we must seize the promise of RPM to help usher in a new era of proactive, personalized primary care.

Samir Damani, M.D., is a practicing physician and the co-founder of MD Revolution, an RPM company.