Remote patient monitoring (RPM) has become increasingly popular in recent years, with Insider Intelligence’s 2021 survey revealing that there were 39.3 million remote patient monitoring devices in use. This figure is expected to increase to 70.6 million users by 2025. As such, remote patient monitoring companies are working hard to meet market demand and keep up with the latest technology in order to provide the best devices for collecting accurate health data. RPM has also emerged as a key player in preventative healthcare, allowing healthcare providers to identify potential health problems before they escalate.
Modern technology has significantly improved remote patient monitoring devices, expanding the types of devices and what they monitor. While pacemakers and rotary landlines have been used in previous years, blood pressure monitors, glucose monitors, heart rate monitors, pulse oximeters, and respiratory monitors are now the most common devices being used. Remote patient monitoring companies are improving the science and technology behind these devices by creating smaller and less bulky devices, such as placing glucose monitors under the skin for easy access.
Personal devices such as wearables, including the Oura ring, Fitbit, and Apple Watch, are also being integrated into remote patient monitoring systems. Additionally, there are devices for tracking fertility cycles, heart screens for heart disease patients, and data analysis for eating disorders. Current technology has also improved data transmission, making wearable devices more accurate and easier to use.
The Benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring and Wearable Technology for Personalized Care
While a good portion of the patients using RPMs are elderly, younger generations are also beginning to prioritize their health and are adopting personal wearable technology. Remote patient monitoring differs from telehealth, which is the provision of healthcare remotely, covering general health, skin issues, prescription refills, nutritional care, mental health care, and some urgent care such as UTIs. RPM conveys health information to medical personnel, functional medicine providers, coaches, and patients themselves, allowing providers to stay informed and up-to-date on a client’s health as monitoring continuously sends data.
Remote patient monitoring devices collect data through modern-day technology using specified programming, which is transmitted via wireless communication to a command center at the healthcare facility. This real-time and accurate data allows healthcare providers to make any necessary changes to treatment plans as they are needed, taking healthcare one step further than just using these devices when a patient is not feeling well enough to go in for a visit.
The Advantages of Remote Patient Monitoring
One of the major benefits of remote patient monitoring is the ability to provide personalized care. By collecting data on a patient’s health on a continuous basis, healthcare providers can identify any changes or trends that may indicate a need for adjustment in treatment or medication. This proactive approach can help to prevent hospitalizations and reduce healthcare costs.
Remote patient monitoring can also be especially beneficial for patients who live in rural or remote areas, where access to healthcare facilities may be limited. By using remote patient monitoring devices, patients can receive the care they need without having to travel long distances, which can be especially challenging for those with chronic conditions.
In addition, remote patient monitoring can help to reduce the burden on healthcare providers and staff. By automating the collection and transmission of health data, healthcare providers can focus their time and resources on providing care and treatment. This can help to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction, while also reducing healthcare costs.
An International Solution for Remote Patient Monitoring
One example of an international solution for remote patient monitoring is MyClearStep. MyClearStep provides a range of remote patient monitoring solutions that enable healthcare providers to monitor patients’ health in real-time and make data-driven decisions. Their solutions include devices such as blood pressure monitors, glucose monitors, and pulse oximeters, as well as wearable devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers. To register and get in touch with a clinician press here.
With MyClearStep, healthcare providers can remotely monitor patients’ vital signs and health metrics, and receive alerts when there are significant changes or trends. They can also use the platform to communicate with patients and provide support, guidance, and education.
Overall, remote patient monitoring is an important trend in healthcare that is transforming the way that healthcare is delivered. With advances in technology and a growing demand for personalized care, remote patient monitoring is poised to become an increasingly important part of healthcare delivery in the coming years. If you are interested in learning more about remote patient monitoring and how it can benefit you or your patients, it may be worth exploring solutions like MyClearStep.
