Integrating RPM into your workflow: A practical guide

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In Part I of our series on remote patient monitoring (RPM), we explored the foundational aspects of RPM, delving into its definition, core functionalities, and the benefits it offers to both clinicians and patients. Now, the next step is to translate the promise of RPM into practical, day-to-day clinical reality. Part II focuses on actionable strategies to implement RPM, transforming it from a technological add-on into an indispensable component of providing patient care.

Laying the Foundation for Success

The success of an RPM program is contingent upon three pivotal components: device ease of use, clinician buy-in, and the patient-doctor relationship. Let’s outline why these key points matter before we get into implementation.

Device technology matters. Choose devices that will be easy to use for your patient population.

A patient’s ability and willingness to consistently use their devices is pivotal. Cellular-enabled devices are a great option because they enable data to be transmitted directly from the device to the doctor’s software and do not require the patient to connect to a smartphone app or even have WiFi. By streamlining the device setup and data transmission processes, you can enhance patient engagement and promote compliance, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.

Buy-in will depend on determining program goals and identifying a program champion.

The most sustainable RPM programs are the programs that are not solely focused on revenue reimbursement, but also quality improvements and staff efficiency. Some staff efficiency will come from EHR integration — but more broadly, being able to see what’s going on with a patient in between visits with insightful and actionable data makes in-clinic visits more impactful.

A program champion will understand this and be able to convey to colleagues that this isn’t adding work – it’s making their day-to-day more efficient and providing better patient care.

The patient-doctor relationship should be at the center of your RPM program.

Patients are more likely to take their measurements as often as directed when they are encouraged to by someone they know and trust. In turn, the data that RPM provides between visits offers more useful and efficient patient-provider follow-ups, further strengthening the patient’s trust in the provider and highlighting the value of RPM for the patient.

While some practices may be tempted to fully delegate patient enrollment to a third party, this approach can be counterproductive. Without the direct involvement of their trusted health care provider, patients may view the program as generic rather than a personalized part of their care plan.

If a practice chooses to use a third party for enrollment, it is essential to maintain a level of physician participation. This could involve the patient receiving a personalized video from their doctor or nurse that explains the value of RPM and why they are specifically recommended for the program. This personal touch reinforces the doctor's endorsement and helps patients feel more connected and committed to their health journey, thereby strengthening the patient-doctor relationship at every step.

By prioritizing user-friendly technology, securing clinician support, and maintaining a strong patient-provider connection, health care organizations can unlock the full potential of RPM.

Now that we’ve covered these three essential factors, let’s get into the steps to integrate RPM into your workflow.

Step 1: Identify strategic clinical use cases for RPM

A strategic approach is key to a successful rollout of your RPM program. Think about which patient populations you’d like to start with. An example could be high-impact patient populations such as patients with conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or heart failure.

It is also important to explore use cases that have the most applicability across your practice. For instance, what type of chronic conditions do you most frequently treat? Even if there is a high prevalence of multiple conditions, you can pick one to begin with and then add on to it.

Starting with a specific group of patients and a focus area will allow you and your team to gain hands-on experience and identify or resolve any workflow opportunities before expanding the program more broadly.

Step 2: Choose the right technology

When selecting technology for your RPM program, it's crucial to choose a solution that aligns with both clinical needs and practical considerations. The ideal technology will include patient-friendly devices that are intuitive and easy to use, ensuring high patient engagement and adherence. The platform should also be user-friendly for clinical staff, offering features that simplify workflows, such as the ability to prioritize high-risk patients and provide thorough documentation for both clinical care and billing purposes.

Additionally, a successful RPM solution offers flexibility and scalability. It should provide clinical support services if needed, helping your practice ease into the program. The technology should also be able to grow with your practice, allowing you to expand beyond an initial clinical focus to address a broader range of patient needs and chronic conditions over time.

Step 3: Define roles and responsibilities

Having a successful RPM program requires defined roles within your clinical team. A program champion will make sure the right stakeholders are involved during implementation to ensure:

• Standardized Patient Onboarding & Education
• Data Review Protocols
• Defined Communication Pathways
• Billing & Reimbursement Strategies

Step 4: Evaluate progress

Regularly assess and refine your program by monitoring key performance indicators such as patient adherence rates and patient and staff satisfaction. Be sure to solicit input from your team regarding workflow efficiency and suggestions for improvement. And, continue to adapt and evolve your RPM and workflow protocols to continue to meet your team and patient needs.

Additionally, work with your platform partner to ensure your goals are being met, for user training and guidance, and to review outcomes. By working collaboratively and regularly communicating with your RPM provider, you can fine-tune your RPM program to align with your specific goals and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

By adopting these practical strategies, physicians can confidently navigate the integration of RPM into their practice. The result is a more efficient, proactive, and patient-centered model of care that benefits everyone involved.

Stay tuned for our final part in this series, where we will cover navigating reimbursement and embracing the future of RPM.

Lucienne Ide, M.D., Ph.D., is Chief Executive Officer of Rimidi

Emily Jimenez is Director of Solution Sales at Henry Schein Medical