FAQ

What is RPM?

RPM stands for Remote Physiologic Monitoring. It is also sometimes referred to as Remote Patient Monitoring. RPM is the collection of health data by a patient, often from outside conventional care settings, which is then electronically and securely transmitted to a provider for use in care and related support. Remotely transmitted health data is analyzed and used for management of a treatment plan.

What are the benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring to healthcare providers?

• Technology-driven tools make healthcare more accessible and user-friendly
• Engagement with patient between in-office visits
• Empower patients to better manage their health and participate in their healthcare
• Better management of patients with chronic conditions, such as hypertension, heart failure, and rhythm related issues
• Increased capacity and reach to engage patients remotely
• Increased observation of patients’ adherence to treatment and prospective for timely intervention
• Ability to address changes in patient's health between visits and change course of treatment

What are the benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring to patients?

• Better access to healthcare, as RPM creates increased capacity for physicians to treat more patients
• Improved quality of care, with more real-time data being delivered to physicians in an electronic format which helps drive efficiencies
• Peace of mind and reassurance as a result of daily monitoring, with more frequent engagement from care team
• Promotes adherence to care plans, resulting in fewer unnecessary emergency room visits and hospitalizations
• Improved support, education, and feedback, as RPM increases interaction with their care team through monthly communication

How long should a patient be enrolled in an RPM program?

RPM is for patients with a chronic condition, such as hypertension, atrial fibrillation, congestive heart failure, COPD, just to name a few. These patients would have RPM added to their care plan as a part of their daily routine, no different than recommending the patient decrease salt intake, drink more water, exercise, and take their medications. The goal is to monitor these patients between visits to ensure that their condition does not worsen, or that they do not become resistant to their medication. Length of use is determined on a case by case basis.

Which billing codes can be used for reimbursement of Remote Physiological Monitoring?

• 99453: PATIENT SET-UP AND EDUCATION – Remote monitoring of physiologic parameter(s) (e.g., weight, blood pressure, pulse oximetry, respiratory flow rate), initial set-up and patient education on use of equipment
• 99454: DEVICE AND TRANSMISSION OF DATA – Device supply with daily recording(s) or programmed alert(s) transmission, every 30 days
• 99457: INTERPRETATION AND MANAGEMENT – Remote physiologic monitoring treatment management services, 20 minutes or more, by clinical staff/physician/other qualified health care professional, in a calendar month, requiring interactive communication with the patient/caregiver
• 99458: INTERPRETATION AND MANAGEMENT – Each additional 20 minutes with patient during the month
  

Which insurance plans cover RPM services?

RPM is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare. Some patients will have a minimal out-of-pocket expense, while many will have none. We will do an analysis of the plans currently contracted by your practice to advise you of which ones will cover these services and how much of the cost they will absorb.

What devices are supported on your RPM platform?

We supply appropriate FDA approved RPM devices, including blood pressure monitors, electrocardiograms, weight scales, pulse oximeters and blood glucose monitors. We are always looking for new devices to add to our RPM platform. If you have interest in a product not currently included in our program, please reach out to our sales team.

What is the cost of running an RPM service at my practice?

Our model is not one-size-fits-all! We will assess the needs of your practice to custom tailor the RPM service model which would be most compatible with the unique needs of your practice. If you are interested in an assessment, please contact us.