Since 2008, Geisinger researchers have been examining the impact telemonitoring has on heart failure patients, in terms of all-cause hospital admission rates, readmission rates and cost of care.
Instead of using a control group, researchers compared the claims of each member for when they were enrolled in the intervention compared to claims when they were not enrolled.
Patients received Bluetooth-connected scales with an interactive voice response system that asked patients questions to help determine changes in physical conditions. Their answers were transmitted to their care teams.
Researchers found the odds of a hospital admission were 23 percent lower when patients were enrolled in the telemonitoring intervention as compared to when they were not enrolled in it. The odds of experiencing a 30-day and 90-day readmission were also lower when enrolled in the intervention, at 44 percent and 38 percent, respectively.
Researchers also found a positive return on investment for the program. For every $1 spent on implementing the program, the ROI was approximately $3.30, according to the study.
Researchers suggest embedding a telemonitoring system for heart failure patients into case managers’ daily workflow could help them track and proactive address any arising issues.
More articles on telehealth:
A glimpse into Banner Health’s telemedicine success
New California law makes it easier for patients to use telemedicine
8 latest stories on telemedicine
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
