Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a technology-driven approach that has revolutionized healthcare in recent years. It allows healthcare providers to monitor patients remotely and collect valuable health data using various digital tools. In the field of neurology, RPM has emerged as an effective way to track neurological conditions and improve patient outcomes. Here, we will discuss the use of RPM in neurology and its potential benefits.
RPM in Neurology
RPM can be used for the management of several neurological disorders such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. With the help of RPM, healthcare providers can monitor the patient’s symptoms and vital signs, and adjust the treatment plan accordingly. The use of RPM has shown promising results in improving the quality of care, reducing hospitalizations, and improving patient outcomes.
For instance, studies have shown that RPM can improve seizure control in patients with epilepsy. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Neurology, researchers found that using RPM to monitor seizure activity in patients with epilepsy resulted in a 53% reduction in seizures and a 40% decrease in hospitalizations. Another study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that RPM was effective in managing Parkinson’s disease symptoms and reducing hospitalizations.
Benefits of RPM in Neurology
The use of RPM in neurology has several potential benefits for both patients and healthcare providers. For patients, RPM can provide greater convenience and reduce the need for frequent visits to the hospital. It also allows patients to be more involved in their own care, as they can actively monitor their symptoms and communicate with their healthcare providers.
For healthcare providers, RPM can improve patient outcomes, increase patient engagement, and reduce the cost of care. By remotely monitoring patients, providers can detect early warning signs of complications and intervene before a patient’s condition worsens. RPM can also reduce the need for hospitalizations and emergency department visits, resulting in cost savings for healthcare organizations.
Conclusion
The use of RPM in neurology has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. As the technology continues to evolve, RPM will become increasingly accessible to patients and healthcare providers. However, the adoption of RPM in neurology still faces some challenges, including regulatory and reimbursement barriers, patient engagement, and data security concerns. Despite these challenges, RPM holds great promise for improving the quality of care and outcomes for patients with neurological disorders.
References:
- Jobst BC, Cascino GD. Reshaping Epilepsy Management Using Remote Monitoring. J Clin Neurophysiol. 2019;36(1):24-30. doi:10.1097/WNP.0000000000000543
- Dorsey ER, Papapetropoulos S, Xiong M, et al. The First Frontier: Digital Biomarkers for Neurodegenerative Disorders. Digital Biomarkers. 2017;1(1):6-13. doi:10.1159/000481380
- Dorsey ER, Venkataraman V, Grana MJ, et al. Randomized controlled clinical trial of “virtual house calls” for Parkinson disease. JAMA Neurol. 2013;70(5):565-570. doi:10.1001/jamaneurol.2013.1234