Approximately 100 million Americans suffer from one or more chronic illnesses, such as congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, and diabetes. Such conditions account for more than 75 percent of annual healthcare costs nationally. By using in-home telemonitoring, healthcare providers can more effectively manage patient health, preventing complications that may lead to re-hospitalizations and emergency room visits.
Q—What is in-home telemonitoring?
A—In-home telemonitoring is the use of telecommunications and information technology to provide healthcare to patients in their home. A telemonitor is a discreet in-home device that allows you to monitor your own vitals signs—such as blood pressure, pulse, oxygen, glucose, and weight—daily, as specified by your physician. Patients also answer a series of evaluative questions based on their specific illnesses. The data are transmitted to a nurse periodically (often daily) for review, which allows the nurse to take appropriate actions based on the data.
Q—What can in-home telemonitors do?
A—In-home telemonitors are not intended to eliminate in-home nursing visits. But, they will help decrease the frequency of unnecessary visits, while maximizing the effectiveness of time spent by a nurse or therapist in a patient’s home. Telemonitoring in-home allows healthcare providers to:
• Collect vital data and transmit it to nurses and/or physicians daily for review
• Increase response to patient needs as they occur
• Provide patients with the right care, in the right place, at the right time
Q—What are the benefits of in-home telemonitors?
A—In-home telemonitoring provides patients, caregivers, and physicians with these benefits:
• Improved self-management skills for patients living with chronic illnesses
• Improved quality of life due to reduced hospital and emergency visits
• Increased independence and self-esteem
• Increased satisfaction and compliance with healthcare regimens
• More efficient communication with physicians and nurses
To learn more about the VNA’s in-home telemonitoring technology and how it may be of benefit to you, call 772.567.5551.
