The Remote Patient Monitoring program uses technological health monitoring equipment to help people who have been in hospital for chronic lung disease, heart failure and/or diabetes, to manage their health.
The clients can monitor key vital signs through their smart device, with the information shared with their GP, specialists and RPM staff who can help them stay well and out of hospital if possible.
A recent analysis of clients who had been on the program for six months showed hospital presentations and emergency department attendances had halved.
One of the program’s clients, Rhys Pontelandolfo, said the complex care program had been crucial in his quick and significant recovery from heart failure.
“The ability to actively manage my weight and blood pressure daily was a key player in this recovery,” he said.
“The beauty of being on the program is being able to see results from days and weeks prior to keep track and monitor any changes, good or bad.
“It also gave the nurses the ability to message me if they noticed changes in my vital signs and question whether I was okay, why it had changed and how to fix the changes.”
The program is offered through ERH’s complex care program for people with conditions which see them come into hospital more.
Clients are admitted to the program for six or 12 months and supported by senior nursing staff face-to-face or over the phone.
Mick Clarke is another client who has seen great value from the program.
“When I have a low reading someone from RPM will contact me to check up to make sure all is well and offer advice and support,” he said.
People can be referred to the program by a member of their health care team or they can refer themselves by calling 5485 5855.
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