FAQs about telehealth
Home much does it cost the patient?
Nothing. (Really!) For Medicare patients under our care, we are using it as an enhancement to our plan of care and are utilizing our Medicare reimbursement to cover the cost of the system.
What kinds of patients benefits from this service?
Those with chronic diseases such as congestive heart failure (CHF), high blood pressure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) would benefit from daily home monitoring. Daily vital signs readings can aid in the management of those with chronic disease, medications can be assessed and titrated, exacerbations of a condition can be prevented, and trended clinical data can be used for purposes of intervention. The only patients that may not benefit from monitoring are those who cannot utilize the system due to physical, mental, or environmental limitations.
What happens if the patient does not take their Health Check on a particular day?
If the patient does not complete their Health Check, our nurse is notified by the system in our office and can then intervene appropriately.
How is the data transmitted?
Data is transmitted securely by a landline telephone modem to a toll-free number. There is never a charge to the patient for the transmission of the data.
Can the blood pressure be taken on either arm?
Yes! According to American Heart Association guidelines, we teach the patients to use their left arm when checking their blood pressure, but the patient can certainly use either arm, especially in the case of post-mastectomy patients and/or patient with decreased range of motion issues.
Is the monitor really accurate?
The monitor is an FDA Class II medical device, so you should feel comfortable in its consistency and accuracy.
What if the patient can’t weigh themselves?
If the patient can’t weigh themselves due to various reasons such as being bed- or wheelchair-bound, or if weighing themselves would pose a fall or safety risk, the weight scale is not incorporated into the monitoring. Collecting other vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and getting answers to symptoms and compliance questions is often enough to make a significant impact and improve their clinical outcomes.
We can also get our therapists involved to work with patients on strength and balance.
How is telehealth monitoring ordered?
Telehealth services will be ordered by a patient’s physician, ensuring that the physician is actively informed and involved in the monitoring process.
What languages are supported by the monitors?
The monitors are available in both English and Spanish.
What if I have additional questions?
We’d be happy to answer all your questions and explain the many benefits of telehealth monitoring.
For a free consultation, call us at (616) 235-5113.