Using a centralized nursing team to implement multi-specialty pediatric remote patient monitoring programs.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The increase in telehealth usage has sustained since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. While Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) programs are abundantly used in the management of adults, pediatric RPM programs remain rare. METHODS: An RPM department was developed to serve several, multi-specialty pediatric programs. This department uses a centralized nursing team that manages all patients enrolled in RPM programs. Each program is unique and created in partnership with the centralized nurses and the ambulatory care teams. The various programs allow for transmission of patient- and caregiver-generated health data and consistent communication between the patient or caregiver and the managing providers, allowing for real-time plan adaptation. FINDINGS: Over 1200 patients have been managed through the 18 various RPM programs. Approximately 300 patients are monitored each month by the centralized nursing team. Patient and caregiver experience has been high due to resources offered including on-demand video visits and text messaging with the nursing team. DISCUSSION: Multi-specialty RPM departments help to expand the reach of an institution and provide care to more patients. Quality improvement must be ongoing to ensure equity of participation and perceived benefit of the programs for both providers and patients and caregivers. APPLICATION TO PRACTICE Pediatric RPM programs can improve patient care delivery by decreasing days away from home while improving access to care. Ensuring equitable opportunity for patient participation is imperative in achieving success for an RPM department.