BJC ACO begins remote patient monitoring for patients with CHF or COPD

In February 2021, the BJC Accountable Care Organization (ACO) began remote patient monitoring technology using Bluetooth-enabled devices and tablets to manage patients after being discharged from the hospital. Patients who have CHF and/or COPD with a recent hospitalization have been receiving the devices, but plans are to expand to additional diagnoses as well as those patients without a recent hospitalization.  This program helps to identify any abnormal vital signs, weight, or survey responses that may be an early indicator of the worsening of the patient’s condition.

Once patients have given their consent equipment; including a scale, pulse oximeter, blood pressure cuff, and a tablet; are delivered to their homes.  If needed, an ACO team member will assist the patient with set up of their equipment.  Patients take their vitals and answer survey questions regarding their symptoms on a daily basis.   The information is then transmitted to the ACO nurses with any alerts via a portal.   ACO nurses follow up and provide any intervention that is needed including notifying the patient’s primary care physician of the alerts and following up if anything further is needed, such as medication adjustments or other orders.