What are the advantages and disadvantages of remote monitoring for patients?

The arrival of COVID-19 in 2020 bought huge challenges to the way healthcare was delivered. Remote monitoring technology helped to meet those challenges by allowing people to be cared for in the comfort of their own home and reducing the risk of infection. When you are being cared for at home, remote monitoring technology provides reassurance that your clinical information is professionals who will provide help when it’s needed.

Remote monitoring has been used in four ways:

• Virtual wards.
• Care homes.
• Mental health.
• Long-term conditions.

The evidence base around remote monitoring is currently relatively limited, however a recent systematic review carried out by NHS England found that in all virtual ward models patient experience was positive. The review also found that heart failure early discharge patients specifically had lower mortality, few readmissions, and lower costs.  An evaluation carried out by the Health Innovation Network on Croydon Virtual Wards also found benefits for both patients and staff. Patients and their carers felt they were receiving the same standards of care as they would in a hospital environment, within the comfort of their own home, but with peace of mind. Clinical staff also reported positive experiences of working on the ward.

As with the expansion of any technology, there have also been challenges in remote monitoring, including the level of trust in the systems and what would happen if something went wrong. These concerns have been considered and mitigations such as robust technical standards, test projects and feedback systems have been put in place to make sure risks are minimised and patient care is optimised.

For further information on Remote Monitoring please see:

• NHS England – Virtual Wards