Transitional Remote Patient Monitoring Program
After discharging certain high-risk patients from VCU Medical Center, our team monitors these patients remotely for up to 30 days through our Transitional Remote Patient Monitoring (tRPM) program. We use a secure electronic system to monitor and keep track of (and send us) your vital signs as well as various clinical signs and symptoms a patient might experience during this transitional phase. For example, we’ll monitor your blood pressure, heart rate, blood oxygen level, temperature, weight and blood sugar.
Because our nurses can see your health data 24/7, they can quickly connect you with care if your vital or clinical signs aren’t where they should be. This helps improve your overall quality of care – and reduces your risk of being readmitted to the hospital.
If your care team thinks you need remote monitoring after your hospital stay, you’ll go home with a tablet and other Bluetooth-enabled equipment used to measure your vital signs. Should your vital signs fall out of normal range, the system immediately alerts our nursing team.
You’ll also have access to a care coordinator who can help arrange other services or resources you may need. This includes extra medical equipment, home health care, transportation to medical appointments or financial screenings and support.
Your hospital care team will let you know if the tRPM program is a good fit based on your healthcare needs. Benefits of the tRPM program include:
- Potentially shorter hospitalization. With remote monitoring, you don’t have to be in the hospital for us to keep an eye on your condition.
- Peace of mind, knowing your care team is monitoring your vital signs while you’re home and can respond quickly when necessary.
- Prompt access to follow-up care.
The tRPM program also includes access to telemedicine care. During the first 30 days you are home from the hospital, you may have one or more telemedicine appointments with one of our doctors or advanced practice providers. These appointments are important and ensure you have access to the care and support you need until you’re ready to begin seeing your regular provider again.
During the remote monitoring period, a nurse will check in with you by phone at least every 72 hours. If we think you need follow-up care, we’ll help you coordinate a telemedicine or in-person visit.