Northwest Health launches patient home monitoring

Springdale-based Northwest Health now offers virtual care and remote monitoring for patients coping with certain chronic health conditions.

Care Management at Home is the name of the program. Initially, it will serve patients managing hypertension, heart failure, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The goal is to help patients stay well between doctor visits and reduce avoidable hospitalizations.

Northwest Health is partnering with health tech company Cadence for the service. Qualified patients will be given cellular-enabled devices to capture daily vital information. Readings are transferred to Cadence clinicians who can help monitor changes in a patient’s condition and provide virtual care support when needed.

According to Northwest Health, other benefits of remote patient monitoring can include fewer preventable hospitalizations and a reduction in the cost of care for specific patient populations.

“We are committed to delivering more ways to help people in our community get well and live healthier,” Chris York, Northwest Health market CEO, said in a statement. “Remote patient monitoring is an innovative and convenient way for patients to monitor changes to their health and can provide peace of mind for patients who have serious health concerns.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 60% of Americans have at least one chronic condition, and 40% have two or more chronic conditions. Chronic conditions are among the leading causes of death and disability in the U.S. and a leading driver of health care costs.

According to a Northwest Health spokeswoman, its providers review patient eligibility and provide patients with information on the program. The program doesn’t have a patient limit. Participating patients are billed through their health insurance, and the cost depends on the coverage.