Understanding the difference between RPM and RTM in the context of remote, virtual and telehealth services
As telehealth services continue to gain popularity, healthcare providers often encounter questions about the differences between Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) and Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM). This article will explain the key distinctions between these two telehealth services and how they can be used to provide effective remote care to patients.
Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)
RPM is a telehealth service that involves the collection and analysis of patient physiologic data, such as blood pressure, pulse oximetry, heart rate, and other vital signs.
This information is collected using medical devices and transmitted to healthcare providers, who can then use the data to monitor the patient's health, make timely interventions, and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM)
On the other hand, RTM is designed for the management of patients using medical devices that collect non-physiological data.
Examples of such devices include mobile health apps, therapy adherence devices, and other tools that help monitor a patient's response to therapy, track progress, and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
Key Differences Between RPM and RTM
The main difference between RPM and RTM lies in the type of data collected and the purpose of the monitoring:
- Data Type: RPM focuses on collecting physiologic data, while RTM collects non-physiological data to evaluate a patient's response to therapy.
- Purpose: RPM is primarily used for monitoring a patient's vital signs and overall health, while RTM aims to optimize the patient's therapy, rehabilitation, and care outside of the clinical setting.