Empowering rural patients and practices, Remote Patient Monitoring has revolutionized the provision of preventive healthcare globally and especially in the US since the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a form of asynchronous telehealth without the need for live interaction between the patient and the healthcare provider. The providers use digital devices to assess and track patients’ health while providing quality care to patients virtually.
This contemporary healthcare model brings world-class care and monitoring to patients, irrespective of their location, whether at home or in remote areas. The ability to track vitals and share real-time updates directly with concerned care teams makes it a much more feasible option for providers, as well.
The market trends also show a bright picture. A report by Fortune Business Insights forecasts a huge surge in the global market for Remote Patient Devices, which is projected to rise from $50.39 billion in 2024 to a whopping $203.68 billion by 2032.
With a compound annual growth rate of 19.1%, the number shows a remarkable growth in less than a decade. North America is at the forefront, holding approximately 50% of the market share. This boost is primarily attributed to increasing chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), along with improved reimbursement policies and innovation in sensor technology.
Remote Patient Monitoring Definition
According to the American Medical Association (AMA), ‘RPM is a digital health solution that captures and records patient physiologic data outside of a traditional health care environment.’ The type of devices used in RPM include:
- Weight scales to keep a track of weight
- Heart and pulse rate monitors to check heartbeat and pulse
- Diabetes apparatus to measure blood sugar
- Bluetooth thermometer for checking fever
- BP monitors to check blood pressure
- Accelerometer to gauge patient sleep issues
- Spirometer to measure airflow and track breathing
- Electronic fetal monitoring tools to track the baby’s growth while the patient is pregnant
For a better understanding of RPM, here’s how three medical organizations and associations have defined this healthcare program.
U.S. Government Accountability Office
“Remote patient monitoring refers to a coordinated system that uses one or more home-based or mobile monitoring devices that transmit vital sign data or information on activities of daily living that are subsequently reviewed by a healthcare professional.”
The Center for Connected Health Policy (CCHP)
“Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is the collection of a wide range of health data from the point of care, such as vital signs, weight, and blood pressure. The data is transmitted to health professionals in facilities such as monitoring centers in primary care settings, hospitals, and intensive care units, and skilled nursing facilities.”
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)
“Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a type of telehealth in which healthcare providers monitor patients outside the traditional care setting using digital medical devices, such as weight scales, blood pressure monitors, pulse oximeters, and blood glucose meters.”
A Simple Definition or Description of Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)
A system of healthcare provision referring toward patient monitoring with the help of the latest technology and advanced devices. RPM helps collect patients’ data to share with healthcare professionals who analyze their condition, followed by devising a treatment plan.
With the help of this treatment model, providers and patients can easily collect and share vital health information outside traditional clinical settings. Based on this information, providers can amicably manage patients’ acute and chronic conditions.
RPM comes with various benefits, such as:
- Continuous monitoring of the patient’s health
- Access to quality care without the need to travel
- Simple tracking and monitoring of data
- Additional revenue stream
- Tackling emergency situations and prompting timely clinical intervention
- Easy sharing of data
- Lowers the spread of infectious diseases
- Fewer Hospital admissions
- Reduced healthcare Costs
- Enhanced Patient engagement
- Peace of mind for both parties
How Does Remote Patient Monitoring Work? Jamie Sciver’s Case
Suppose a patient named Jamie Sciver, aged 75, living on the outskirts of Nebraska, is diagnosed with a crippling cardiac disease. It has limited movements, and she seldom goes outside. Diagnosed with a chronic disease, congestive heart failure, Jamie had to endure frequent clinic visits, checkups with Cardiologists, and medications to improve her condition, but all in vain.
Excessive travelling, rising waiting times, and costs involved made her condition even worse. She was the perfect candidate for the Remote Patient Monitoring program. Based on her deteriorating condition and a thorough diagnosis, Jamie’s Cardiologist considered the patient suitable for a remote monitoring program. The provider asked her to sign the consent form to enroll in this program, which she did. The physician started remote patient monitoring sessions.
After that, it was smooth sailing for Jamie and her family, who used to accompany her on every visit. She got a complete medical kit for remote monitoring. It included various devices like a smartwatch and a Holter Monitor, to record the electrical activity of the heart’s rhythm, and detect irregular heartbeats. The kit also included other remote patient devices deemed right for her age and chronic medical condition.
As soon as she starts noticing something wrong, like an irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, or any other abnormal condition, she taps on her watch. It’s like an SOS in emergency situations. The watch starts transmitting crucial health data, such as heart rate, to her Cardiologist.
The Cardiologist acts accordingly, i.e., if it is normal, he asks the patient to stay calm or advises some precautions. Moreover, the provider can adjust Jamie’s medication accordingly without the need to travel to the clinic. They can initiate measures to stop the build-up of fluid in her lungs. The ability to transmit real-time data allows doctors to make timely adjustments, which not only enhances the well-being but can also be a lifesaver for patients.
Jamie, on the other hand, is completely satisfied with the remote treatment and enjoys spending her time leisurely at home without fretting about long, time-consuming travels. She takes better care of herself, feels happy to avoid the chaos of the city, traffic jams on the highways, and loud honking. Her family also breathes a sigh of relief and considers this revolutionary program a blessing.
The purpose of this example was to enlighten that RPM is extremely beneficial for patients suffering from chronic illnesses. Based on data transmission, even a slight adjustment in medication or treatment by healthcare providers can significantly improve the patient’s condition, enhancing their quality of life.
Role of Patient and Providers in RPM Program
Remote patient monitoring is based on two major entities: the patient and the provider. Both play a major role in making this program a success all across the US.
Role of Patients in Remote Patient Monitoring
To use the RPM model effectively, the patients must fulfil the following responsibilities.
Data Collection
Patients must use remote patient monitoring devices (RPDs), such as wearables, as directed by the physicians to monitor vital health information. Information can be collected daily, weekly, or even multiple times a day. Some devices are easy to use and transmit health data automatically to the providers. For better health outcomes, patients must learn how to use the devices and collect data as instructed by their provider.
Data Transmission
It is the process of sharing important patient information with the provider. Mostly it is done electronically, i.e., the patient has to type the data into the patient portal. The other option is to use the device to send the data automatically. Whichever way the patient is using, they must ensure regular and error-free data sharing. It is important as the healthcare provider, based on the information received, has to decide whether to continue with the same treatment or medications or change them.
Data Review
Patients are strictly instructed to review their data carefully before sharing to rule out any chances of errors. Also, they must discuss the output, any fluctuations, abnormalities, or confusion with the provider for clarity. It not only clarifies their condition, i.e., improvement in condition, but they also learn about the changes they must implement to better manage their condition.
Role of Providers in Remote Patient Monitoring
Monitor Regularly
This is the foremost obligation every provider must perform at all costs. Usually done by a nurse or a clinical member of the team, monitoring essential data enables them to devise better health plans for patients.
Contact to Notify
If the nurse or a clinical team member notices abnormal data or essential data outside the normal range, they must contact the patient. The unusual change could be due to the wrong usage of the remote monitoring device. Experts suggest communication between the two and a second reading to ensure the information relayed is correct.
Take Appropriate Action
Based on their clinical knowledge and the patient’s data, the providers determine their next action. They may decide to continue with the same method of changing the medications or procedure, schedule or set an appointment or refer the patient to the emergency department, if the need arises.
Educate
To educate the patient and make them feel involved, the provider must review the health information with the patient. It enhances the patient’s understanding of their chronic condition, the role of remote patient monitoring, and allows for an active role in managing their health condition.
MSI International’s Research regarding RPM
A survey conducted by MSI International, a leading global strategic market research firm, regarding the perception of the American people about Remote Patient Monitoring shows results in favor of Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM). According to the findings of the survey, most Americans consider the Remote Patient Monitoring program to be convenient, beneficial, cost-effective, and more productive than conventional methods.
The random study also shows that more than 80% of Americans voted in favor of this RPM. MSI International’s study reveals that around 50% of the population wants RPM to be incorporated into medical care.
MSI International asked American patients to share which benefits of remote patient monitoring matter most to them. Based on the results gathered, here are the percentages.
- Convenience – 43%
- Efficiency – 39%
- Control over personal health – 37%
- Greater accuracy – 36%
- Peace of mind – 36%
Benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring for Patients, Providers, and Healthcare Organizations
Remote patient monitoring and remote patient devices have greatly improved the provision of quality healthcare to the masses across the country, especially those living in far-off areas. This treatment model is cost-effective, time-efficient, and has made technology more accessible through the widespread use of smart devices, such as wearables.
Moreover, it helps in the timely detection of health issues, reduces in-person visits to healthcare facilities, and results in improved patient satisfaction. The dynamics of RPM mean continuous, connected, and more responsive healthcare.
We’ve mentioned some valuable benefits of Remote Patient Monitoring for all parties involved, including patients, providers, and healthcare organizations.
Benefits for Patients
No Physical Visits to The Clinic
Patients enrolled in the Remote Patient Monitoring program can access quality healthcare from anywhere, the comfort of their homes, or while commuting. They don’t need to make physical visits to the clinics or the doctor’s office.
No Waiting Times and Appointment Booking
Remote Patient Monitoring doesn’t involve patients waiting in long queues for their turn. Moreover, it doesn’t involve frustrating appointment booking and the stress of reaching the physician’s clinic on time.
Access to Continuous Care
Patients can now monitor their vital signs at any time with the help of easy-to-use connected devices. They get alerts when something like breathing rhythm, heartbeat, or pulse is abnormal and send the data to the doctor in case they need assistance.
Better Understanding of Their Health
Monitoring health status and vital signs daily or as recommended by the physician gives patients a better understanding of their health and progress. It also allows them to take action if something serious happens and reminds them to stick to their treatment plans.
Enhanced Patient Engagement
After getting a better understanding and visibility into their ailments, those suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or certain cancers, patients become more engaged with their own health status, which readily enhances the outcomes.
Cost Effectiveness
With no hospitalization and travel costs involved, patients can enjoy cost-effective healthcare and treatment services. RPM is known to lower costs for those visiting for regular periodic checkups or suffering from hypertension, congestive heart failure, COPD, and infectious diseases.
Benefits for Providers
Better Clarity On Patient’s Condition
With access to real-time data, doctors and physicians have a clear picture of the patient’s condition, allowing them to better tailor the healthcare services and medications based on their needs. They don’t need to waste time on excessive paperwork.
Accurate Real-Time Updates
With access to real-time data and vital health information, doctors can provide live feedback to patients, like continuing with the existing treatment plan. They don’t need to rely on their memory or make a decision by guessing.
Tailored Treatment Plans
Patterns and data collected through remote patient devices assist doctors adjust their approach based on actual results instead of an ideal scenario. They can make amendments and tailor treatment plans for better results.
Improved Patient Satisfaction
Those care seekers who use remote patient devices and avoid physical visits have shown enhanced levels of satisfaction. A survey conducted on Mayo Clinic patients in 2021 and 2022 suggests that 89% of patients benefitting from RPM have shown satisfaction.
Quick Communication
Easy-to-use dashboards shared among patients, providers, and their clinical teams facilitate seamless coordination between all involved and keep them aligned. Quick communication and accurate reporting lead to timely interventions, garner better results, and patient participation is increased.
Enhanced Income Stream
Another benefit of remote patient monitoring for healthcare providers is that they are able to enjoy a separate income stream. While they can manage, communicate, and suggest treatment plans and other changes from anywhere, their revenue generation is also enhanced.
For Healthcare Organizations, i.e., Hospitals
Apart from the benefits enjoyed by the patients and providers, healthcare organizations like hospitals and medical practices also benefit from Remote Patient Monitoring. It helps them enhance the provision of care, lower operational costs, and increase patient volume.
Some benefits for healthcare organizations are as follows.
Lower Operating Costs
The biggest advantage of technology and integration of RPM programs is that it has lowered unnecessary hospitalizations. This helps organizations cut costs, save resources, and lower the strain on staff.
Wise Usage of Time and Staff
Owing to real-time data transmission, alerts, and a centralized data system, providers and their clinical teams can focus their time and attention exactly where required.
Increased Patient Satisfaction
The ease, simplicity, and data accuracy brought by remote patient devices give patients peace of mind. They feel informed and supported. This way, their engagement and satisfaction rises and so does their loyalty.
7 Most Common Remote Monitoring Devices That Have Revolutionized Healthcare
Be it congestive heart failure, a chronic kidney disease, hypertension, blood pressure, diabetes, or any other chronic disease, remote patient monitoring depends on specialized remote patient devices to monitor their condition and transmit quick, accurate, and error-free data in real-time to the provider and their care teams.
Here are the 7 most commonly used remote patient monitoring devices that not only help providers respond to emergency events, but also allow them to precisely track each and every vital health information.
1. Glucometer
For all those suffering at the hands of diabetes, a glucometer or a continuous glucose monitor (GCM) is nothing short of a blessing. This handheld, or wearable sensor-based, remote patient monitoring device is an integral part of diabetes care as it measures blood sugar levels. Based on the readings, patients can adjust the insulin levels, and if there are any worrying signs, they can send the data to apps and dashboards for easy viewing by care providers.
In case of an unusual spike or decline in blood sugar levels, providers contact the patient to determine the cause, tackle it appropriately, provide dietary awareness, and educate them regarding smarter insulin use. These glucose monitors are easy to use, provide real-time tracking and alerts, and can be integrated with insulin pumps and telehealth apps.
2. Smart Thermometers
A Bluetooth thermometer provides a fast and accurate way to check a patient’s temperature. Not only does it provide crucial information to the provider to devise next steps, but it also helps catch infection, inflammation, or immune response changes. These smart devices monitor fever and integrate with care platforms to provide real-time insights, especially for pediatric RPM, cancer recovery, or post-surgical treatments.
A non-touch digital thermometer, to be used on the forehead, is often combined with multi-system checkers for better care oversight. A fever can point toward many conditions, like the seasonal flu, COVID-19, trauma, or any other reason.
3. ECG and Stethoscope
This combo of ECG and Stethoscope is used to measure the heart’s functioning and the sound of the heart and lungs to detect any abnormality. Patients with cardiac ailments enrolled in RPM are necessarily provided with an ECG device, as it scans for arrhythmias or coronary artery disease. The stethoscope works by amplifying the body’s internal sounds. Through these sounds, the provider can detect any abnormality with the heart, lungs, and bowel.
Nowadays, modern biometric devices are used to capture cardiac functioning and the sound of internal body organs. Patients can self-monitor their functioning while the readings are sent in real-time to the provider. Based on these readings, providers can monitor the normal functioning and, in case of any issues, adjust the treatment and medication.
4. Wearables for Activity Tracking
Be it the Apple Watch, Fitbit, or any other wearable device, these fitness and activity trackers are in big time. They help monitor patients’ vital signs like heartbeat, pulse rate, steps, sleep cycles, HR variability, and blood oxygen. These advanced tools are now considered an integral part of patients’ rehab programs and continuously monitor their lifestyle data and transmit information through the care portals.
Wearables show a complete picture of a patient’s everyday routine to the providers, enabling them to understand the effect of these activities on their health. According to a study published in the IEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics, wearables powered by 5G and deep learning can track changes with around 97% accuracy. Lastly, the advent of technology has made wearables critical clinical-grade telemonitoring devices, and they aren’t just limited to fitness tracking.
5. Pulse Oximeters
Another remote patient monitoring device that became famous during and after the COVID-19 pandemic is the pulse oximeter. These finger-clip sensors are non-invasive and mostly attached to the fingers – sometimes the earlobe as well – to measure the amount of oxygen circulating in red blood cells and also the pulse rate.
These oximeters are used for patients suffering from COPD, asthma, sleep apnea, and also for monitoring COVID-19-related complications. These modern devices can easily be synced with apps and alert monitors in case oxygen levels drop below a threshold. They allow the providers and their care team to view exactly what’s going on and whether they should continue with the same treatment and dosage or adjust based on the patient’s condition.
6. Respiratory Monitoring Devices
RMDs or Respiratory Monitoring Devices, like connected spirometers, chest-worn sensors, and breath analyzers, are an essential part of remote patient monitoring devices. These devices became immensely popular in the post-COVID era for COPD programs, pediatric asthma management, to track respiratory data, carbon dioxide levels, and liver or lung functioning.
These tools help physicians and care teams detect declining signs and any symptoms that trigger quick action. People suffering from sleep problems, asthma, allergies, and those on oxygen therapy are recommended these tools as they help monitor breathing rate and volume, nocturnal desaturation or apnea, and much more.
7. Smart Weight Scales
Smart weight scales, integrated with Bluetooth technology, are easy to use and one of the most commonly used remote patient devices. With the help of these tools, patients can track weight changes and send them to the provider to see if everything is alright or if there are signs of deterioration, based on which they’ll interfere. For instance, these smart scales come in handy for CHF patients when there’s a need to monitor every small change as a result of water retention or BMI.
In such scenarios, the provider must closely monitor any fluctuations as weight gain is a clear sign of worsening CHF. Not to forget, these scales enable self-management for individuals suffering from obesity. We all know obesity is the main risk factor for issues like cardiac diseases, heart strokes, type 2 diabetes, specific types of cancer, and much more. So, being proactive with weight management and closely monitoring body mass and muscle composition play a vital role in prolonging a healthy and active lifestyle.
Differences Between Remote Patient Monitoring and Telehealth
If you ask a layman about the difference between Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) and Telehealth, they may reply that the two are identical or at least appear to be. Although they may seem alike, they are different from each other.
Definition of RPM by the American Medical Association (AMA)
According to the American Medical Association, “Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is a digital health solution that captures and records patient physiologic data outside of a traditional health care environment.”
Definition of Telehealth by the American Medical Association (AMA)
AMA defines Telehealth as “A service that connects patients to vital healthcare services through videoconferencing, remote monitoring, electronic consults, and wireless communications. By increasing access to physicians and specialists, telehealth helps ensure patients receive the right care, at the right place, and at the right time.”
A report by Insider Intelligence tells us that by 2025, more than 26% of the population, or around 71 million patients across the US, will benefit from Remote Patient Monitoring tools. On the other hand, a 2022 telehealth study by mhealthintelligence reports, suggests that around 40% of care was virtual and that telehealth is benefitting a large majority of Americans.
Different Between RPM and Telehealth
Many people out there may not differentiate between Remote Patient Monitoring and Telehealth/Virtual Care.
| Topic | Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) | Telehealth |
| What it is | Doctors keep track of your health from home using devices like a sugar checker or blood pressure machine. | You talk to your doctor through a video call, phone, or chat instead of going to the clinic. |
| Main Purpose | To keep an eye on your health every day and catch problems early. | To get medical advice, prescriptions, or check-ups without leaving home. |
| How it works | The device sends your health readings straight to your doctor. | You and your doctor talk live on a screen or phone. |
| Best for | People with long-term health issues like diabetes or heart problems who need regular watching. | Anyone who needs to see or talk to a doctor quickly without visiting in person. |
| Interaction Level | Doctor checks your readings in the background and calls if something is wrong. | Doctor talks with you directly during the call. |
| Convenience | You’re looked after every day without stepping outside. | You save time and avoid travel or waiting rooms. |
What Remote Patient Monitoring Services Are Billable?
Remote Patient Monitoring consists of Remote Physiological Monitoring and Remote Therapeutic Monitoring. Before moving into the policy details and reimbursements against CPT codes for RPM, let’s tell you a bit about these two in short.
Remote Physiologic Monitoring
Analyzing a patient’s physiological metrics using non-face-to-face monitoring is called remote physiologic monitoring. Some common examples of these metrics are blood pressure, blood sugar, oxygen saturation, weight gain, or weight loss.
Remote Therapeutic Monitoring
Remote therapeutic monitoring involves non-physiological data related to a therapeutic treatment, i.e., the musculoskeletal or respiratory system. Remote Therapeutic Monitoring also involves ensuring medication compliance and pain management. The transmission of data is done using a connected medical device.
Note: Although both these services are transmitted electronically, only the latter allows the patient to self-report with the help of a connected device.
Medicare
Medicare reimburses for both these services.
RPM requirements are as follows:
- Unlike RTM, remote physiological monitoring requires an established patient relationship.
- Remote physiologic monitoring involves the monitoring of an acute or chronic condition.
- Remote physiologic monitoring data must be gathered for a minimum of 16 out of 30 days. It is important to note that data gathering for 16 days doesn’t apply to treatment codes such as 98980, 98981, 99457, and 99458.
- Multiple practitioners cannot bill for RPM, and only one provider is allowed to send a RPM claim for a patient spanning across 30 days.
- Billing both Remote physiologic monitoring and remote therapeutic monitoring isn’t allowed.
- Monitoring should be medically
- Monitoring should be both medically necessary and clinically justified.
- You can bill either Remote Physiologic Monitoring (RPM) or Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM) along with certain care management services for the same patient, but not both at the same time. These services include Chronic Care Management (CCM), Transitional Care Management (TCM), Behavioral Health Integration (BHI), Principal Care Management (PCM), and Chronic Pain Management (CPM). Just remember, the time and effort you spend can only be counted once, not double.
- When it comes to the global period of surgery, healthcare providers can bill both remote physiologic monitoring and remote therapeutic monitoring even if they aren’t receiving global service payment.
- When the RPM is furnished, providers must get patient consent on a consent form.
- Providers must obtain patient consent before providing RPM services.
- Providers must rely on trustworthy electronic tools to gather physiologic data, which is auto uploaded to a secure location. Ensure that the data location is available to the billing practitioner for easy analysis and interpretation.
- The device used to gather and share patient data must qualify as a medical device under FDA rules.
- The services could be delivered by the physician or their care team, under the supervision of the billing practitioner.
Billing Codes for RPM Services
Below is the table explaining specific CPT and HCPCS codes used to bill for Remote Patient Monitoring services.
| CPT/HCPCS code | Description | Time | Permanent coverage for telehealth |
| 99091 | Monthly review of data | 30 min | No |
| 99453 | RPM device set up | N/A | No |
| 99454 | Monthly review of RPM data | 16 or more days over a 30-day period | No |
| 99457 | Patient-provider communication related to RPM data | 20 min | No |
| 99458 | Patient-provider communication related to RPM data | Additional 20 min | No |
| 98975 | RTM device set up and patient education | N/A | No |
| 98976 | RTM monitoring, respiratory | 16 or more days over a 30-day period | No |
| 98977 | RTM monitoring, musculoskeletal | 16 days or more over a 30-day period | No |
| 98980 | Patient-provider communication related to the therapeutic device | 20 min | No |
| 98981 | Additional time required for 98975-98978 or 90980 | Additional 20 min | No |
Medicaid
For Medicaid, every state has different billing policies that must be followed to get complete and timely reimbursement. For information on Medicaid billing and reimbursement policies for RPM, you can visit the Center for Connected Health Policy (CCHP).
Private/Commercial Payors
Verify if the patient is covered by a private insurance company such as Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, or Delta. If yes, contact the commercial payor regarding information on their billing and reimbursement policies. Follow CCHP’s policy finder for useful tips regarding commercial payor policies.
Safety Net Providers
It is important to note that services related to Remote Patient Monitoring are billable and can be reimbursed amicably. Moreover, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) are entitled to receive separate reimbursements.
The requirements for payments include:
- An established relationship with the patient
- Patient consent in the form of a consent form upon the provision of RPM
- Services to be offered must be medically necessary and reasonable
- Services must be repeated
Final Words
Simply put, Remote Patient Monitoring is monitoring or managing care from anywhere; away from clinical settings. RPM plays a vital role for patients suffering from chronic conditions. This program enhances the quality of their life and bestows them with the much-needed comfort and peace of mind. Remote Patient Devices are at the center of the RPM program, and it won’t be effective without these easy-to-use gadgets used to send vital sign alerts to providers.
Owing to Remote Patient Devices, LLC’s coordinated care outside the clinical settings, patients enjoy a healthy lifestyle and experience a quick recovery from chronic conditions. Whether you’re suffering from diabetes, chronic kidney disease, congestive heart failure, asthma, or respiratory problems, our high-tech devices integrated with easy-to-use software and data collection ability help providers get real-time data and make better decisions regarding patients’ treatment or medication.
Want to know more about tech-driven Remote Patient Devices like Blood Pressure Devices, Glucometers, or Smart Wearables enabled with the latest innovation? Get in touch and see how we’re reinventing the medical field for both patients and healthcare providers.
