How Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Helps Veterans Manage Chronic Conditions
As a retired Captain in the United States Public Health Service and Air Force Critical Care Trauma Nurse veteran who served in Afghanistan, I’ve seen firsthand the unique healthcare challenges that veterans face. From chronic physical conditions to the mental health impacts of service, managing long-term health requires consistent care and attention. That’s where Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) comes in—an innovative solution that can revolutionize how veterans, especially those in rural or underserved areas, manage chronic health conditions.
Throughout my military career, I encountered many service members who, after returning home, found it difficult to access regular healthcare services. For veterans with conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or chronic pain, frequent hospital visits can be a logistical nightmare, particularly for those living far from VA hospitals or other healthcare facilities. The good news is that RPM has the potential to close this gap by allowing veterans to receive continuous care from the comfort of their homes.
RPM for Veterans: Accessible and Consistent Care
Remote Patient Monitoring involves using technology—such as wearable devices, blood pressure cuffs, and glucose monitors—that collects real-time data about a patient's health. This data is then transmitted to healthcare providers who can track the patient’s condition, adjust treatment plans, and intervene if necessary, without requiring the patient to visit the clinic.
For veterans, this type of care can be a game-changer. Many veterans live in rural areas where access to healthcare can be limited. With RPM, geography is no longer a barrier. It allows veterans to maintain a connection with their healthcare team, ensuring that their conditions are monitored regularly. In cases of chronic disease management, such continuous care can prevent the progression of illnesses and reduce the need for emergency interventions or hospitalizations.
Managing Chronic Conditions: A Lifeline for Veterans
Many veterans struggle with chronic conditions stemming from their time in service—whether it’s from the physical demands of their military duties or the mental stress they endured. Conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), high blood pressure, and diabetes are prevalent in the veteran population. RPM enables veterans to manage these conditions more effectively by providing consistent feedback on their health and early warnings if something is wrong.
For instance, a veteran managing diabetes can use RPM devices to track their glucose levels in real time. This immediate access to data allows healthcare providers to adjust medications quickly and helps the veteran avoid complications like hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Similarly, RPM can track blood pressure for veterans with hypertension, helping healthcare providers intervene before the condition worsens.
The Way Forward: Combining Technology and Compassion
As a veteran and healthcare professional, I see immense value in RPM for my fellow veterans. It bridges the gap between healthcare providers and patients, offering a lifeline to those who may otherwise be isolated from necessary care. More importantly, RPM combines cutting-edge technology with a compassionate approach to healthcare—a combination that is particularly vital for those who have given so much in service to their country.
Valor RPM is committed to delivering this level of care to veterans and ensuring they receive the monitoring, support, and intervention they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Remote Patient Monitoring isn’t just about technology—it’s about improving the lives of veterans by making healthcare accessible, proactive, and personalized.
Christine Collins. MA, BS, BSN, RN | Director, Clinical Operations | Christine Collins, MA, BS, BSN, RN, is the Director of Clinical Operations at Valor Healthcare, where she leads critical care and nursing operations with a focus on excellence in patient outcomes. A retired U.S. Air Force captain, she served as an RN in Afghanistan, gaining invaluable experience in trauma and critical care settings. Her distinguished military career includes leadership roles such as Chief of National Federal Patient Movement and Critical Care Air Transport and Senior Executive Assistant to the U.S. Surgeon General. Christine has also contributed to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, where she was responsible for overseeing clinical health services. In addition to her military and government service, Christine has worked in prominent healthcare organizations, including Mayo Clinic, specializing in intensive care and step-down units. Her expertise spans critical care nursing, healthcare operations, and strategic leadership in both military and civilian environments. With a passion for improving healthcare systems, Christine has successfully navigated complex healthcare challenges, ensuring efficient and high-quality care for patients. Her strong leadership, combined with her clinical acumen, continues to impact the field of healthcare significantly.