HHS is calling for increased oversight for remote patient monitoring as its use within Medicare has increased in recent years.
A report from HHS' Office of Inspector General, released on Sept. 24, highlights that between 2019 and 2022, the adoption of remote patient monitoring among Medicare enrollees increased significantly. However, the report raises concerns, revealing that nearly 43% of those using remote patient monitoring did not receive all three essential components of the service, calling into question the effectiveness of its implementation.
Both the OIG and CMS have voiced apprehensions regarding potential fraudulent activities associated with remote patient monitoring practices. As telehealth continues to evolve, these agencies are closely examining the deployment of remote patient monitoring technologies to ensure adherence to established guidelines, thereby guaranteeing that patients reap the intended benefits.
In response to these concerns, the OIG has proposed several recommendations for CMS to heighten oversight of remote patient monitoring within Medicare. These include:
- Implementing additional safeguards to ensure that remote patient monitoring services are utilized and billed appropriately.
- Mandating that remote patient monitoring services be ordered, with claims and encounter data including information about the ordering provider.
- Developing methods to accurately identify which health data are being monitored through remote patient monitoring.
- Conducting educational initiatives for providers focused on the proper billing practices for remote patient monitoring services.
- Identifying and monitoring companies that submit bills for remote patient monitoring, aiming to increase accountability and compliance within the industry.