Oncology Patients' Perspectives on Remote Patient Monitoring for COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Infectious Diseases
• Digital Health

Background:

• Oncology patients face heightened risks from COVID-19, necessitating early detection of clinical deterioration.
• Remote patient monitoring programs (RPMPs) were implemented to manage COVID-19 patients, particularly those with cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the patient perspectives on a COVID-19 remote patient monitoring program at a National Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Main Methods:

• Patients testing positive for COVID-19 were enrolled and received daily electronic symptom assessments.
• A subset of high-risk patients received pulse oximeters for remote monitoring.
• A patient engagement survey evaluated experiences with digital monitoring post-program completion.

Main Results:

• A 52% response rate (257/491) was achieved for the patient engagement survey.
• The program demonstrated a high net promoter score (85%) and positive patient feedback.
• Key perceived values included clinical security, connection to the healthcare team, and patient empowerment in symptom management.

Conclusions:

• Remote patient monitoring programs are highly valued by oncology patients during COVID-19 infection.
• Reimbursement policies for RPMPs should be considered to support vulnerable patients at home and reduce acute care utilization.