Retrospective analysis of telemonitoring in Wollondilly, Australia

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyse early findings from telemonitoring data for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, residing in Wollondilly Shire, New South Wales, Australia. The Shire has 19 small scattered and isolated rural communities, which experience undersupply of healthcare providers. Findings are to be used for further research to support wider implementation of telemonitoring by general practitioners (GPs). Design/methodology/approach: Local patients with multiple chronic obstructive pulmonary disease hospital admissions were allocated home telemonitoring equipment, entering readings according to their GP management plan. Demographic, biometric and self-assessment readings were retrospectively collected, from July 2015 to April 2016. Findings: Data for 18 patients aged 44-87, with equal gender representation was analysed. There was a total of 24,545 data points from 2,932 readings. Over half showed high clinical risk; 93 occasions required GP escalation, 23 per cent for respiratory conditions, in 14 patients. Nine were hospitalised, 51 per cent for respiratory conditions. Practical implications: Home telemonitoring of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was found to be a promising patient management approach, providing accurate, reliable health indicators. Its use empowered patients to improve symptom control and health outcomes. Originality/value: Experience in Australian general practice with telemonitoring is limited. High protocol compliance occurred, risk indicators were obtained and the value of home telemonitoring was confirmed.