Examining a Remote Patient Monitoring Program with Medicaid Patients Managing Diabetes and Hypertension: A Qualitative Study

Consistent and effective self-management of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN) remains a challenge for many patients, who face barriers such as limited healthcare access, poor diet, and insufficient exercise. Remote patient monitoring (RPM) allows patients with specific chronic conditions to monitor and report their healthcare data through a digital platform. However, there is limited research on Medicaid patients' experiences using RPM. The purpose of this study was to describe patients' experiences managing their DM and HTN using RPM. Semi-structured longitudinal interviews were conducted with seventeen participants enrolled in a RPM program. Thematic analysis of interviews revealed three main themes: program enrollment experiences, utilizing RPM, and factors impacting disease management. Patients reported that their overall experience utilizing RPM was positive, and RPM helped to overcome challenges such as unhealthy eating and infrequent monitoring of their blood sugars and/or blood pressures. Results suggest that RPM programs could be an effective strategy for supporting the management of DM and HTN. Limitations include small sample size and variability in Medicaid program design by states in U.S. Clinical Trials.gov NCT: NCT05555095 https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05555095.