As rural hospitals close and providers leave, finding ways for medical staff to remotely monitor patients, so the patients can recover comfortably at home, is becoming more important.
The West Virginia Department of Health is looking for ideas and best practices for using remote patient monitoring devices to help patients manage chronic conditions in their homes and communities. This is part of the Rural Health Transformation Program.
“West Virginia faces unique health care challenges because of our rural geography, aging population and high rates of chronic disease,” Secretary of Health Dr. Arvin Singh said in a press release. “We are looking for innovative solutions that can help patients receive high-quality care where they live, reduce unnecessary hospitalizations and improve health outcomes across the state.”
The agency hopes to learn about expanding technology-enabled care and identifying potential partners capable of supporting patients, providers and health care systems. It seeks information on managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, particularly in rural and underserved areas where access to care remains a challenge.
The department is particularly interested in solutions that can address barriers commonly faced in rural communities, including limited broadband access, transportation challenges and provider shortages.
“Technology is creating new opportunities to connect patients and providers in ways that were not possible just a few years ago,” Singh said. “By gathering input from health care leaders, technology companies and innovators, we can build a sustainable digital health strategy that strengthens care delivery, supports health care providers, and improves quality of life for West Virginians.”
Eligible organizations may respond through the State of West Virginia’s procurement and grants management system at wvOASIS.gov.
