There’s no shortage of remote patient monitoring (RPM) platforms out there. On paper, many of them promise the same things: connected devices, dashboards, and a raft of shiny new features. But the challenge isn’t finding a platform — it’s finding the one that actually works for your patients, your clinicians, and the way you deliver care.
The truth is, one size doesn’t fit all and something that’s a ‘nice to have’ for one service could be a deal breaker for another. That’s why we’ve put together our list of the eight things to look for when choosing remote patient monitoring software, to help guide you through the noise and uncover what you really need from your RPM platform.
- Does it work for the clinical areas you want to monitor?
Not all RPM platforms are built the same. Some are laser-focused on one condition or clinical area, like diabetes or respiratory, while others offer the flexibility to monitor a wide range of pathways within the same app. Both approaches have their pros and cons, so it comes down to what you need now and what you’re likely to need in the future.
For larger procurements, flexibility may be vital. For standalone specialisms, a more niche product could be the better fit. The key is to think about outcomes, use cases, and how easily your specific pathways could run on that technology. Choose the platform that supports the way you deliver care, not the other way around.
- Is it easy for patients and clinicians to use?
We have a saying here at Clinitouch that overcomplicated means underused, so we value the importance of simplicity to help boost adoption. Sure, a long list of features sounds great in theory, but there’s usually a tipping point when feature bloat starts to hinder usability. Make a clear list of what’s essential versus what’s just nice to have and be careful to not get distracted by shiny extras that sound cool but don’t actually help your patients or clinicians. Focus on the features that make everyday use easier and outcomes better, not the ones that just look flashy.
- Does it integrate with existing systems?
Ah, integration and interoperability. At the heart of this question is normally the fear of having yet another separate system with siloed information and data, which makes total sense. Remote patient monitoring tools should work with your existing IT infrastructure rather than against it, but it’s crucial for you to think about how you need this to work. Seamless data flow, eliminating duplication and reducing errors are just some of the things to consider. Be cautious of “we can integrate” without knowing that they can do it in the way you actually need.
- Is your patient data safe and compliant?
Patient data is sensitive and security is non-negotiable. The best RPM platforms are secure by design, built with safety at the heart from day one rather than tacked on later. Look for platforms that follow internationally recognised data-sharing standards and meet compliance requirements such as DTAC in the NHS. There should also be clear processes for handling data and you should be able to ask vendors for proof that they’re following them.
- Can it grow with you?
The ‘start small and grow’ approach is often a sensible move, so you need a platform that can grow with you without any major technical upheaval. Your needs now may not be the same as your needs in 12 months, whether that’s more patients, more pathways or new integrations. Look for RPM vendors that have done this before, allowing customers to land and expand their services. After all, flexibility and a willingness to grow the project together is what turns an RPM pilot into a long-term, sustainable programme.
- Does it have proven outcomes and evidence?
When it comes to remote patient monitoring, results matter more than polished sales and marketing messaging. A platform might promise better engagement or faster interventions, but what does the evidence say? Look for companies who can show real-world outcomes — improved patient adherence, reduced hospital visits, or measurable clinical improvements. Case studies, published research, or validated pilot results all help you separate platforms that sound good on paper from those that actually deliver.
- Does it offer more than just monitoring?
What if your RPM software could do more than just collect data and show it on a dashboard? The best platforms go beyond data, helping you see the full picture of a patient’s health. We’re talking education that encourages self-management, structured programmes patients can follow easily, and tools that turn data into meaningful insights quickly and clearly.
This approach doesn’t just help patients, it helps clinicians too, streamlining workflows and making it easier to deliver targeted, proactive care.
- Does it have any hidden extras?
Budgets matter, so whilst some RPM platforms may look affordable at first glance, look out for add-ons and extras that can quickly push costs up. Everything from devices and initial set-up fees, to training, implementation and maintenance can be billed separately, so it’s important to know what you’re paying for, as well as how much. The simple solution? Ask. Ask for a full breakdown of what’s included, what costs extra, and whether there are any limits on patients, devices, or data usage - and on the flip side, don’t forget to ask about discounts for volume usage too!
Finding the right RPM platform isn’t about chasing the flashiest features or the biggest brand. It’s about picking a tool that fits your patients, your clinicians, and the way you deliver care. Focus on evidence, usability, integration, and support, and you’ll find a platform that actually makes a difference.
Interested in exploring whether Clinitouch is the perfect fit for you? Get in touch to request a demo today.
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