Hawke’s Bay adopts remote monitoring model for heart failure patients

Individuals are monitored from home using hospital-supplied kits.

A new digital model of care for heart failure patients is being implemented in Hawke’s Bay, according to New Zealand Health Minister Simeon Brown.

Under the model, patients are monitored from home using hospital-supplied kits that include a tablet, scales, a blood pressure cuff, and a pulse oximeter.

In addition, patients can connect with clinicians through regular video consultations.

The remote patient monitoring pathway targets individuals with reduced ejection fraction—a condition in which the heart fails to pump blood effectively.

A key aspect of managing this condition is medication titration, which involves gradually adjusting drug dosages based on patient response.

“Traditionally, this requires frequent in-person appointments and can take many months,” Brown said.

“This new approach means patients can be safely monitored and have their medications adjusted from home,” he added.