Remote Monitoring for Heart Failure Management at Home

Early telemonitoring of weights and symptoms did not decrease heart failure hospitalizations but helped identify steps toward effective monitoring programs. A signal that is accurate and actionable with response kinetics for early re-assessment is required for the treatment of patients at high risk, while signal specifications differ for surveillance of low-risk patients. Tracking of congestion with cardiac filling pressures or lung water content has shown most impact to decrease hospitalizations, while multiparameter scores from implanted rhythm devices have identified patients at increased risk. Algorithms require better personalization of signal thresholds and interventions. The COVID-19 epidemic accelerated transition to remote care away from clinics, preparing for new digital health care platforms to accommodate multiple technologies and empower patients. Addressing inequities will require bridging the digital divide and the deep gap in access to HF care teams, who will not be replaced by technology but by care teams who can embrace it. [Display omitted] •Remote monitoring coupled with a system of care that engages, informs, and empowers patients is essential for effective home management of HF to control symptoms, avoid hospitalization, and ameliorate the patient’s perception of illness.•Effective remote monitoring requires an accurate, reliable signal that is actionable through personalized algorithms.•Evolving digital health care must address the digital divide and deep gaps in access to HF management.