Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing public health concern that affects more than 1 in 7 U.S. adults. Alarmingly, as many as 9 in 10 adults with CKD are unaware they have the disease, as early stages often present no symptoms. Managing chronic kidney disease requires strict adherence to treatment plans, regular symptom tracking, dietary modifications, medication compliance, and diligent control of blood pressure and glucose levels.
Recent studies highlight the benefits of remote patient monitoring (RPM) as a supportive tool for both patients and healthcare providers in managing chronic kidney disease. This article delves into the latest research on monitoring kidney disease with RPM.
Managing Chronic Kidney Disease with Multimorbidity
Managing chronic kidney disease is especially difficult when other chronic conditions are present. Patients may have diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, which can contribute to CKD but also worsen each other in a dangerous cycle. According to the American Kidney Fund, 1 in 3 adults with diabetes and 1 in 5 with high blood pressure also have kidney disease. These conditions not only contribute to CKD Uncontrolled diabetes can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, while failing kidneys make it harder to manage blood sugar and blood pressure
Blood Pressure Control
High blood pressure is a leading cause and consequence of CKD. Therefore, a big part of managing chronic kidney disease is controlling blood pressure. High blood pressure constricts and narrows blood vessels, which damages the kidneys. It reduces their ability to filter waste effectively.
Maintaining blood pressure at or below goal can help to protect the kidneys and slow CKD progression. That is why working with a physician on a treatment plan to meet blood pressure goals is vital. The CDC recommends a blood pressure goal of less than 130/80 mmHg for people with kidney disease. Lifestyle changes like sodium reduction, smoking cessation, physical activity, and medication adherence play a central role, along with regular at-home monitoring.
Blood Glucose Control
The A1C test provides a 3-month average of blood glucose levels and is an indicator of diabetes management. This differs from regular blood glucose measurements taken at home. The ADA generally recommends an A1C target of below 7% to reduce complications.
Daily blood glucose control is vital for managing chronic kidney disease. Frequent glucose monitoring can help guide food, activity, and medication treatment plans. Good glucose control also reduces kidney strain and supports overall kidney function.
Remote Patient Monitoring and Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
Remote patient monitoring allows clinicians to track patients’ blood pressure, blood glucose, and weight from home. RPM devices, like blood pressure monitors, glucometers, and weight scales collect and transmit patient data directly to healthcare teams. This frequent data gives better insight compared to office visits alone. When health care teams are tracking a patient’s daily readings, it allows faster intervention when needed.
A 6-month study of 108 chronic kidney disease patients using an RPM platform found that 97% would recommend it, 93% found it easy to use, and 82% preferred RPM to clinic visits. Patients also reported saving 30-120 minutes per visit, feeling more involved in their care.
In-Home Dialysis in Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
For patients in advanced stages of CKD requiring dialysis, home-based treatments have become increasingly viable. Traditionally, dialysis necessitated frequent clinic visits, but home dialysis offers greater convenience and autonomy. A 2024 study of over 200 Spanish dialysis patients using RPM for automated peritoneal dialysis demonstrated lower mortality rates and fewer technique failures compared to a control group. The RPM system allowed nephrologists to monitor treatment data and make remote prescription adjustments .
Another systematic review of 42 studies and over 5,000 patients assessed various RPM platforms, including telehealth services, mobile apps, and patient portals. Outcomes assessed included treatment adherence, quality of life, healthcare costs, and utilization. The majority of evidence supports RPM’s advantages for peritoneal dialysis patients, though more research is needed on its role in early CKD detection and progression prevention.
Understanding Remote Monitoring for Managing Chronic Kidney Disease
Remote patient monitoring enables earlier interventions by healthcare teams. As technology advances, RPM is expected to become more customizable, intuitive, and seamlessly integrated into chronic disease care. This evolution will support patients throughout their journey, from early-stage CKD to end-stage kidney failure, enhancing care through digital health tools.
Remote patient monitoring and chronic care management offer preventive care for chronic kidney disease and other chronic care conditions. To learn how Tenovi can enhance patient outcomes, drive revenue growth, and achieve improved patient care, book your free demo and consultation today.
