Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) services have taken a significant step forward in New York State as of January 1, 2025. New York State Medicaid has expanded its coverage to include RPM services provided by clinical staff, offering a substantial benefit to New York citizens.
Under the new guidelines, NYS Medicaid will now reimburse for RPM services under Current Procedural Terminology code 99457. This code specifically relates to remote physiologic monitoring treatment management services, where clinical staff, physicians, or qualified healthcare professionals engage in interactive communication with patients or caregivers on a monthly basis. The reimbursement rate for CPT code 99457 is set at $41.80 per 30-day period.
One of the key changes with this expansion is the authorization for clinical staff, such as pharmacists and registered dietitians, to deliver RPM services under the direction of a physician or qualified healthcare professional. However, these services must be ordered by a physician or another qualified healthcare professional.
Alexandria Foley, RN, Vice President of Nursing and Care Delivery at Brook Health, a healthcare organization specializing in RPM services, highlighted the value of RPM in patient care. She emphasized that the expansion of Medicaid coverage for RPM signifies the state’s recognition of the importance of these services in meeting the healthcare needs of New York residents. By adopting the latest in healthcare information technology, New York is taking a proactive approach to improving patient outcomes.
Brook Health utilizes a combination of remote clinical teams and AI to deliver comprehensive care between visits, revolutionizing the way healthcare is delivered. This approach focuses on proactive, ever-present care, shifting from reactive check-ups to continuous support for patients. The integration of intelligent data analysis with personalized support from health specialists ensures better and faster care for patients, all from the comfort of their homes.
The organization’s AI-powered platform is particularly beneficial for individuals living with chronic conditions such as heart failure, diabetes, and hypertension. By collecting health data from various devices and analyzing it in real-time, Brook Health provides timely insights and personalized recommendations to enhance patient engagement and adherence to care plans. The care team, consisting of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, registered dieticians, and health coaches, works closely with patients to monitor their health metrics and provide ongoing clinical oversight.
Early intervention is a key focus of Brook Health’s approach to RPM. By analyzing patient data and symptoms in real-time, the care team can identify potential health issues and intervene promptly when necessary. This proactive approach not only improves patient outcomes but also reduces the need for emergency services and costly interventions.
The expansion of reimbursement for RPM services in New York State has the potential to significantly impact patient care and outcomes. By recognizing the value of RPM technology and patient monitoring, providers can now be compensated for their time spent delivering these essential services. While there may be challenges to address, such as costs and patient reach, the overall expansion of RPM services is expected to increase patient engagement and enable clinical staff to offer more comprehensive care.
In conclusion, the integration of RPM services into New York State Medicaid coverage represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery. By leveraging technology and clinical expertise, providers can deliver personalized care and support to patients, ultimately improving outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.