Cellular vs Bluetooth: Device Selection for Remote Patient Monitoring
The success of a remote patient monitoring (RPM) program program lies in the ability to meaningfully engage your patients in their care programs through the use of connected devices. The devices your program will utilize depends on the specific biometric readings that provide the most value to your care team. That leaves you with determining which connectivity type is best suited for your patient population: Bluetooth or Cellular?
When looking at the options, both Bluetooth and Cellular have clear advantages and in today’s blog we’re going to share some key elements to consider when evaluating which to use for your patient population.
Cellular Device Benefits for RPM
Easy to Setup: While Cellular devices require a SIM card and a data plan, they are not a high-tech tool and do not require any connection setup beyond initialization. This makes it ideal for older patients or those who have little experience with technology.
Reliable Connectivity: Cellular devices use a cellular network to send and receive data, which provides a more reliable connection compared to Bluetooth devices, which can be impacted by interference from other devices.
Better Data Transfer: Cellular devices can transfer data faster and in larger quantities compared to Bluetooth devices, making it easier for healthcare providers to receive and analyze the data.
Wider Coverage: Cellular devices can transmit data from anywhere with cellular service, which provides wider coverage compared to Bluetooth devices.
Cellular Device Drawbacks for RPM
Cost: Cellular devices tend to be more expensive compared to Bluetooth devices and require an ongoing data plan to support them.
Coverage: Cellular RPM devices are limited to their provider’s cellular service area; this may be an issue for patients who live in rural areas. In some cases, a patient may have excellent Wi-Fi coverage with poor cellular – in which case they would be better suited to use a Bluetooth device.
Bluetooth Device Benefits for RPM
Cost: Bluetooth devices tend to be less expensive compared to cellular devices. As such they can be a more attractive option at a lower price point.
No Data Plan Required: Bluetooth devices do not require a data plan, making them more cost-effective compared to cellular devices.
Bluetooth Device Drawbacks for RPM
Limited Range: Bluetooth devices have a limited range, which can make it difficult to transmit data from some locations.
Interference: Bluetooth devices can be impacted by interference from other Bluetooth devices, which can impact the reliability of the connection.
Limited Data Transfer: Bluetooth devices can only transfer small amounts of data at a time, which can make it difficult for healthcare providers to receive and analyze the data in a timely manner.
Complex Setup: Bluetooth devices can be more difficult to set up for patients who are not tech-savvy making it a large deterrent. The process involves pairing your Bluetooth devices with a smartphone or tablet and ensuring they remain connected.
In conclusion, both cellular and Bluetooth devices have their own unique benefits and drawbacks for RPM. The choice between the two will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the patient and the healthcare provider. Factors such as cost, coverage, reliability, and data transfer capabilities should be considered when choosing between cellular and Bluetooth devices for RPM.
If your organization is considering the benefits RPM can bring and looking for a turnkey solution to get you up and running, contact Mozzaz today for a custom consultation or demo!
