Evaluation of an Organizational Model for Remote Monitoring of Pacemaker and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Recipients

After a number of studies which assessed technical reliability and clinical implications of remote monitoring systems, a further step should approach the issue of how remote monitoring can be implemented as a part of routine activities of a cardiology outpatient clinic. A clear definition of roles and workflow to timely manage information and properly react to adverse events is required. The HomeGuide Registry proposes an organizational model specifying roles and procedures for outpatient clinics using a specific remote monitoring system in routine follow-up. The HomeGuide model is essentially based on an interaction between one or more allied professionals (expert and trained nurses or technicians) and a responsible physician. The main objective of the HomeGuide Registry is to evaluate:

• Clinical efficiency of remote patient management;
• Health service resources required by a remote patient management.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients implanted with a BIOTRONIK pacemaker or ICD with Home Monitoring (HM) technology
• Ability to utilize the HM system throughout the study
• Ability to give informed consent
• Ability to return for regular follow-ups for two years

Exclusion criteria

• Patients who do not fulfill all inclusion criteria