Akron-area patients benefit from in-home medicial monitoring

The Akron Beacon Journal showcases a new in-home monitoring system offered by the Visiting Nurse Service (VNS). (Source: "Monitors save trips to doctor," Jan. 6, 2008.) The system enables chronically ill patients to check vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse-oxygen levels, weight and blood sugar. The results are then automatically sent by phone to VNS, where a nurse monitors the vital signs and calls the patient to follow up.

Dr. Tim Stover, Akron General Medical Center's director of care management, said there are ''definite advantages'' to in-home monitoring, especially for patients who have difficulty getting to the doctor. Patients with chronic conditions can find themselves in the emergency room 14 or 15 times a year, but with home monitoring some of these visits can be prevented.