In a recent Shawnee County Commission Work Session, officials discussed the significant impact of a health monitoring program aimed at improving patient care and reducing healthcare costs. The program utilizes advanced technology to monitor high-risk patients, particularly those with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Currently, 11 individuals are enrolled in the program, which allows pharmacists to track patients' health metrics in real time. This proactive approach has led to increased oversight, enabling healthcare providers to address potential issues before they escalate into serious health events. For instance, pharmacists reached out to patients 10 times regarding concerning blood pressure readings, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in early intervention.

Financially, the program has shown promising results, boasting a return on investment (ROI) of 7.6 to 1. The county invested $47,008 in the initiative, which has already yielded savings of $314,027. These savings stem from discontinuing unnecessary medications and improving patient compliance, ultimately reducing the need for more costly healthcare services like emergency room visits.

Commissioners acknowledged the importance of the program in managing healthcare costs, particularly for a small group of individuals with high medical expenses. The data collected through this initiative not only highlights immediate savings but also suggests potential long-term benefits by preventing serious health complications.

As the county continues to evaluate the program's success, officials emphasized the need for ongoing support and investment in health monitoring technologies. This initiative not only aims to enhance patient outcomes but also aligns with broader community goals of improving public health and managing healthcare expenditures effectively.