S99 Implementation of a Remote Monitoring Program for Individuals With Acute Pancreatitis

Introduction: Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is designed to enhance surveillance of clinical events and has been shown to decrease hospital length of stay, reduce hospital readmissions, and improve patient satisfaction for several gastrointestinal conditions. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility and usability of an RPM program for acute pancreatitis. Methods: A pancreatitis-specific RPM program was launched in October 2024. Patients hospitalized for at least 3 days with acute pancreatitis and seen by a Gastroenterology team were offered enrollment before or within 5 days of discharge. Bluetooth-enabled devices and a Wi-Fi tablet for patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were shipped to the patient. PROs are self-reported measures of symptoms and health status. Daily vitals and weekly PROs were uploaded to electronic health records and monitored by a virtual nursing team. Program completion was defined as active enrollment and graduation after at least 60 days. Graduation criteria included 60 days of monitoring and no need for post-surgical monitoring after pancreatectomy. RPM was extended in 1 case at the patient’s request due to ongoing symptoms. Symptoms were assessed at intake, weekly, and during alerts. Results: Of 20 patients offered RPM, 19 agreed; 1 declined due to literacy/language barriers. Of those enrolled in the program, 9 (47%) completed the program with a median age of 56 years (49, 71.5) and 50% female sex. Duration of monitoring was 58 days (29, 77). Common symptoms at intake included pain (28.1%), fatigue (21.9%), loss of appetite and constipation (15.6% each), sweats/chills (6.3%), and nausea/vomiting (12.5%). Among enrolled patients, 15 submitted at least 1 set of questionnaires during the program. Of these individuals 13 of them generated 106 alerts; 18 of which prompted escalation by the RPM team – 11 emergency room visits, and 4 hospital admissions. Alerts were mostly for pain/abdominal pain (52.9%) and nausea/vomiting (29.4%), with some for fatigue, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and difficulty eating. Conclusion: This pilot study demonstrates that a pancreatitis-specific remote patient monitoring program is feasible and well-accepted by most patients after hospitalization. The program was usable and engaged patients in symptom reporting, and helped guide early action for those who may need escalation and intervention.