A system and method for communicating data and signals through the Medical Implant Communication Service Band using a repeater or base station in the proximity to an implantable device within a patient is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the device is capable for early detection and monitoring of congestive heart failure in a patient. Impedance measurements, or other health parameters depending on the type of implantable device or sensor used, are sent using a bi-directional low-power radio operating in the MICS band to a nearby base station which may provide signal processing and analysis. The base station may have an interface to one or more communications networks to connect to a remote location. The system and method of the present invention permits a healthcare professional to monitor an ambulatory patient's condition at a remote location and to program the implanted device.