To permit remote programming of implantable cardiac stimulation devices such as pacemakers, a central device programmer is provided in conjunction with a network of remote telemetry units for use in patient homes or in remote clinics. To reprogram a device implanted within a patient, a physician enters programming commands within the central programmer which relays the programming commands to a remote telemetry unit in proximity to the patient. The remote telemetry unit, in turn, forwards the programming commands to the implanted device. In this manner, the patient need not return to the physician for reprogramming of the device. Remote telemetry units may be provided within patient homes, clinics, hospital emergency rooms, hospital patient rooms, and the like. Depending upon the implementation, different levels of programmability may be permitted depending upon the degree of supervision of the patient. For an unsupervised patient, limited programmability is permitted. For a nurse-supervised patient, a greater degree of programmability is permitted. Finally, for a physician-supervised patient, a full range of programmability is permitted. In a specific example described herein, each remote telemetry unit includes minimal hardware and software components necessary to relay programming commands, diagnostic information, and other signals between the central programmer and the implanted device.