Communication between an implantable device(s), such as a neural stimulator, and an external remote device(s), e.g., a computer in a clinician's office, a computer in a patient's home, or a handheld patient remote control, is performed entirely via an RF link. In order to conserve power, the RF telemetry system of the implant is only activated periodically; with the period of activation being sufficiently short so as to allow a reasonably prompt response of the implant to a request for a communication session by the external device. In order to assure reliable communication, the RF information may be encoded, as appropriate, with error correction codes.