In the healthcare industry, effective management of medical equipment is essential to provide high-quality patient care in a timely manner. Cependant, hospitals face a significant challenge: lost or misplaced assets can lead to financial losses and operational inefficiencies. The latest data shows that hospitals lose an average of £200,000 per year due to lost or misplaced medical equipment. To solve this problem, Communication en champ proche (NFC) technology offers a promising solution for asset tracking.
Implementation steps
- Select an encrypted Étiquette NFC
The first step in implementing an NFC asset tracking system is to choose an encrypted Étiquette NFC. These tags ensure that the data stored on the tags is secure and only accessible by authorised personnel. By using encrypted tags, hospitals can protect sensitive information and comply with HIPAA regulations regarding data privacy and security.
- Integrate with electronic medical record systems
To maximise the effectiveness of NFC asset tracking, the system must be integrated with an electronic medical record (EHR) system. This integration enables a seamless data exchange between asset tracking systems and patient records, allowing hospitals to track not only the location of equipment, but also its usage and maintenance history. This integration ensures that healthcare providers have all relevant information at their fingertips, resulting in greater efficiency and improved patient care.
- Employee training programmes
A successful NFC asset tracking system requires well-trained staff. Hospitals should implement a comprehensive training programme to educate staff on how to use the system effectively. This includes training on how to scan NFC tags, access tracking data, and report any issues or discrepancies. By ensuring that all staff are proficient in using the system, hospitals can maximise its benefits and minimise the risk of errors.
Case Study: NFC Reduces Device Search Time by 15%
Singapore General Hospital,is a hospital that has successfully implemented NFC asset tracking. By using encrypted NFC tags and integrating the system with its EHR, the hospital reduced the time it spent searching for devices by 15%. This improvement not only saves time, but also improves patient care by ensuring that equipment is available when needed. The hospital’s staff have embraced the system, and patient satisfaction has increased due to more efficient and timely care.
