Medical RFID technologies are expected to amount to roughly $14 billion by 2030, according to a recent report released by Grand View Research, Inc. As the healthcare industry continues to drive innovation, integrating and leveraging RFID technology is a key asset for growth.
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology is a wireless communication that utilizes radio waves to identify and track objects and people. While RFID technology has widespread use in various industries, it has and continues to improve efficiency, accuracy, and automation in data collection and management processes in hospitals.
What is RFID Technology
RFID technology is a wireless communication system that uses radio waves to identify and track objects and people. It consists of three main components: RFID tags, RFID readers, and a database.
RFID Tags
RFID tags are electronic devices containing a unique identifier. The microchips within RFID tags contain unique and specific information that is then read by an RFID reader. Tags come in a variety of forms, such as labels, cards, enclosures, and more, depending on the use.
Passive RFID tags are the most common tag in healthcare settings. Passive tags are activated when in range of an RFID reader, which emits radio waves.
RFID Readers
RFID readers emit radio waves that activate and collect information from the RFID tags. RFID readers can be handheld devices, integrated into fixed devices, or integrated into existing devices. Once the data is exchanged between the RFID tag and reader, the information is filtered, encrypted, and or validated before it is sent for storage and integration.
Software and Database
Once the RFID readers collect the information from the RFID tag, the information is then processed and stored in software and databases. The information collected is used to enhance processes and efficiencies depending on the industry.
In the health system, RFID technology can be used for inventory management, patient data collection, medication tracking, and so much more. Using RFID technology in healthcare settings can increase communication and collaboration and improve patient safety and decision-making.
How Hospital RFID Tracking Works
Hospital RFID tracking is a sophisticated system that leverages radio frequency identification technology to enhance efficiency and accuracy in healthcare settings. RFID tracking typically involves the use of RFID tags attached to patients, medical equipment, medication, and even staff badges.
RFID readers are strategically placed throughout the hospital that activate the RFID tags within range. When a tagged item, patient, or staff member moves throughout the hospital, these readers capture their individual RFID data and send it to a central database.
All this information can be accessed in real time. The tags may transmit information about the location of equipment or even patients, medication data and schedules, and more. All the information helps to improve patient care, reduce medical errors, and streamline operations.
In more recent years, RFID tracking has been used for asset management, compliance protocols, and modernizing healthcare facilities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, RFID technology was used in infection control and patient tracking.
RFID Technology Features
RFID technology has introduced a multitude of features and advantages within the healthcare sector. Some of the key features and benefits of RFID technology for hospitals include:
Asset Tracking
Asset tracking is a critical component of managing a healthcare system. Creating a smart medical environment enables medical staff and patients alike to focus on quality care and health management. Asset tracking is a key component.
Medical equipment is tagged with RFID tags to be monitored. Asset tracking enables medical professionals ready access the necessary equipment and reduces critical time spent on tracking down the tools they need to treat patients.
Medical tools and durable assets such as beds, machines, and other equipment are tracked to help improve asset utilization and management.
Inventory Management
In addition to asset tracking, healthcare providers use RFID technology to revolutionize inventory tracking processes. RFID tracking systems track resources and aggregate all the data about medical supplies, equipment, and even pharmaceuticals to provide real-time visibility and control over inventory levels.
Healthcare providers and medical staff rely on having the necessary equipment in moments of need. Inventory tracking is key for patient care and improving patient safety. Medical equipment tracking and automated inventory management reduce the risk of error and stockouts.
RFID technology ensures that critical supplies are ready and accounted for when critically needed, thus improving safety and efficiency. Additionally, RFID helps to monitor expiration dates, which helps medical staff eliminate critical medical errors.
RFID tracking systems enhance inventory accuracy, optimize supply chain operations, and increase efficiencies and effective healthcare delivery within hospital settings.
Patient and Staff Tracking
Radio-frequency identification also enhances patient security by tracking both patients and staff. Patients can wear RFID wristbands or badges, much like staff members, to help keep track of and account for their whereabouts.
The use of an RFID tracking system helps hospitals to keep track of patient’s movements in real time. This helps relieve the burden for staff members balancing their caseload with patients while also enabling them more freedom within the facility. RFID technology enhances the safety of patients while providing critical information for providers.
In addition to helping patients and medical staff, RFID technology also helps improve security and efficiency. RFID tags allow hospital management to monitor visitor access and entry into sensitive areas. This technology not only improves patient care by minimizing wait times and enhancing security but also by streamlining the allocation of hospital personnel and resources, ultimately optimizing the overall hospital experience for all involved.
Access Control
In addition to monitoring patients’ and staff’s location, RFID-enabled badges and key cards can be used to grant secure access. Using RFID-enabled badges grants access to specific portions of the hospital, which increases security and prevents unauthorized entry.
Access control safeguards guarantee that sensitive patient information is kept secure and that critical areas such as operating rooms and storage facilities are controlled and monitored.
Patient Flow Optimization
Patient flow optimization is also a driver for RFID utilization. Hospitals can use RFID data to analyze patient flow, identify bottlenecks, and reduce waiting times. By providing a holistic view of patient flow, RFID technology enhances the quality of care, increases operational efficiency, and contributes to a smooth, patient-centric healthcare environment.
Data Accuracy and Efficiency
Finally, RFID technology minimizes the burden of manual data entry errors. RFID technology enhances the accuracy of patient records, billing, and inventory management. This level of efficiency frees staff to focus instead on patient care.
RFID technology has revolutionized healthcare by providing an efficient and accurate means of tracking and managing equipment, supplies, and patient data.
In healthcare settings, RFID tags are attached to vital equipment and resources to provide real and evolving data about hospital resources. RFID technology enhances patient safety, reduces errors, streamlines processes, improves asset utilization, and increases operations within healthcare settings.
RFID technology puts the patient at the center of healthcare and assists staff in daily operations. If you are looking to leverage your existing technology to break into healthcare or enhance your own operations, give us a call. We can match you with the right team to enhance your operation.
We partner with clients to make their ideas become a reality.