McKesson Launches Asset Tracking
McKesson announced the full scale launch of their new tool for asset tracking in healthcare facilities, the Horizon Real-Time Location System. The product had previously been available only in limited markets, according to a press release from the company.
The technology integrates RFID tags with a Wi-Fi system used in a facility, mitigating the need to acquire an additional system to support tracking by using a standard 802.11 network. The small, battery powered RFID tags provided by McKesson can be used for tracking as determined by a facility’s needs. They are suitable for materials tracking, as well as hospital staff members.
The McKesson software provides real-time tracking of assets, equipment, and people throughout a facility. The existing wireless network is used to transmit signals generated from the RFID tags. Also incorporated into the Horizon system is a location network, which pinpoints location of assets with system mapping tools.
Identification of RFID tags is presented in a variety of displays, including a map of the site within the facility using internet access. Additional information is provided with text.
An additional feature of the system alerts appropriate staff members when equipment is removed from a designated location, sent via email or pager. Asset location information can be organized or collated to support tasks, such as materials management.
McKesson acquired the system when they purchased Awarix last month, as detailed on Hospital Buyer.
Related stories:
- Asset Tracking Utilizes Ultrasound Transmission
- Agility Develops Infrared and RFID for Asset Tracking
- Asset Tracking Tool from Xmark Launched
- Fluke Releases Asset Tracking System
- Counterarguments for Asset Tracking with RFID
August 17, 2007 Related topics: Wireless, Supply chain/SCM