Electronic Barcode System Collects Info from Medical Devices
A presentation at the 2008 Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Conference described data collected at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) from a project that employed an electronic barcode system. The system was especially designed to collect data from medical devices.
The new system uses device-agnostic, networked edge, wireless devices that employ a PDA/EDA format to link to clinical systems and medical devices by scanning 2D barcodes. Devices have barcodes attached which can be scanned. Readers are configured to automatically transmit information to appropriate clinical systems for data repository. The goal is also to have the system easily integrate with an electronic medical records system.
The system was initially developed to extend the lifespan of medical devices, review trends across locations and practices with longitudinal data, create a clean point of demarcation between the IT network and medical devices, capture vital signs for detection of disease precursors (particularly focused on detection of high blood pressure), and create a more portable data system.
Healthcare workers scan their identification badges to start the system which determines the credentials, training level, and responsibilities of that individual. Each patient’s identification band is then scanned, which determines the care requirements for a specific patient. Then the system scans each of the devices, as required, to complete necessary activities.
One component of the presentation detailed some of the challenges that arise when networking medical devices. Included among those are devices that have a variety of different uses, which result in multiple distinct networking needs for that same device. There is a wide range of medical devices, as well as different vendors, that serve distinct purposes and device operation cannot be compromised through networking approaches.
Each facility has unique requirements and there is no universal networking solution. One key element in designing a network is creating a system that supports workflow in the clinical setting.
February 29, 2008 Related topics: Wireless, New Technology & Innovation