e-Healthcare Model Facility Opening in Ontario
The Brampton Civic Hospital, opening in just a few weeks in Ontario, Canada is modeled on an entirely electronic model of healthcare delivery. This includes a completely wireless facility, for monitoring and records management, among other tasks required for inpatient facilities. An article in The Canadian Press describes new hospital in greater detail.
When patients enter the facility, they will check in by swiping health cards at electronic kiosks that “speak” eight different languages. The kiosk will provide maps directing them to the hospital location where they are expected.
The next stop is a desk, where a clerk verifies each patient’s photo identification and then provides each with their hospital identification bracelet. Next year, the bracelets will be modified to include bar codes for scanning.
All patient records will be completely electronic and digital. All imaging studies will be completely digitized for upload with PACS, along with reports. Laboratory tests will also be maintained electronically. Hospital staff with appropriate clearance can review patient data from any location within the hospital.
Brampton Civic also implemented a wireless system within the facility. Monitors that track vital signs and other data are captured with this method and logged to patient records. Computerized displays at each patient’s bed allow nurses to enter data at the bedside. Handheld devices used by staff members allow ongoing monitoring of vitals, as well as communication directly with patients requesting assistance.
E-prescribing and dispensing tools are also planned for use. Automated generation of pill packages is completed by the PillPick, the sealed package includes each patient’s medications for a 24 hour period. This is then distributed to mobile medication cabinets (MedCOWS) and nursing stations.
October 18, 2007 Related topics: General Management & Administration, Wireless