Counterarguments for Asset Tracking with RFID
RFID technology for device tracking is much discussed within the healthcare community. A wrinkle to its practical implementation in healthcare applications has been recognized; is the tracking capability available with WiFi accurate enough for this environment?
The concern is the considerable cost for applications capable of sufficient granularity, which generally require separate networks. PanGo already modified its Locator system application to include WiFi.
ECRI, a Philadelphia based non-profit health services research agency, has dedicated health technology and device teams that are questioning whether asset-tracking currently provides adequate return on investment (ROI); noting that current data doesn’t support the financial benefits for all institutions. ECRI staff also note that current applications for asset tracking are only suitable for purposes of equipment maintenance and recalls. ECRI recommended waiting and pursuing other options for device tracking in the interest of cost savings.
While asset tracking may not be ideal for hospitals at this time, the market continues to push technology advancements. Organizations invested in asset tracking technology acknowledge the gaps in current products and are developing innovations to address such. These solutions will assist in the complex task or managing both equipment and people in hospitals. See coverage in Digital Healthcare & Productivity.com
Related stories:
- RFID Technology Tracks Medical Equipment
- RFID’s Adoption in Supply Chains Proves Slow, But Hospitals Make It Work
- Gundersen Lutheran Handles Instruments with Wireless
- Active vs. Passive RFID Choice Must Be Driven by Business Case
- RFID for Health Care Productivity
- Active Supply Chain Management Can Cut Costs, Improve Service
March 22, 2007 Related topics: Trends, Supply chain/SCM, Policies & Procedures, IT & software