From Pencils to PDAs: ITSPA Sees Evolution of Wireless Technology in Healthcare1 November 2005
With an increasing volume of patient data, the healthcare industry is driving the next generation of wireless innovation, using technology to enhance patient care, avoid errors and increase connectivity for medical staff. Representing more than 300 technology consultants around the nation, The Information Technology Solution Providers Alliance (ITSPA) has identified healthcare organizations as the industry responsible for revolutionizing wireless technology.
ITSPA members report that nurses are frequently driving the bulk of technology integration because of their constant need to access data while on the go. Nurses can now use handheld devices and the hospital's wireless network to contact one another, receive new tasks and update patient data, drastically increasing staff efficiency while maintaining patient care levels.
While hospitals, clinics and family practitioners want to increase efficiency and productivity by using wireless technology, the biggest challenge most healthcare offices face is security of sensitive information. This increased need for protection has lead to innovations in data security that ensure emerging technologies don't put patient information at risk.
"As the use and maintenance of these applications grow more complex, the best option for any size healthcare organization is to utilize a technology expert," said Russell Morgan, president of ITSPA. "These solution providers will be familiar with the legal regulations while making sure you have the best options available to maximize employee productivity and patient satisfaction, as well as insure the solutions meet your data protection requirements."
Many hospitals are using IP telephony and wireless technology to improve and enhance patient service while increasing the efficiency of insurance claims. Logicalis, an ITSPA member consulting company, has helped several healthcare providers integrate IP telephony and wireless data/voice-over wireless Internet protocol (VoWIP) technologies, resulting in better patient care, faster insurance claims, improved scheduling of hospital staff and superior security measures.
"Hospitals are adopting wireless and IP telephony at an astounding rate to take advantage of the convenience of having a single network for data, voice and video," said Ron Temske, director of IP communications for Logicalis. "When combined with a detailed security strategy to protect patient information, these technologies provides increased productivity and flexibility for employees and patients."
According to Morgan, solution providers are marrying the advantages of wireless with centralized data management, allowing healthcare personnel to collect data via handheld devices, but store that data in a secure central location. A solution provider with experience in healthcare should be able to help with the design, installation and administration of a comprehensive wireless strategy.
What's Happening in Healthcare Technology: A Quick Guide From ITSPA
-- More than other businesses, hospitals exist in an
ever-changing physical environment. Large machines can break
up wireless signals and hinder wireless networks -- and clinics
and hospitals are often adding new machinery or moving
equipment from room to room. Technology can now dynamically
assess changes in the layout of the hospital and automatically
configure networks to maintain a strong signal.
-- Every hospital should have appropriate security components
including firewalls, anti-virus and anti-spam software and
intrusion prevention software. In addition to these basic
security essentials, hospitals need strong authentication
protocols to manage control of who gets to access the network
and a wireless device management plan to ensure that any data
on these devices is also well protected. Security means
protecting both your network and your devices, whether you
add wireless to your technology infrastructure or not.
-- When deciding on using wireless devices in your healthcare
organization, technology professionals can help determine
whether tablet PCs, PDAs or cell phones are best for your
staff and patients. For more detailed information, contact
your technology consultant or e-mail findapartner@itspa.net
to speak with an expert.
About ITSPA
Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, the Information Technology Solution Providers Alliance (ITSPA) is a national, nonprofit alliance serving as a reliable and credible resource for businesses hoping to take advantage of the benefits of new technology. ITSPA is dedicated to helping small and medium-size businesses adopt technology and grow by using local solution providers to solve business challenges. Visit www.itspa.net for more information.
Information Technology Solution Providers Alliance logo is available at: http://www.primezone.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=1742
CONTACT:
Information Technology Solution Providers Alliance
Laura Bishow
(503) 231-3086
lbishow@itspa.net
Source: Prime Zone
All trademarks and copyrighted information contained herein are the property of their respective owners.
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