April 10, 2008 – Siemens created the Asset Management and Tracking (AMT) tool that provides information on the location of medical devices via a Web portal or pocket PC in order to help hospitals provide better patient care, reduce costs, improve workflow and remain compliant.
The system works by tagging each product in the with the Ekahau WiFi RTLS (Real-Time Location System) tag. When coupled with ARCHIBUS, an integrated suite of applications, the product’s location information is transmitted through a WiFi network to the ARCHIBUS Executive Information System, creating a 360-degree view of the facility’s assets and equipment while maintaining historical use records.
Ekahau also generates actionable information, such as how many individual pieces of a particular equipment type are in one area of the hospital, which pieces are rented, and when each piece of equipment was last serviced. It’s patented radiofrequency modeling technology leverages standard WiFi access points and tags so no proprietary infrastructure is needed. Any WiFi network can function as the backbone and sensor network for the system.
ARCHIBUS reportedly offers applications that address all aspects of facilities and infrastructure management. An ARCHIBUS server links the information silos and diverse applications that support people, processes, places and physical assets into a comprehensive integrated solution. Because the ARCHIBUS suite is designed with a flexible, modular structure, facilities can assemble the combination of applications that best suits an organization’s requirements, according to the company.
For more information: www.usa.siemens.com/medical