Problems in Oklahoma Hospitals with Wireless Technology

Problems in Oklahoma Hospitals with Wireless Technology

Problems-in-Oklahoma-Hospitals-with-Wireless-TechnologyOklahoma hospitals have some unique challenges when it comes to the implementation of wireless technology. Too often, these problems do not become apparent until the wireless solution is installed.

Let’s take a look at some of the problems Oklahoma hospitals face, and a few of the ways those issues can be addressed:

  • A Lack of Security – With the possible exception of the financial industry, no other entity has as much sensitive and critical information in its databases as the medical industry. No industry has had such poor security measures. Many hospital administrators, even those who are aware of the dangers involved with implementing wireless solutions, choose convenience over security. Doctors are allowed to use their personal devices to access records, computers are left unsecured, so the doctor doesn’t have to remember passwords or take the time to log on, and legacy wireless medical devices often can’t take advantage of the latest authentication and security measures. These are all issues that can cause a hospital to run afoul of HIPAA regulations. 
  • Building Materials – Especially in older hospitals, construction was not done in a way, or with materials, conducive to wireless. Cinder blocks and thick walls absorb signals, reducing the distance wireless can cover. Router and access point placement needs to be carefully considered – as well as how the wireless network is set up. Not enough access points, or access placed in the wrong spots, and reception will suffer. However, establish too many access points and wireless performance will suffer.  
  • Interference – Some hospitals do not allow cell phones and wireless devices because of interference with and from hospital equipment. A better approach is to plan how to have wireless and medical devices work together. The Oklahoma University Center for the Study of Wireless Electromagnetic Compatibility recently demonstrated a prototype evaluation tool that will allow hospitals to analyze interactions and properly plan how to implement wireless technology. 
  • Timing of Installation – A hospital cannot shut its doors for this. Finding the time that necessary staff will be on hand and will be the least disruptive to hospital operations for installation is critical. The good news is that with careful, detailed planning, the installation in many cases can be done smoothly and quickly. Partnering with a vendor who has successfully done hospital installations in the past can make the process easier and more efficient.

Wireless Challenges Can Be Overcome

There are too many advantages that wireless technology can bring to doctors and patients for hospitals to let the problems prevent them from implementation. With proper training, partnership, and careful planning, most of the problems can be dealt with successfully.

 

What problems do you see with Oklahoma hospitals implementing wireless technology? Let us know your thoughts in the Comments box below.

 

And to follow up on the tips introduced in this article, be sure to download your free Oklahoma Hospital Administrators Wireless Networking Resource Kit.