From Lab to Bedside: How Asset Tracking is Transforming the Healthcare Industry

In the healthcare industry, improving patient care and reducing costs are top priorities. One technology that's making a huge impact on medical technology and patient care is the Internet of Things (IoT). Among the many IoT solutions out there, GPS asset tracking is rapidly gaining popularity for its ability to achieve both of the above goals. Asset tracking systems allow workers to locate and monitor equipment and supplies more efficiently. 

But what exactly is GPS asset tracking, and how can it benefit the healthcare industry? In this blog post, we'll explore this technology and discuss its role in healthcare. We'll also delve into the current challenges facing healthcare and how GPS asset tracking can help resolve them. Finally, we'll take a look at some common applications of asset tracking in healthcare.

What is GPS Asset Tracking? 

GPS asset tracking uses connected tracking devices to locate assets in real-time. These devices come with a variety of features, including sensors that can monitor the environmental conditions of assets. The devices then transmit this data to a central platform, which can only be accessed by authorized personnel. With GPS asset tracking in place, healthcare professionals can monitor assets more efficiently, reducing costs and improving overall operations.

The Role of GPS Asset Tracking in Healthcare

One key benefit of GPS asset tracking in healthcare is the ability to locate medical equipment and supplies quickly and easily. Anything can be tracked, from hospital beds and IV pumps to medication carts. GPS asset tracking helps healthcare workers locate the equipment they need when they need it--reducing the risk of delays in patient care significantly. Additionally, GPS asset tracking helps prevent the loss/theft of expensive equipment, saving healthcare facilities a significant amount of money.

Current Challenges in Healthcare

The healthcare industry is facing several challenges that GPS asset tracking can help resolve. One of the most significant challenges is the high cost of medical equipment and supplies. With GPS asset tracking, healthcare facilities can locate and monitor their assets more efficiently, reducing the risk of loss/theft and extending the lifespan of the equipment. This technology also helps in reducing the amount of time spent looking for equipment--improving care and reducing costs.

Applications of Asset Tracking for Healthcare

There are several applications of GPS asset tracking for healthcare facilities.

• Tracking medical equipment supplies
  • Anything can be tracked including: Patient blood bags, heart monitors, EKG machines, hospital beds, wheelchairs, first aid equipment, medication cards, etc.
• Condition monitoring
  • Monitor the temperature, humidity, and pH of medical equipment and supplies, which can help prevent damage and reduce the risk of contamination.
• Inventory management
  • Asset tracking gives visibility into inventory in real-time. This enables healthcare workers to procure supplies before stock runs low and make sure there is always enough inventory on hand.

• Geofencing
  
  • Some asset tracking solutions allow users to set up geofences for work areas, so healthcare professionals can make sure expensive equipment doesn’t leave the perimeter without notice.

GPS asset tracking enables healthcare professionals to locate and monitor medical equipment and supplies more efficiently, which reduces the risk of delays in patient care and the loss/theft of expensive equipment. With these benefits and more, GPS asset tracking is quickly becoming an essential technology for healthcare facilities around the world.

Transforming Healthcare with POND IoT