Transcript RFID Technology in Healthcare

RFID Technology
in Healthcare
Presenters:
Lauren Gunn and Connor
Zale
Purpose
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Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a technology that
allows for the transfer of data using radio frequency
electromagnetic fields. Data is then used to for
identification, tracking and security of people, animals
and objects. RFID has many similarities with barcoding but
with the unique characteristics of read or read/write and
read if wet or thru clothing. RFID can be useful in a clinical
setting by enhancing patient identification, managing
assets and equipment, securing newborns and reducing
drug and blood administration errors. Concerns with RFID
usage in medicine are primarily aimed towards privacy
rights, negative affects on other medical instruments and
prices associated with RFID usage.
RFID Technology
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Two parts- Tag (transponder)
and a reader (scanner)
Active or Passive Tags
Active tags require a battery
that lasts several years.
Passive tags use reader
emissions that power a
response (Sub-dermal
placement).
Active- Longer range and
more memory
Passive- Short range and less
memory
Advantages of RFID in Medicine
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Ability to identify patients
easily.
Unique illnesses and
allergies can be linked to
RFID technology.
Locating essential hospital
equipment with RFID.
Applications in tracking
and matching blood
transfusions.
Follow pharmaceutical
orders and combat the
distribution of counterfeit
medical products.
Disadvantages of RFID
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Patient identity could be
breached and patient
information can be
exposed.
Some RFID tags have been
observed to affect devices
such as pacemakers and
ventilators by
electromagnetic
interference (EMI).
RFID use may impact the
cost of medical care and
drive premiums up.
Some civil libertarians fear that
RFID use may reduce the
privacy of the individual.