Enhancing Patient Safety

Abstract

Internet of things (IoT) technologies are revolutionizing industries through enabling object identification, traceability, real-time communication, and monitoring. In healthcare (HC), IoT has potential to contribute to several areas, from patient-related smart services to medical logistics. One area of paramount importance in HC is patient safety, which includes the correct identification, treatment, tracking, and monitoring of patients. Published statistics suggest that there is a mounting number of patient mistreatments due to the erroneous identification of the patient or the drug administered. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is envisioned as a disruptive innovation in HC & represents several opportunities for increased safety. However, the adoption of RFID in HC still lags behind other industries. Through a literature review, the authors explore the potentials & challenges of RFID adoptions in HC, with a focus on patient safety. Our findings suggest that high costs of adoption, security & privacy concerns and human safety risks are the main barriers for adoption.