How to Track Hospital Stretchers Efficiently While Staying Within Budget
Discover how Lean and Six Sigma principles paired with technology can enhance healthcare asset management.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Benefits of Using Lean and Six Sigma for Hospital Stretcher Tracking
- Steps to Implement a Cost-Effective Stretcher Tracking System
- Integrating BLE and RFID Technologies
- Shopping List for Setting Up a Tracking System
- Real-Life Examples and Case Studies
- Conclusion
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced healthcare environment, efficient hospital stretcher tracking is crucial to ensure smooth operations and patient safety. The challenge many hospitals face is implementing a cost-effective solution that fits within tight budgets, typically around $18,000 per year. This blog will explore how Lean and Six Sigma methodologies can optimize healthcare asset management, specifically focusing on stretcher tracking systems.
Benefits of Using Lean and Six Sigma for Hospital Optimize Tracking using RFID
Lean and Six Sigma principles emphasize waste reduction and process optimization, which are perfect for improving healthcare environments. By applying these principles:
- Enhance Efficiency: Streamline operations and reduce time wasted searching for medical equipment.
- Improve Patient Care: Ensure that stretchers and other critical assets are always available.
- Cost Savings: Optimize resource allocation and minimize unnecessary expenses.
Steps to Implement a Cost-Effective Stretcher Tracking System
Embarking on the journey to implement an effective stretcher tracking system can be daunting, but by following these actionable steps, you can ensure a smooth process:
1. Assess Your Needs
- Evaluate your hospital’s layout and current asset management process.
- Identify how many gateways and tags are needed based on hospital size.
2. Choose the Right Technology
- Decide between BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) based on your hospital’s specific needs.
- Consider the cost, precision, and integration capabilities with the existing systems.
3. Develop a Budget Plan
- Calculate the cost of tags, gateways, software, installation, and contingency funds.
- Aim to manage all expenses within the annual budget of $18,000.
4. Implement Efficiently
- Deploy the selected technology.
- Train staff to use and maintain the system effectively.
5. Monitor and Optimize
- Use data analytics to continually assess the system’s performance.
- Make iterative improvements aligned with Lean and Six Sigma principles.
Integrating BLE and RFID Technologies
Both BLE and RFID technologies offer distinct advantages in a hospital setting:
- BLE: Known for its long battery life and the ability to provide more comprehensive data, BLE systems are scalable and offer quick deployment.
- RFID: Offers a cost-effective solution for large-scale tracking, often used for passive tracking of less critical assets.
SLean, a Lean Six Sigma tool, helps healthcare organizations effectively integrate these technologies, ensuring enhanced real-time equipment tracking and asset management.
Shopping List for Setting Up a Tracking System
Here’s a breakdown to track 100 hospital stretchers with a budget of $18,000:
- Asset Tracking Tags (BLE or RFID)
- Quantity: 100 tags
- Total Cost: $3,000
- BLE Gateways/Readers
- Quantity: 10 units
- Total Cost: $8,000
- Tracking Software License
- Total Cost: $4,000
- Installation and Configuration
- Total Cost: $2,000
- Contingency/Support
- Total Cost: $1,000
Real-Life Examples and Case Studies
1. Spotto and Kontakt.io
- Spotto provides a low-cost, easy-to-deploy BLE tracking system. It’s ideal for budget-constrained healthcare facilities, providing real-time data and integration flexibility.
- Kontakt.io uses BLE to track high-value assets like stretchers, ensuring operational efficiency and reduced search times.
2. Digital Matter
- Their platform supports both BLE and GPS, offering robust asset management solutions that enhance hospital efficiency.
Conclusion
Implementing a budget-friendly stretcher tracking system not only enhances hospital operations but also aligns with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies for centralized asset management. Ready to transform your hospital’s efficiency? Explore the power of SLean today for a comprehensive solution that optimizes workflows and reduces waste.
Implement and revolutionize your healthcare institution with the help of SLean!Try SLean Today!
Harness the full potential of Lean and Six Sigma in your healthcare facility. Optimize asset management and improve patient outcomes now.