JHMC Medical Center Optimizes Asset Tracking with RTLS

AI-based RTLS enhances equipment management

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center (JHMC) in Queens, New York, has implemented an AI-powered real-time location system (RTLS) from software company Cognosos to improve medical equipment tracking. The initiative aims to enhance patient care, streamline asset management, and optimize resource allocation.

Challenges in Equipment Availability

JHMC, a 400+ bed facility, faced difficulties in locating medical equipment. Despite sufficient inventory, caregivers often struggled to find necessary tools, leading to delays and increased purchase requests. Additionally, the inability to locate assets impacted preventive maintenance compliance, posing risks to patient safety and regulatory adherence.

Selecting the Right RTLS Solution

After evaluating asset management solutions for over seven years, JHMC identified key requirements: a comprehensive system with hardware, software, and customer support, high accuracy, ease of use, and reliable performance. Only two of the seven vendors met these criteria and agreed to an on-site proof-of-concept trial.

In the end, the chosen system from Cognosos integrates both AI and a lightweight network system combined with BLE that provides room-level tracking accuracy without dedicated installations.

Implementation and Initial Deployment

At the start of 2023, JHMC deployed the RTLS, beginning with a facility-wide mapping process covering approximately 600,000 square feet. The first phase tracked 2,500 essential medical devices, including defibrillators, infusion pumps, and compression pumps.

Since the implementation required neither extensive infrastructure nor wiring, it was integrated into the hospital’s regular operations without causing disruptions.

Operational Improvements and Cost Savings

The RTLS provided critical insights into asset distribution, helping to address shortages in emergency and intensive care units. Improved tracking of stretchers and wheelchairs further optimized workflow efficiency. As a result, reports of missing equipment have decreased, preventive maintenance compliance has improved, and losses due to theft or misplacement have been reduced, leading to cost savings.

Plans for Future Expansion

Following the successful RTLS implementation, JHMC is exploring further applications across other departments, including tracking iPads for language assistance services. Additionally, the hospital plans to expand the system to its MediSys sister facility in Flushing.

Source: Cognosos