Today, process automation has become a key trend in the business world and in the healthcare sector. Organizations are constantly looking for ways to optimize their operations, reduce errors and improve efficiency in service delivery. In this context, RTLS (Real-Time Location System) based solutions have emerged as an innovative tool capable of transforming the way processes are carried out in various industries, including healthcare.
Process automation using RTLS-based solutions involves the use of real-time tracking technology to track and manage assets, equipment, and personnel in a given environment. This technology provides accurate and up-to-date information on the location and status of resources, enabling more efficient decision-making and task execution.
From manufacturing to banking, automation has proven its ability to streamline tasks, minimize errors and free up human resources for more strategic activities. However, one of the areas where process automation has even more significant potential is the healthcare sector.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of process automation with RTLS-based solutions in different industries. In addition, we will delve into the field of healthcare, where process automation with RTLS-based solutions has proven its worth.
Process Automation in Other Industries
Process automation with RTLS-based solutions has proven to be highly effective in a variety of industries. Below, we will explore concrete examples of how the implementation of this technology has transformed operations in different sectors, delivering significant benefits in terms of efficiency, error reduction, cost savings, and improved service quality.
🔹 Manufacturing Industry: In manufacturing, process automation with RTLS-based solutions has enabled efficient tracking and management of assets, machinery, and products in real time. Companies can monitor production flow, identify bottlenecks and optimize resource allocation. This has resulted in increased operational efficiency, reduced errors in the supply chain, and improved end-product quality.
🔹Logistics and Distribution: In the logistics and distribution sector, process automation with RTLS-based solutions have revolutionized inventory management, parcel tracking, and route planning. Companies can track products in real-time, optimize warehousing and streamline the delivery process. This has led to a reduction in inventory management errors, increased supply chain efficiency, and improved customer satisfaction due to faster and more accurate delivery times.
🔹Banking: In the banking industry, process automation with RTLS-based solutions has simplified and streamlined document management, customer service, and branch security. Financial institutions can automate tasks such as customer identification, asset tracking, and queue management. This has resulted in faster and more efficient service, reduced errors in documentation, and increased security in financial transactions.
🔹Retail and eCommerce: In retail and eCommerce, process automation with RTLS-based solutions has improved inventory management, customer experience, and efficiency in shop operations. Companies can track products in real-time, analyze buying patterns and optimize staff scheduling. This has led to a reduction in inventory management errors, an improved customer shopping experience, and increased profitability.
Process Automation in the Health Sector
Process automation in the healthcare sector has become essential to improve efficiency in healthcare management. In combination with real-time location technology (RTLS), true process automation has been achieved that eliminates manual actions.
RTLS is especially relevant in healthcare because of its ability to orchestrate processes around the patient. This includes tasks such as room allocation, scheduling of tests and procedures, and coordination between departments and medical professionals. Real-time patient location not only affects tasks but also provides up-to-date information to all medical and administrative staff. This real-time information capability is essential for efficient management and accurate decision-making.
RTLS automates the collection and updating of patient location and status data, streamlining coordination and avoiding the need for manual follow-ups or additional communications to obtain updated information. It also reduces administrative workload by eliminating the need for manual annotations and minimizing associated errors. Medical staff can focus on direct patient care while information is automatically recorded.
Task accuracy and consistency are also improved with automation. Automated systems follow predefined rules and processes, reducing the likelihood of human error. In addition, the real-time information provided by RTLS makes it possible to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement in task management.
Access to data also benefits from RTLS, as the real-time location of the patient allows quick access to their medical history, tests performed, medications prescribed, and other relevant information. This eliminates the need to search for physical records or wait for updates, streamlining processes and ensuring care based on up-to-date and complete information.
In short, the availability of real-time patient location through RTLS goes beyond task automation. It improves decision-making, optimizes resource allocation, and enhances patient care. Data management, requests, last-minute changes, and delays are handled efficiently thanks to the up-to-date and accurate information provided by RTLS.
RTLS-based solutions to automate general VS healthcare-specific processes
The main difference between an RTLS-based solution to automate processes in general and one created exclusively for healthcare is its approach and adaptation to the needs and particularities of the healthcare sector. Some key differences are detailed below:
▪ Customization and configuration: A solution designed specifically for healthcare is developed with the specific workflows and requirements of medical environments in mind. This means greater customization and configuration of the solution to suit medical processes, regulations, and protocols.
▪ Integration with healthcare systems: An RTLS-based healthcare solution integrates directly with systems and technologies used in the healthcare sector, such as hospital management systems, electronic medical records, and other clinical systems. This allows for a more seamless synchronization and exchange of data, which is essential for efficient process management and decision-making based on up-to-date and complete information.
▪ Healthcare-specific functionalities: RTLS-based solutions for healthcare often include features and functionalities specific to the healthcare sector. For example, the ability to track and manage medical equipment, real-time patient location tracking, surgery and procedure scheduling, medication management, and patient safety assurance are key aspects that are often present in these solutions.
In summary, while an RTLS-based solution to automate processes, in general, can be applied to different sectors, a healthcare-specific solution is tailored to the unique needs and requirements of the medical sector. It provides healthcare-specific functionality, integrates with existing healthcare systems, and complies with industry regulations and standards, making it better suited to improve the efficiency and quality of processes in healthcare environments.
RTLS-based solutions built specifically for healthcare
At MYSPHERA we know that these differences are crucial when it comes to implementation and efficient and optimised operation. In order to get the most out of these technological tools, it is necessary to know first-hand what the needs of the hospital and its professionals are and to adapt the solutions to their workflow.
Because managing a surgical block is not the same as managing an emergency department, for example. That is why we have created specific solutions for each of these healthcare areas.
ORvital: Our orchestration and process automation solution for the surgical block.
STELA: Solution for the integrated management of the emergency department.
