Application of RFID technology in patient management system

Abstract

Hospitals and other medical service facilities are trying to minimize the time it takes to serve a patient in an efficient manner. Typically, the service time involves identifying the patient, type of service required, history of treatment and accessing personal information. The current methodology consumes excessive time to perform these tasks. In addition, human error can make the procedure even longer. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology can play a key role to retrieve patient data and track patients within the medical facility. A basic RFID system consists of a tag, antenna and a reader. RFID tag is a low power communication device which is capable of storing information that can be attached to the patient ID card. Using this RFID methodology it is possible to access patient information and movement within the medical facility once registered. This paper details how a pilot model was developed to retrieve patient information quickly and locate the individual from registration onwards. A database was designed to facilitate data gathering and organizing them to be retrieved quickly. An output patient profile will be presented.