GPS tracking of medical devices in the community
Benefits
Helping healthcare providers keep track of devices in the community
Many hospitals and other healthcare providers struggle to keep track of medical devices that move between hospitals, community services and patients' homes. High-value portable medical equipment, such as BodyGuard ™ (formerly T34) syringe drivers and wound pumps, are essential for palliative and home-based care, yet they are frequently misplaced or not returned following discharge. This leads to tens of thousands of pounds in avoidable replacement costs every year for NHS Trusts.
RFiD Discovery delivers a powerful GPS tracking solution designed to support healthcare organisations keep track of their medical devices in the community. With real-time visibility of medical assets, healthcare providers can improve utilisation, reduce loss, and ensure critical devices are always available for the patients who need them most.
Why is GPS tracking of medical devices in the community important?
Devices used away from the hospital site are unable to be found using traditional asset tracking solutions such as passive and active RFID tags, making it difficult for teams to know where equipment is located. This visibility gap affects patient safety, clinical efficiency and financial resources.
Accurate GPS tracking helps resolve these issues by monitoring the location of devices such as BodyGuard™ syringe drivers, whether they are in a patient’s home, travelling with a community nurse, or awaiting return to the hospital.
With accurate location data, clinical engineering teams can quickly identify which devices are overdue for return, overdue for servicing, or ready for reuse. This reduces operational delay and decreases dependency on costly replacement purchases.
How does GPS tracking of medical devices work?
Smart GPS tags for BodyGuard™ syringe drivers and more
Each device - such as a BodyGuard ™ syringe driver or wound pump - is fitted with a compact and durable GPS tag. These tags include a built-in SIM card for data transmission and are designed for demanding healthcare environments.
Each tag features:
- Waterproof and shock-resistant construction (IP68 rating)
- AAA batteries which can be easily replaced, and last up to 10 years
- Power saving features such as sleep mode when the device is stationary
Secure lockbox for controlled drug security
To safeguard the device and its medication, the GPS tag sits within a robust, easy-to-clean custom case developed specifically for clinical use. It is designed to:
- Protect the syringe driver and controlled drugs inside
- Allow the syringe driver’s battery to be changed without removing the lockbox
- Provide clear access to the keypad and infusion line
- Integrate seamlessly with the existing BD-supplied locking barrel and key for authorised access
Real-time tracking through the RFiD Discovery platform
Location data is securely transmitted via the cellular network to a central RFiD Discovery database, where clinical engineering teams and medical staff can view the location of equipmet in real-time.
The system provides an intuitive interface with:
- A searchable list of all devices
- Live map view showing current positions and movement history
- Customisable geo-fencing to define approved areas
- Alerts via SMS, email or dashboards when devices leave pre-set zones
- Reporting tools for audits, servicing schedules and compliance tracking
Integrated tracking solutions
This GPS based solution is integrated with our other tracking systems using passive RFID or active tracking technologies to locate medical devices in the hospital, track sterile services equipment, monitor temperature, protect staff safety or track patient flow. This means you can manage all location data conveniently in one place.
Discover how real-time location tracking of medical devices across the community can boost utilisation, reduce losses, and cut capital costs
DownloadFrequently asked questions (FAQs)
Which devices can be GPS-tracked in the community?
A wide range of medical devices used in community care are able to be tracked such as BodyGuard™ syringe drivers, wound pumps, infusion devices as well as other mobile medical devices.
How does GPS tracking support medical device servicing and compliance?
Clinical engineering teams can quickly locate devices due for servicing, ensuring they meet safety and compliance standards and reducing overdue maintenance.
Can GPS tracking improve utilisation of community healthcare equipment?
Yes. Real-time insight into availability and location helps clinical teams redeploy devices faster, improving asset utilisation across acute and community care.
What happens if a medical device is moved outside an approved area?
Geo-fencing alerts notify teams immediately via dashboard, email or SMS, helping prevent loss of the device.
