Enhancing Caregiver Security: Midmark RTLS Innovations
The planned integration will enable immediate alerts within Epic during emergency situations to protect caregivers.
Midmark RTLS, a prominent provider of real-time locating system (RTLS) technology, is pushing the envelope on staff safety with its CareFlow RTLS Staff Duress feature, which is currently in development in the Staff Duress category of Epic Toolbox. This innovative integration aims to improve safety protocols within healthcare systems, ensuring caregivers are protected in emergency situations.
Strategic Advances in Staff Safety
With this new integration, Midmark RTLS badges will have the capability to transmit location-aware staff duress alerts directly into Epic using HL7 FHIR-based APIs. The process is exceedingly simple: a caregiver can discreetly activate their Midmark RTLS badge, prompting CareFlow RTLS to relay a precise alert to Epic, pinpointing who requires assistance and the location of the incident. This quick response mechanism empowers staff to call for help efficiently.
Addressing Workplace Challenges
When healthcare professionals encounter threats in their work environment, both patient care and staff retention are severely impacted. The effects ripple out, affecting operational success, patient satisfaction, and the overall dynamics of healthcare environments. Staff duress technology that utilizes RTLS is a proven tactic that can effectively mitigate the surge in workplace violence within healthcare settings.
Expert Insights on Staff Safety
“Staff safety remains a crucial application for RTLS, particularly with the persistent rise in violence in healthcare facilities,” remarked Allen Foucht, senior customer success coaching and education manager at Midmark RTLS. “We have implemented a significant upgrade to our CareFlow Staff Duress product, enabling centralized management of incidents and simplified configuration of alerts. Our collaboration with Epic will enhance this functionality—providing seamless push notifications within the system clinicians are already using, which bolsters safety measures across healthcare facilities.”
A Comprehensive Approach to Alerts
When threats arise, a single press of the button on the Midmark RTLS badge sends pertinent details to Epic, including the staff member's name and location. Epic will subsequently notify designated security teams through its push notification system, enabling coordinated and timely responses. Additionally, responders will have the ability to acknowledge or decline alerts from within the Epic system.
Key Features of the CareFlow Staff Duress Solution
Midmark's CareFlow Staff Duress solution offers several pivotal benefits:
- Ease of use: This solution utilizes the existing RTLS badges, which are also commonly employed to automate nurse call systems, eliminating the need for extras.
- Effective alert systems: It provides real-time data on who is in need, when, and where such incidents occur, allowing security personnel to act promptly.
- Empowered workplace: Staff can confidently signal for assistance when necessary, ensuring their safety is prioritized during critical situations.
CareFlow is designed for seamless installation, even in environments lacking existing RTLS. The platform is compatible with both Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and infrared (IR) technologies, which allows for flexible installation strategies. Facilities can leverage pre-existing BLE-enabled Wi-Fi access points or deploy Midmark RTLS BLE and IR sensory networks with minimal disruption. By fusing IR’s room-level accuracy with BLE’s cost-efficiency and near-room precision, CareFlow ensures a reliable location tracking system without requiring extensive infrastructure changes.
Long-standing Relationship with Epic
The collaboration between Midmark RTLS and Epic has a rich history, beginning with the first integration in 2012. The recent acknowledgment of CareFlow RTLS under Epic Toolbox further solidifies this partnership. The upcoming Staff Duress integration not only builds upon the existing advantages but also enhances communication among the care team, streamlining patient flow and boosting staff productivity through automation based on accurate location data.
Healthcare leaders can find further information about Midmark CareFlow RTLS in the Staff Duress Toolbox section of the Epic Showroom. Additionally, those attending the Epic UGM have the opportunity to meet directly with Midmark representatives at their booth.
About Midmark RTLS
Midmark RTLS, a subsidiary of Midmark Corporation, provides healthcare settings with clinical workflow enhancements and data insights through its real-time locating system technology. Established in 1988, over 1,100 hospitals, clinics, and oncology centers benefit from Midmark RTLS solutions, which focus on enhancing patient experiences and delivering superior care quality. With capabilities that improve communication and boost resource efficiency, Midmark RTLS supports healthcare facilities in maximizing their operational effectiveness.
About Midmark Corporation
Founded in 1915, Midmark Corporation specializes in creating integrated clinical care experiences crucial for millions of daily medical, dental, and veterinary appointments. The company is dedicated to designing and producing a wide range of products and solutions that integrate space, technology, and workflows in clinical settings. With its headquarters in Ohio, Midmark operates various facilities across the United States and has international subsidiaries. For more insights into Midmark’s offerings, visit their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CareFlow RTLS Staff Duress?
CareFlow RTLS Staff Duress is a safety solution designed to enhance staff protection in healthcare environments by integrating location-aware alerts into the Epic system.
How does the integration improve staff safety?
It allows caregivers to send immediate alerts with their location upon pressing a button on their RTLS badge, ensuring quick responses from security teams.
What technologies does Midmark use for CareFlow?
Midmark utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and infrared (IR) technologies for precise location tracking without extensive infrastructure changes.
How long has Midmark worked with Epic?
Midmark and Epic have collaborated since 2012, continuously working on enhancing care and safety features within their systems.
What benefits does CareFlow provide to healthcare facilities?
CareFlow optimizes safety, improves communication, streamlines patient flow, and enhances resource utilization in healthcare settings.
