Real-time locating systems (RTLS) in healthcare: a condensed primer

Maged N Kamel Boulos,Geoff Berry

doi:10.1186/1476-072x-11-25

Abstract

Real-time locating systems (RTLS, also known as real-time location systems) have become an important component of many existing ubiquitous location aware systems. While GPS (global positioning system) has been quite successful as an outdoor real-time locating solution, it fails to repeat this success indoors. A number of RTLS technologies have been used to solve indoor tracking problems. The ability to accurately track the location of assets and individuals indoors has many applications in healthcare. This paper provides a condensed primer of RTLS in healthcare, briefly covering the many options and technologies that are involved, as well as the various possible applications of RTLS in healthcare facilities and their potential benefits, including capital expenditure reduction and workflow and patient throughput improvements. The key to a successful RTLS deployment lies in picking the right RTLS option(s) and solution(s) for the application(s) or problem(s) at hand. Where this application-technology match has not been carefully thought of, any technology will be doomed to failure or to achieving less than optimal results.

Highlights

Real-time locating systems (RTLS, known as real-time location systems) have become an important component of many existing ubiquitous location aware systems
An RTLS consists of specialised fixed receivers or readers receiving wireless signals from small ID badges or tags attached to objects of interest and/or persons, to determine where the tagged entities are located within a building or some other confined indoor or outdoor space (Figure 1)
RTLS components and technologies In an RTLS, the location engine software communicates with tags and location sensors to determine the location of tagged entities

Summary

Introduction

Real-time locating systems (RTLS, known as real-time location systems) have become an important component of many existing ubiquitous location aware systems. Healthcare and hospitals [3,4,5,6], care homes [7] and even everyday home life (as an assistive technology, where applicable) can all potentially benefit by using an appropriate RTLS solution.

Results

Conclusion