Internet of Things in Healthcare

Internet of Things in Healthcare (Definition and Examples)

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The IoT is changing modern-day healthcare. It’s allowing staff to provide the care they need to the right patients at the right time.

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However, what is the Internet of Things for healthcare? What type of IoT is available, and why is it needed?

What Is the Internet of Things (IoT) in Healthcare?

The IoT in healthcare refers to a network of connected medical devices, systems, applications, etc., that collect and exchange data in real-time. For example, wearable monitor RFID tags, smart beds, and digital surveillance systems.

Types of IoT Used in Healthcare

Type	Description	Example in Use
Wearable Monitors	Track vitals like heart rate, oxygen levels, and mobility	Alerts nurses when a patient's vitals drop suddenly
Smart Beds	Monitor patient movement and position	Sends notifications if a high-fall-risk patient exits bed
RFID Equipment Tags	Real-time location tracking for medical tools	Helps staff find infusion pumps or ventilators quickly
Environmental Sensors	Detect temperature, humidity, or air quality	Ensure compliance in clean rooms and med storage areas
Smart ID Badges	Tracks staff locations and access permissions	Restricts entry to operating rooms or pharmacy areas
Surveillance Cameras	Record and stream live footage; tie into facility security	Monitor ICU access and hallway activity

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Why IoT Matters in Healthcare Facilities

Implementing IoT correctly in a healthcare setting can improve the safety of patients, the workflow of staff, and compliance.

Improves Patient Safety

Real-time monitoring of vitals and equipment reduces the time between incident detection and response.

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This was particularly important during COVID-19. Many healthcare providers used IoT-based monitoring to be alerted faster and to achieve better outcomes.

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It worked because it removed the need for manual checkups. This saved countless hours for medical professionals so they’re able to focus on the patients that need it most.

Boosts Operational Efficiency

IoT, in effect, can cut down massively on processes that are usually considered “manual”.

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For example, when using RFID in healthcare. These are tags you can attach to equipment so it can be found instantly, rather than being manually searched for.

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This has been proven in studies as well. A 2022 study found that those who used RFID saw a 27% boost in equipment utilization efficiency.

Enhances Data Accuracy and Compliance

Alongside the above, IoT automates the process of data collection. This can reduce the chances of human error and streamline reporting for regulatory compliance and HIPAA.

How Beacon Services Supports IoT in Healthcare Facilities

Since 2002, we’ve helped many healthcare facilities implement IoT into their operations, improving safety, workplace efficiency, and compliance.

Scalable Network Infrastructure

IoT devices are only as good as the network they’re installed on. Our team can survey your property, design a network, and install the infrastructure based on your property and needs. This could be anything from full wi-fi installation to access control, RFID implementation, and more.

Integrated Camera and RFID Security

By combining digital surveillance cameras with something like access controls and RFID technology, we’re able to help facilities monitor sensitive areas like ICUs and pharmacies. This means you can review and log staff moments, visitor access, and asset flow automatically.

Long-Term Tech Support and Maintenance

All of our services come with technical support. This includes real-time troubleshooting, ongoing firmware updates, and 24/7 monitoring. Our team will always be there in an emergency and in times of need.

Contact Us

IoT in healthcare is important, whether in a hospital, an assisted living facility, or something else. To start taking advantage of such technology, contact us today. Let Beacon future-proof your operations and protect your patients.