In the evolving landscape of healthcare, sustainability has become a critical focus. The National Health Service (NHS) faces the dual challenge of providing high-quality patient care while managing costs and environmental impact. One overlooked aspect of sustainability is the regular maintenance and servicing of medical equipment.
Prolonging equipment lifespan: Medical devices are the backbone of healthcare delivery. From diagnostic tools to life-saving equipment, their reliability directly impacts patient outcomes. Regular maintenance ensures that equipment functions optimally, reducing the risk of breakdowns and extending its lifespan.
By maximising the use of existing equipment, re-procurement costs are reduced, patient care is improved due to equipment accessibility, and the number of cancelled/delayed surgical procedures is reduced.
Patient safety and care: Well-maintained equipment directly translates to safer patient care. Imagine a scenario where a critical device such as a syringe driver fails during palliative care in a patient's home. Routine maintenance checks of this type of equipment located across community care ensure that equipment remains accurate, calibrated, and ready for use.
Cost-effectiveness: Asset tracking is a game-changer in supporting sustainability. By implementing robust tracking systems such as Idox’s iAsset solution, hospitals can monitor equipment usage, location, and condition. When assets are effectively tracked, staff can quickly locate them, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.
Moreover, preventative maintenance based on real-time data prevents costly breakdowns and emergency repairs. This approach saves money by avoiding premature replacements and minimising the need for emergency procurement.
The role of asset tracking: Asset tracking technology, such as RFID and GPS tagging, allows healthcare teams to keep tabs on equipment throughout its lifecycle regardless of its location. Tracking ensures efficient utilisation from when an item enters the hospital to its eventual retirement.
The NHS can enhance sustainability by prioritising regular maintenance, leveraging asset tracking, and ensuring that medical equipment remains reliable, safe, and cost-effective. By doing so, it not only supports patient care but also contributes to a greener, more efficient healthcare system.
