We’ve grown accustomed to the convenience of connected devices in our personal lives. Our mobile phones allow us to manage home thermostats, locate lost items and devices, and communicate with visitors at our front door. Connected technology has become an indispensable part of our daily routines.
The healthcare industry isn't exactly known for being on the cutting edge of technology adoption thanks to its complex regulatory environment, the need for extensive staff training, and the inherent caution required when dealing with patient care and safety. However, ultrasound is one area that has managed to navigate these challenges and embrace connectivity more than some may realize.
Connected ultrasound devices are now supporting healthcare delivery by enabling smooth communication and collaboration among clinicians, patients, and healthcare systems, as well as facilitating worry-free IT management. This connectivity improves operational efficiency and can enhance patient care.
Why ultrasound needs connectivity
Managing ultrasound devices across a healthcare enterprise can be challenging and time intensive. Coordinating software and security updates across multiple devices without disrupting clinical operations can be difficult, and the need for frequent protocol updates is no small task for an enterprise with ultrasound devices spread across various geographic locations.
A connected approach can address these challenges by enabling centralized management, automated updates, and real-time performance monitoring. This streamlined method ensures that all devices are consistently updated and maintained, reducing downtime and minimizing errors. Centralized management also facilitates standardization across departments, enhancing overall efficiency and ensuring a cohesive, reliable ultrasound ecosystem.
Drawing parallels with consumer technology
Connected ultrasound applies some of the same concepts we’ve grown accustomed to in personal tech to streamline the IT management of ultrasound devices across a healthcare enterprise.
Device Management
Much like 'Family Sharing' in consumer tech, hospitals can integrate ultrasound devices across the system with appropriate controls and permissions, ensuring cohesive management and preventing unauthorized usage. This is especially timely given the surge in small, pocket-sized ultrasound devices that may be inadvertently left in places such as exam rooms, offices, or lounges. MyDeviceHub is a digital ultrasound solution allowing providers to remotely manage their fleet of GE HealthCare Vscan Air™ devices. Administrators can register and control all devices from a centralized portal, group them into fleets, and assign probes to specific departments. They can set up DICOM® destinations per fleet to ensure ultrasound images and related data can be stored, shared, and viewed consistently across different medical systems and devices, and restrict usage to authorized personnel. Detailed usage logs offer insights into device utilization, optimizing performance and maintenance schedules.
Remote Configurations
At home, we can configure and monitor various devices through a single interface—thermostats, lighting, security systems, and more. Similarly, connected ultrasound devices can provide real-time performance data, alerting staff to potential issues before they become critical. This proactive maintenance approach keeps machines in optimal condition, reducing downtime and costly repairs. Verisound Fleet, a cloud-based solution, allows teams to remotely manage device configurations across multiple locations. Protocol updates can be deployed virtually without disrupting utilization, centralizing management across departments and facilities. Technical supervisors can quickly push updates to all machines, regardless of location.
Video: Learn how Verisound Fleet is helping St. Luke’s University Network save time and reduce costs.
Real-Time Communication
Video doorbells allow us to see and communicate with visitors in real time, regardless of our location. This concept of real-time video connectivity can be extended to healthcare settings, particularly with ultrasound machines. It can enable lead sonographers to quickly share their expertise with new staff, and specialized clinicians to advise on the care of complex cases. This level of connectivity enhances collaboration, speeds up decision-making, and improves patient outcomes.
MyRemoteShare and DigitalExpert Connect are innovative solutions that enable real-time connectivity between ultrasound machines and healthcare providers. By securely connecting colleagues and educators through audio, video, and screen share capabilities, these tools transform the sonographer experience and extend access to care. They facilitate virtual connections with lead sonographers, supervisors, or clinicians, allowing them to provide real-time guidance, advice, and initial image quality approval. This live interaction can boost sonographer confidence and engagement and accelerate the learning curve for new technologists. The adoption of remote tele-mentored ultrasound significantly reduces patient callbacks and enhances departmental efficiency. By enabling virtual coaching and support, healthcare providers can deliver unprecedented levels of assistance, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes. This innovative approach mirrors the benefits seen in consumer technology, demonstrating the profound impact of real-time communication in medical settings.
Shaping the future of smart ultrasound
Integrating connectivity features into ultrasound strategies transforms the management of these diagnostic tools. Leveraging remote management, smart maintenance, and real-time communication, hospitals can create a more efficient, reliable, and patient-centered ultrasound ecosystem. Connected ultrasound helps us envision a future where all of healthcare operates with the same seamless connectivity and convenience we enjoy in everyday life.
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