Conversations with current and potential
MediGraph subscribers
regarding the use of wireless devices have been occurring more frequently.
MediGraph is capable of
being employed with a wireless router, allowing the use of PC Tablets and
Laptops. At first blush, this sounds like a good idea. My experience
reveals that hard-wired networks are preferable.
At first, when we employed a wireless network with Laptops or PC tablets in our
physical therapy group we were all excited. After the second tablet
was dropped, we were reluctant to proceed with the laptop/tablet trial. We
persisted using the wireless network hoping that we would gain efficiency.
Sadly, we discovered that a wireless system reduced our efficiency.
When the third computer fell off of the treatment table, we returned to
our hard-wired network.
One reason the wireless network reduced productivity is that when moving
between treatment rooms it is easy to forget where the tablet/laptop was last
located. This misplacement of the tablet may seem small but when it occurs
during peak treatment times the lack of ergonomic ease becomes apparent.
Stated more clearly, when all the treatrooms are full, the last thing you need
to think about is, "Where did I leave that computer."
Another reason the wireless system reduced efficiency is it was more difficult
to manage the clinical enviornment. Managing the clinical area is an
important component of successful operations. When documentation is
performed on a wireless network, therapists will often be tucked away in a
treatment room documenting their intervention. In this tucked away setting
supervision of the treatment area is more difficult and it can lead to an
unoticed backed-up waiting room, overflowing trash cans, empty
laundry shelves, etc. With a hard-wired network the main
documentation computer station should be located in a central location that has
an easy view of the waiting room. Returning to these central stations
facilitates clinical management. In addition, it is much easier to
manage the staff with a centrally located station.
Our largest office has two PTs and four PTAs that were engaged in patient
treatment and documention. Three PT aides provide support services.
Despite this formidable staff we found that three hard wired stations in the
treatment area are more than satisfactory for documentation. We use one PC
central station, a PC in the exercise area, and a PC in the evaluation room.
The recdeptionist has their own PC as well.
For those that are considering using wireless devices in their office, please
consider the above prior to investing your equipment budget funds in laptops and
tablets, which cost much more than a PC.
Regards,
Tom Kane, PT