Connect Plus PoC Platform & RugGear RG360 - A Case-Study

Released On 16th Apr 2024

Enhancing Efficiency and Communication in Various Departments of an NHS Hospital

This case study explores the successful implementation of Connect Plus, a PoC solution from RadioTrader, within a National Health Service hospital. The solution has been implemented across multiple departments in the hospital, including security, domestic, and emergency teams.

Connect Plus revolutionises communication and improves operational efficiency by providing a unified platform for seamless communication. This case study highlights the benefits and outcomes achieved by the hospital through the adoption of Connect Plus.

Challenges at a glance

• Limited communication range - Traditional two-way radios had limited range, resulting in communication gaps and delayed responses, particularly in areas with poor reception.
• Expensive infrastructure costs - To achieve site-wide communication in hte hospital, the traditional radio system required multiple repeaters and antennas, increasing costs and labour.
• Ability to connect with other hospitals - The hospital wanted to enhance their radio system further down the line and bring in other hospitals in the area, again requiring more infrastructure at other sites and time spent linking systems together.

Why Connect Plus?

In a fast-paced healthcare environment, secure and effective communication and coordination among different departments are crucial for ensuring patient safety and efficient operations. Recognising this need, the NHS hospital sought a solution to enhance communication and streamline workflows in the multiple departments.

Connect Plus, running on RugGear RG360 handheld devices, was identified as a promising solution to address these challenges.

Nationwide Push-to-Talk Coverage

The RugGear RG360 radio provides nationwide coverage, enabling seamless communication between departments and hospitals. The instant group communication and quick information exchange reduces response times and improves collaboration among staff.

Reduces Infrastructure Costs

Connect Plus operates over existing cellular networks or Wi-Fi, leveraging the hospital's infrastructure without the need for additional equipment. This eliminates the cost of purchasing, installing, and maintaining dedicated infrastructure, resulting in significant cost savings.

Scalability and Flexibility

Connect Plus can easily scale to accommodate a growing hospital or changes in communication requirements. Adding new users or making changes to the existing system typically requires minimal effort and cost, and takes minutes to apply over the air.

Implementation

The implementation of Connect Plus involved several phases, including planning, deployment, training, and evaluation. The hospital's IT team collaborated closely with the solution provider to allow the radios to also work on a secure Wi-Fi network to enhance the system. The solution was customised to meet the specific requirements of each department, ensuring optimal functionality and user experience.

The result?

The implementation of the RugGear RG360 revolutionised communication in the hospital and vastly reduced expected costs of a traditional two-way radio system. By providing a unified platform for secure communication, emergency alerts, and the ability to add further features, Connect Plus significantly enhanced operational efficiency, improved collaboration, and strengthened emergency response capabilities.

The successful implementation of Connect Plus underscores its potential as a comprehensive communication solution for hospitals and similar healthcare settings, paving the way for enhanced patient care and improved outcomes.

Conclusion

The implementation of the RugGear RG360, revolutionised communication and vastly reduced expected costs of a traditional two-way radio system in a hospital or healthcare setting.

By providing a unified platform for secure communication, emergency alerts, and the ability to add further features, Connect Plus significantly enhanced operational efficiency, improved collaboration, and strengthened emergency response capabilities.

A PDF Version of this Case Study is available to download for your use.