Ten Questions With …
Phil Raymond · Biomedical Instrumentation & Technology · 2014
As a technologist with an engineering degree, I've found wireless communications to include challenges in radio frequency as well as data communications. When you add in the virtuous nature of healthcare delivery, you have not only an exciting challenge in the technology arena, but also the opportunity to improve patient care.Slowly, yes. However, I have found that professionals at healthcare delivery organizations need more education about a number of wireless topics—ranging from the technology behind wireless connectivity to the implications of operating medical devices and systems on their networks.Not enough are approaching wireless connectivity from a risk management standpoint. While you don't have to use risk management as a means of enabling a safe and effective wireless network, it provides a solid foundation and a pathway. Many believe that the standard IEC 80001-1 is too costly to implement, but the answer is to apply the concepts that meet the needs of a specific healthcare organization. One size does not fit all.When you want to bring about change in technologies used by a variety of stakeholders, you start with standards, as they look to stay above competitive differences and allow for interoperability.The opportunity to create and share best practices and have a positive impact on enterprise networks. More importantly, it is having the opportunity to bring about positive outcomes for clinical users, patients, and their families.Staying abreast of evolving technology in terms of complexity and market/industry adoption.People telling me I can't do something—nothing like the motivation to prove naysayers wrong!I have many, from graduating from Georgia Tech with my engineering degree, to the humbleness of being considered a subject matter expert in areas of wireless connectivity in healthcare.Generating actionable content to help healthcare delivery organizations in creating wireless medical IT networks, including developing best practices for wireless network design and management, and benchmarking test plans for onboarding wireless devices onto the hospital's wireless local area network.My family loves the Boston Bruins, so I watch the games with my girls. I'm also a geek who enjoys digital video and photography. All of the technology in the house sometimes drives my family nuts!