The Application of Auto - ID Technology to Healthcare

The intelligent infrastructure proposed by the Auto-ID Center allows physical objects to communicate to one another, seamlessly through the Internet. Based on low-cost electronic tags, unique object identification numbers, common networking services and standardized protocols and languages, the proposed architecture has the potential to revolutionize the supply chain, logistics and inventory. Although its first applications are focused on supply chain management, the concept of seamlessly communicating physical objects has many applications in numerous other domains. One area where the Auto-ID technology may have immediate and considerable impact is healthcare. The ability to provide continuity of care, continuous patient monitoring, shared yet secure medical records, valid and accurate medical dosages, medical equipment tracking and improved information display and communication, are some of the opportunities provided by the proposed infrastructure. In its full implementation, the Auto-ID technology has the potential to greatly reduce costs while increasing the reliability and effectiveness of human healthcare. This paper reviews some of the basic component of the Auto-ID technology and presents potential applications and benefits to the field of healthcare. David L. Brock white paper Smart Medicine The Application of Auto-ID Technology to Healthcare Published February 1, 2002. Distribution restricted to Sponsors until May 1, 2002. MIT-AUTOID-WH-010 ©2002 Copyright 3 Smart Medicine The Application of Auto-ID Technology to Healthcare by David L. Brock Co-Director Dr. David Brock received Bachelors degrees in theoretical mathematics and mechanical engineering from MIT, and his Masters and Ph.D. degrees from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at MIT with an affiliation to the Artificial Intelligence Lab. He is currently a Principal Research Scientist in the Laboratory for Manufacturing and Productivity and Co-Director of the MIT Auto-ID Center. Dr. Brock is also the Founder of Brock Rogers Surgical, a manufacturer of robotic medical devices. Dr. Brock has worked with a number of organizations including the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, DARPA, Lockheed-Martin, Loral, BBN and Draper Laboratories. white paper