RTLS-based digital twins in healthcare: the trauma management case study

This study investigated the integration of Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) in hospital Digital Twins, focusing on the benefits and challenges. The research conducted a short experiment and provided practical recommendations for effectively utilizing RTLS in a Proof of Concept software. Results demonstrated that RTLS offers significant benefits, optimizing hospital operations and enhancing patient satisfaction through real-time location visibility. Integrating RTLS with electronic health records and other healthcare systems further amplifies its potential, enabling seamless data sharing and improved analytics for informed decision-making. The healthcare industry is ripe for a technological revolution, presenting a substantial opportunity for RTLS solution providers. However, two crucial concerns must be addressed: safeguarding sensitive data privacy and minimizing interference with medical devices. Healthcare facilities should adopt comprehensive privacy policies, implement strong data protection measures, and adhere to relevant regulations to ensure responsible integration of RTLS. Additionally, thorough assessments and collaboration with medical device manufacturers are necessary to minimize interference risks. To leverage the benefits of RTLS while upholding integrity and safety, empirical studies within hospital environments are crucial. These studies identify weaknesses, areas for improvement, and the strengths of RTLS technology. Data-driven evidence from these studies informs decision-making processes, facilitates guideline development, and drives continuous improvement.