Potential Applications of RFID Technology in Medicine.

Fontelo P, Liu F, Ackerman MJ

Telemed J E Health. 2007 Apr;13(2):176-7.

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Abstract:

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) wireless data technology has enormous potential use in medical care. We conducted experiments on possible applications in patient care and medical record tracking, medication delivery, and patient specimen identification. With RFID technology, an electronic tag can store patients' information, diagnosis, treatment, and other ancillary information. These can be accessed instantly within the medical treatment facility. Paper-based records could also be tagged with corresponding information. This will allow easy location within the hospital anytime. Tagged medicine containers can assist nursing care personnel in the timely and accurate delivery of medication that may reduce human errors. These can be done through patient-specific tags in medication containers and handheld RFID readers. RFID tags on specimens could provide accurate patient identification that can follow the patient from admission, surgery and pathology laboratory that may minimize specimen mix-ups. These applications were developed in accordance with the FDA's recommendations for implantable RFID medical devices by addressing issues of confidentiality, integrity, availability and accountability. RFID tags will only contain encrypted patient information, and only authorized RFID readers can read and display patient information. We expect that RFID will find extensive use in hospitals, healthcare centers and centers for elderly care in the future.

Fontelo P, Liu F, Ackerman MJ. Potential Applications of RFID Technology in Medicine. 
Telemed J E Health. 2007 Apr;13(2):176-7.