Navigating Healthcare: The Transformative Impact of Digital Mapping in Hospitals and Medical Facilities
As healthcare stands poised to be one of the most significantly impacted sectors by smart technology and artificial intelligence in the coming years, it remains essential to remember that it is fundamentally about people. Whether they are medical professionals, visitors, or patients, it's crucial for healthcare facilities to help individuals move through these environments in a nonintrusive way and to locate assets when needed efficiently.
Hospitals and healthcare centres have expanded significantly over the years, resulting in increasingly complex environments. Imagine a patient already feeling stressed and anxious upon arriving at a healthcare centre for a crucial appointment. It is reported that approximately 30% of these appointments are missed for various reasons, one of which is the inability to locate the doctor's or consultant's room. This confusion could arise from a room change that morning or simply because it's the patient's first visit and they got lost. Missing a critical appointment only exacerbates their distress, a situation we can all empathise with.
This is where Living Map’s wayfinding solution can make a substantial difference. The platform empowers hospitals and healthcare centres to proactively assist visitors in navigating through these complex spaces digitally. Designed to be intuitive and accessible for everyone, the map ensures usability for all ages and abilities. Its full accessibility features mean routes can be chosen to avoid stairs, making it easier for individuals with mobility issues to get around.
The Map Management System is a standout feature, ensuring that the map remains truly dynamic and current. Changes can be made and published instantly, so if a room for an appointment is changed, the map can be updated automatically. This reduces stress and improves the overall experience. Additionally, the system captures user data, allowing hospitals to analyse what was searched for and make proactive decisions to enhance navigational efficiency.
Once the map is built, it can incorporate multiple layers, making it possible to locate assets like "crash trolleys" quickly because their locations are visible on a digital map. The opportunities with multi-layered mapping are endless, making the entire hospital or healthcare centre more accessible and easier to navigate.
Data Supporting Digital Mapping in Healthcare
Several studies and reports underscore the importance and impact of digital mapping in healthcare settings:
Missed Appointments
According to the NHS, missed hospital appointments cost the UK health service approximately £1 billion annually. Reducing these missed appointments through better navigation can result in significant cost savings.
Patient Satisfaction
A report by the National Center for Universal Design in Healthcare (NCUDH), found that patient satisfaction scores increased by 15% in hospitals that implemented digital wayfinding solutions.
Operational Efficiency
Hospitals that have adopted digital mapping report a 20% reduction in time spent by staff in locating assets, leading to more efficient use of resources and improved patient care.
Accessibility
Digital maps designed with accessibility in mind can greatly improve the experience for patients with disabilities. The American Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance for digital maps ensures that all patients can navigate the healthcare environment effectively.
By implementing Living Map’s wayfinding solution, healthcare facilities not only enhance the patient experience but also improve operational efficiency and reduce costs. The integration of smart technology in navigation is a game-changer, paving the way for more efficient, accessible, and patient-friendly healthcare environments.
Interested to find out more?
* (2018) NHS choices. Available at: www.england.nhs.uk/2018/10/nhs-to-trial-tech-to-cut-missed-appointments-and-save-up-to-20-million/ (Accessed: 03 July 2024).
* Odedra, N. (2024) The importance of patient-centric Digital Wayfinding Solutions, Digital Signage | LED Screen Suppliers and Manufacturers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Egypt. Available at: brisigns.com/the-importance-of-patient-centric-wayfinding-solutions-in-healthcare-facilities/ (Accessed: 03 July 2024).
* (2016) Operational productivity and performance in English NHS ... Available at: assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a80bdfae5274a2e87dbb8f5/Operational_productivity_A.pdf (Accessed: 03 July 2024).
* Brewer, L. (2023) Digital Maps & Accessibility, Concept3D. Available at: concept3d.com/blog/accessibility/digital-maps-accessibility/ (Accessed: 03 July 2024).
Request a demo
Experience the power of our mapping, wayfinding, and navigation technology for yourself. See how our software can enhance the customer experience in your facility.
