RFID for Efficient Medical Device Lifecycle Management
From the start of the medical device lifecycle, RFID enables OEMs to improve efficiency with automated work-in-process tracking through manufacturing, distribution and supply chain. With the ability to trace device usage throughout the lifecycle, devices requiring upgrade, retrofit or replacement can be easily identified, reducing product liability concerns and increasing patient safety. Likewise, RFID in medical devices prevents the reuse of components intended for single use, providing extra quality controls and mitigating risks.
Unlike alternative tracking technologies, RFID intelligence enhances traceability with fail-safe and efficiency features such as process workflow or compliance tasks, and automated data trails for reporting. The capability to track device utilization via RFID technology allows OEMs to implement a device end-of-life (EOL) protocol with a “kill switch” that prevents the use of devices beyond their EOL stage, enabling more efficient lifecycle management and boosting OEM profitability, while minimizing human error.
“RFID can track the number of cycles of a product, or activate an internal ‘kill switch’ to prevent the reuse of a single-use device.”
Caryn Mills, Medical Device Sales Director, U.S.A.
Why RFID is Ideal for Medical Device Lifecycle Management
Today, RFID is used to manage a wide range of medical devices that are subject to strict handling protocols, greatly improving medical device lifecycle management. For example, because RFID tags can withstand high temperatures, this technology is ideal for tracking medical devices and instruments such as dentist drill bits, surgical tools, instrument trays and diagnostic endoscopes that are regularly subjected to autoclave, steam or gamma ray sterilization.Â
RFID technology also provides secure authentication to make sure that device warranty and maintenance is provided only to authorized systems, improving quality and protecting the OEM from liability risk. Quality is further improved with the capability to trace a device or implant’s chain of custody by its unique device identifier (UDI), facilitating product recalls and vastly improving overall medical device lifecycle management.Â
Moreover, tracked devices can be easily located with the appropriate RFID scanner/reader anywhere throughout a hospital campus, warehouse or manufacturing facility, reducing lost inventory and saving money.
