The use of RFID in medical equipment also is invaluable in tracking devices over the product lifecycle. With the integration of RFID, OEMs can track device utilization and prevent devices from being used beyond their end of life (EOL) stage by implementing a device EOL protocol, allowing more efficient lifecycle management while minimizing human error.
How RFID is Used for Medical Device Authentication and Calibration
With medical device authentication and calibration, RFID “parent and child pairing” systems ensure that only proper devices are used together. For example, RFID helps authenticate the correct drill bits for use with a dentist drill, or accessories with surgical tools. This not only prevents the use of EOL or counterfeit devices, it also enables automatic device calibration of parameters such as speed, torque, RPM or depth of penetration.Â
For example, with the use of RFID, a surgical device such as an arthroscopic shaver can be automatically adjusted and calibrated according to the tool that is attached to the base. This ensures that the proper torque, shaving depth or RPM is set for each procedure, saving time as well as reducing human error for improved patient outcomes.
Likewise, RFID pairing provides system authentication, making sure the right consumable goes with the proper piece of equipment. This authentication also ensures that the tool being used is compatible with the device and the specific procedures being performed, minimizing liability risk and protecting brand identity.
Why RFID is the Right Technology for Secure Authorization
Another important function of RFID is secure medical device authorization, preventing access by unauthorized users. An example of this might include using RFID with a surgical system to require a surgeon to sign in with an ID badge before using a particular surgical device.
Likewise, RFID authorization can be used with Pyxis automated medication dispensing systems and medication refrigerators, limiting access of controlled inventory items to authorized personnel only.
Medical device recalls are on the rise. In fact, between 2020-2023, recalls nearly doubled in the U.S. alone, with underlying reasons ranging from risk of diagnostic inaccuracies and faulty alarms, to product design defects and software malfunctions. RFID is critical for ensuring that unsafe devices are removed from use to safeguard patient safety and limit OEM liability risk.
