• June 12, 2020

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One of the most essential and highly sought-after commodities today is connectivity. The demands of COVID-19 have further magnified its importance as many industries are facing new, time-sensitive communication complexities that are quickly transforming their operations–and are likely here to stay. While interest in private networks has already been on the rise for enhanced capacity, range, and security, COVID-19 has further propelled the desire for mid-band CBRS spectrum to the forefront of many industries. For healthcare, the power of CBRS may be a game-changer.

As many hospitals are facing additional physical capacity due to COVID-19, unconventional, temporary treatment locations have been quickly erected in response (e.g. treatment tents in parking lots, adjacent grounds, etc.). While these additional demands may be short-term, they’re fueling existing interests to deploy more flexible, scalable, critical communication environments overall. Further, for this industry, patient privacy is a must. Healthcare workers are required to operate and comply with strict HIPAA laws and patient data must be protected and secure when recorded, transmitted, or stored. For health providers, a private CBRS network could mean more efficient and simplified patient monitoring, greater transparency in equipment and device load, and better range when tracking assets across both traditional and today’s unique environments.

Monitoring

Patient care and monitoring often requires the use of specialized equipment and devices to report and communicate with the treating physicians. Many of these tools rely on bulky wires and cords, locally (in room), for connectivity. Additionally, for diagnostics (x-rays, MRIs, etc.) and procedures like surgery, patients must leave their rooms–and disconnect from monitoring devices–to receive treatment. The wireless connectivity and range of a CBRS network allows patients to remain securely connected and travel throughout a medical environment with ease and confidence, knowing their care is still being actively monitored.

Device Load

Moreover, hospital network usage is often shared among multiple users, operating needs and equipment including the devices of visitors, non-medical staff, and others on the facility’s campus. CBRS Alliance President Dave Wright, said, “Hospitals need to move more to a wireless environment, but if you are doing that in unlicensed spectrum you are trying to send heart monitors across the same spectrum guests are using.”

While many medical centers rely on Wi-Fi, that comes with limitations such as interference and congestion. A private CBRS network can offer the right bandwidth and security required of critical environments. Chris DePuy of The 650 Group explained, “Aunt Susie’s Netflix watching is not as important as ‘get the doctor in here now with a crash cart.’”

Asset Tracking

Healthcare facilities also maintain large inventories of expensive medical equipment, supplies, and highly regulated and monitored medications. As these vital items move throughout a location, sometimes across several floors or buildings, tracking their location and quantity is paramount. Some facilities have already begun using CBRS radios to specifically track the carts used to mobilize diagnostic equipment which may also transport controlled substances to patients. Juan Santiago, who leads the Ruckus CBRS business for CommScope said, “They can actually monitor that 24/7 to make sure there is no abuse.”

The value a mid-band spectrum can offer has caught the attention of other industries as well. For example, utility and energy companies are already using these private wireless networks to remotely monitor and manage substations, distribution systems, and more. Markets like transportation, retail, and education, are also showing interest in the spectrum. For these operators, CBRS means greater capacity and range with less interference on a network exclusively for their users who move throughout warehouses and campuses daily, and who also use a variety of fixed and mobile devices. Whether a 200-bed hospital, mega mall, or university, connectivity is supreme and spectrum availability is crucial. As interest in the mid-band spectrum grows, CBRS networks may be a game-changer for healthcare and others looking for private, enhanced wireless coverage.

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Sources:

www.fiercewireless.com/private-wireless/hospitals-are-starting-to-use-cbrs-networks-to-enhance-care

www.fiercewireless.com/wireless/cbrs-will-bring-change-to-energy-and-utility-industries

www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190918005528/en/JMA%E2%80%99s-XRAN%C2%AE-Private-LTE-CBRS-Solution-Powers