Baycrest Centre selects Enterasys Networks' RoamAbout wireless to support mobile electronic health records

"By using Enterasys' RoamAbout for data and voice connectivity, we can simplify the platforms we support and address all of our wireless needs with one solution. Most importantly, with mobile, comprehensive EHRs, we can access critical information at the point of care, enabling us to meet client needs faster, reduce errors and identify trends and outbreaks earlier to offer a higher level of care for Baycrest clients."

Faced with the challenge of meeting new federal regulations for radio communications, as well as the need to make client records accessible to caregivers at the point of care, Baycrest found that a standards-based wireless LAN solution would help resolve both challenges. Enterasys' RoamAbout is used in laptops and PCs to support all client data and administrative and teaching functions. Future plans include adding a wireless phone system over the network.

"Today, health care institutions demand immediate access to information and resources. Baycrest Centre's new wireless LAN from Enterasys unlocks the power and flexibility required in such a dynamic environment", stated Mark Aslett, president, Enterasys Networks. "In addition to increased flexibility, Enterasys' RoamAbout enables Baycrest to increase staff productivity and build a Secure Network to protect confidential client records."

Baycrest staff uses wireless-enabled PC carts for computer physician order entry (CPOE) and bedside charting. With access to a client's EHR, Baycrest will maintain a true electronic record, which eliminates many of the problems associated with handwritten instructions.

The wireless solution also enables additional e-learning capabilities for the Centre's students and staff through Web-based training and certifications. A fully affiliated teaching institution with the University of Toronto, Baycrest Centre trains more than 900 students and interns each year. With the wireless LAN, students have the flexibility to access training materials in conference rooms and on student rounds.

Enterasys' award-winning RoamAbout solutions deliver high-performance, secure and highly manageable wireless connectivity for both indoor and outdoor enterprise environments. The Enterasys RoamAbout R2 wireless access point provides support for multiple 802.11 technologies, including 802.11a, b and g, with a dual-slot modular architecture, and offers a comprehensive set of "wired-like" features for security, management and policy enforcement.

Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care provides a range of residential, day programmes and specialized services for the elderly of the Greater Toronto Area and is a recognized leader in geriatric research. The Centre offers programmes on-site and in the home, as well as providing individuals and families with counseling, education and referrals. The Centre is a fully affiliated teaching institution with the University of Toronto. More than 200 Baycrest staff members have academic appointments at the University and other educational institutions. In addition, more than 900 students from universities, colleges, high schools and technical institutes receive educational training at Baycrest each year.

Enterasys Networks is a global provider of Business-Driven Networks for enterprise customers. Enterasys' innovative network infrastructure offerings deliver the security, productivity and adaptability benefits required by Global 2000 organisations, coupled with the industry's strongest service and support.