InCor Improves Asset Management with Zebra RFID

Zebra Technologies announced that Instituto do Coração (InCor) has deployed Zebra’s radio frequency identification (RFID) solutions to improve inventory visibility, enhance staff productivity and reduce asset loss.

Based in Sao Paulo, InCor is the largest cardiology hospital in Latin America and Brazil and was recognized by Newsweek as one of the world’s best specialized cardiology hospitals. After deploying Zebra’s RFID FX7500 and MC3300xR readers, along with Zebra AN510 and AN480  antennas, the hospital accelerated operations, improved asset utilization and better tracking of asset inventory, especially wheelchairs.

“Efficiency and visibility are critical for providing the best patient care. We cannot afford to waste time searching for medical assets or wheelchairs which are among our most utilized resources,” said Vanessa Santos Sallai, nursing manager, InCor. “By implementing Zebra’s RFID solutions, we have enhanced inventory traceability to improve asset control, prevent loss and benefit our patients with limited mobility.”

To improve the tracking of wheelchairs within the hospital, passive RFID readers were installed in areas that serve as gateways between zones. This enables InCor to monitor the movement and location of each asset, including whether they entered or exited the hospital. Also, the RFID handhelds are used to expedite inventory counting, allowing staff to focus more time on patient care.
As the adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) accelerates, more sophisticated technologies like RFID and real-time location systems (RTLS) are rising to the top of hospitals’ wish lists.

According to Zebra’s Healthcare Vision Study, 60% of decision-makers and 55% of clinicians rank improving supply chain transparency among their top five challenges. Also, 83% of hospital decision-makers consider RFID a transformational technology.

“Zebra helps healthcare organizations capture the real-time location and status of critical resources and equipment across healthcare environments, leading to improved insights for more confident decision-making,” said Vanderlei Ferreira, VP and GM, Zebra Technologies Brazil. “Our work with InCor and 4Next ID highlights how RFID helps clinics and hospitals improve operational visibility, enhance productivity and elevate the quality of care.”