A new type of technology at Abbotsford Regional Hospital (ARH) has changed the way that care teams communicate with one another.
The Vocera technology is a wearable, voice-driven device – called a “badge” – that enables workers to connect with others completely hands-free. They can ask for help, request supplies and access information without having to leave the bedside or remove personal protective equipment.
Julie Dhaliwal, ARH director of clinical operations, said it became clear during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic that the hospital needed to speed up communication.
She said the new system allows for in-the-moment planning, calls for support to other team members and “overall increased efficiency.”
“Our team members have immediately noticed the value in their day-to-day work, and we couldn’t be more appreciative to have received this through the generous donations from our communities to support health-care teams to take care of patients and families,” Dhaliwal said.
The technology is among the equipment that is possible through donations to the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation.
The foundation raises money for equipment and programs funded or endorsed by Fraser Health in Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz and Harrison Hot Springs.
Contact Dr. Jassal at 778-552-5117 or at Lakhbir.Jassal@fraserhealth.ca for more information on how to support projects in local communities.
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