FCC to consider opening new wireless spectrum for patient monitoring

Speaking at George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C. today, Julius Genachowski, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), announced that the agency will consider new rules allowing use of the wireless spectrum for Medical Body Area Network(MBAN) devices.

MBAN technology, which uses small, low-powered sensors to capture clinical information, enables monitored individuals to move around more freely without restrictions imposed by wired monitors. According to the FCC, The new spectrum allocation could provide more reliable service in high-density settings and improve patient outcomes.
Proposed access to the 2360-2400 MHzspectrum band has been a multi-industry effort intended to spur innovation. If approved, the U.S. will be the first country to allocate spectrum for the use of MBANs in hospitals, clinics, and physician offices.

I Advance Senior Care

I Advance Senior Care is the industry-leading source for practical, in-depth, business-building, and resident care information for owners, executives, administrators, and directors of nursing at assisted living communities, skilled nursing facilities, post-acute facilities, and continuing care retirement communities. The I Advance Senior Care editorial team and industry experts provide market analysis, strategic direction, policy commentary, clinical best-practices, business management, and technology breakthroughs.

I Advance Senior Care is part of the Institute for the Advancement of Senior Care and published by Plain-English Health Care.