Digital signs have long been a feature of many public places like airports, stations and shopping centres; now they are being used in the healthcare industry.

Information can be a static display, with for instance, a welcome message, or a continuous loop of text and pictures. Digital signage in the healthcare industry can be used in many more ways than this. A highly visible screen showing current waiting times and other such information is very useful for staff and patients alike. In the past, staff couldn’t make a report before completion of a procedure; now, automatic logging of the information displayed allows instant analysis of workflow. In a real sense the report is created as the various events occur.

People naturally find digital screens far more pleasing to the eye than badly written whiteboards or posters. Their ability to grab and hold attention can be used to the full. Of course, the screen layout has to be carefully thought about, as too much information is more liable to confuse than inform. The rule is: keep it simple. After all, the job of digital signage displays in the healthcare industry is not to advertise or entertain, but to provide vital, real-time information.

Staff will benefit from the use of an integrated system. For instance, a scanner can read the barcode on a patient’s wristband as they go into the operating theatre, giving information to staff outside the theatre. Temperature, humidity and other environmental readings can be automatically displayed on LCD screens, making it simple for staff to monitor activity around the clinic or hospital.

Frequently asked questions about directions and waiting times are responsible for taking up much of the staff’s time. An integrated digital signage system can answer these questions automatically, freeing up staff to carry out the job they are supposed to be doing. This, in turn, can only have positive benefits for the wellbeing of patients. Linking of the system to other hospitals and clinics is, of course, not a problem. Such simple information sharing between different teams and buildings makes workflow much easier. By looking at the LCD display screen in front of you, all the information you need for effective patient care is available without the need to ask questions by phone, email or memo.

Gaining people’s attention during the present cash-strapped times has forced advertisers to use the most effective means available. Advertisements on digital screens in visitor or patient waiting areas is the best way of reaching a captive audience. Advertisements, alternating with patient-focused information, provide a service to patients and visitors while simultaneously providing a revenue stream for the hospital, clinic or nursing home.

Wouldn’t it be great to know exactly how long you have to wait until it’s your turn to see the doctor?