More hospitals using fingerprint scans for patient ID
To identify patients, some hospitals are exploring the use of biometric technology – specifically fingerprint recognition. The approach has both benefits and drawbacks. Biometric technology is growing in popularity. At first, it was only seen in sci-fi movies. But now, this technology is common in several aspects of modern life.
For example, many companies use biometric timekeeping systems for payroll purposes. And some of the newest smartphones come equipped with the ability to identify users based on their fingerprints.
Now hospitals are jumping on the bandwagon, too.
Reasons for trend
In the absence of a national healthcare identifier, which is used in many other countries to distinguish patients from each other, hospitals are scrambling to find an easier way to identify their patients.
It's especially confusing to keep track of patients when they have multiple last names or change residences frequently.
To make identifying patients easier, facilities have started partnering with companies specializing in biometric fingerprint identity recognition. Specifically,  SafeChx, a system designed for the healthcare industry.
Continuing ready