The vital role of medical computers

An eventful year for the healthcare industry

2020 has been a challenging year for all of us. The world hit by a coronavirus pandemic, something none of us could have predicted. Please spare a thought for key workers in hospitals who have had to adjust their lifestyle dramatically, and put extra working hours in to help an influx in hospital patients.

Now, something many of us may overlook is what is going on behind the scenes – with regards to hospital technology and computer systems. Computers are vital for medical environments. Imagine being on a waiting list for treatment only to find out on the day that the equipment is down and the treatment will need to be rescheduled. These platforms are vital in the role of supporting patients, and essentially, saving lives.

Medical computing requirements

Computers are used in a wide range of medical applications, which may include:

• Hospital information systems
• Data Analysis in Medicine
• Laboratories
• Computer-Assisted Decision making (CMD)
• Care of critically ill patients
• Computer-assisted therapy
• Medical imaging

Many medical computers have advanced significantly over the last few years, with access to secure and traditional cloud services. However, the most significant effect of new technology is the substantial increase in computer processing power required.

We are therefore still seeing an evident requirement for high performance and high compliant computing with local processing capability. This means hospitals are utilising new technology with a mix of both commercial and specialised platforms. The real value here is the added benefits of enhanced reliability, compliance and certification (such as EN60601-1), in what can be a challenging and demanding environment.

The broader impact on society

Health issues touch so many of us, the Captec team included, which makes our work feel more poignant and meaningful than ever amidst a global pandemic. To all those who have or are receiving treatment, my heart goes out to you, and all the individuals and companies that are helping support patients, or families and friends providing care, you have my unwavering respect.

As Rack product manager, I could not be prouder to be part of the team delivering these projects and helping make sure that the technology available can be fully utilised to give the best possible outcomes. The satisfaction I get from knowing that computer platforms I am part of designing and developing, and the positive impact they are having is immeasurable.

How Captec support the medical sector

Captec has been manufacturing a range of robust, industrial and specialist computers, for over 35 years. These include computer platforms specific to the medical sector.

To learn more, visit our healthcare computers web page.