AIIMS Jammu Introduces Advanced Indoor Patient Navigation System

Key features of the system include real-time location tracking on user-friendly maps, ensuring easy navigation.

AIIMS Jammu recently introduced its “Indoor Patient Navigation System,” designed to ensure that patients receive guidance and support throughout their hospital visits.

The Indoor Patient Navigation System offers voice-guided navigation for visually impaired individuals, enhancing accessibility. The system calculates the most efficient routes, considering stairs and elevators, to aid patients with mobility limitations.

Dr Shakti Kumar Gupta, executive director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu, said, “This state-of-the-art technology ensures that no patient is left alone at AIIMS Jammu, providing guidance at every step. Our effort is that every patient’s journey through our corridors is not just seamless but infused with comfort and assurance. This technology allows patients to concentrate on their health and well-being without the stress of getting lost or being late for appointments.”

Key Features

Dr Gupta highlighted several key features of the system, including real-time location tracking on user-friendly maps, which ensures patients can navigate the hospital without getting lost.

Further, patients receive detailed directions to departments, wards, and facilities, reducing the need to ask staff for assistance. Moreover, the system displays information about nearby amenities such as restrooms, cafeterias, and waiting areas, aiding in better visit planning.

“The launch of the ‘Indoor Navigation System’ marks a significant step forward for AIIMS Jammu. By embracing cutting-edge technology, the institute is creating a more patient-centered and efficient healthcare environment, paving the way for a healthier future for all. AIIMS Jammu proudly leads as the first AIIMS to offer this facility for its patients,” added Dr Gupta.

Technical Specifications & Development

The Indoor Navigation System supports both Android and iOS smartphones to ensure accessibility for all. Developed in collaboration with IIT Delhi, it functions like a GPS for indoor environments.

It uses mobile apps, internet connectivity, bluetooth, and strategically placed beacons to provide precise location tracking and real-time navigation assistance throughout the hospital.

Dr Gupta recalled his time as MS of RP Eye Centre, AIIMS Delhi, where he witnessed the challenges faced by visually impaired patients and their attendants in navigating the hospital. These challenges often lead to injuries and delays, compounding their health and mental well-being.

This experience motivated him to envision a solution such as the Indoor Patient Navigation System to enhance patient ease and safety.

Previously, in April 2023, AIIMS Delhi announced plans to launch a similar Indoor Navigation System, which would benefit both AIIMS Delhi and NIC Jhajjar, serving over 25,000 patients and caregivers daily. However, no further information has been released after that announcement.