RFID or Radio Frequency Identification is a relatively new technology that is now being implemented in the hospital management setting. Initially (and most often) used in the retail market, it is a tool increasingly used for identifying and tracking items or people by placing a small memory-storage chip (tag) on the item. RFID readers (or emitters) send out radio frequency waves (3 Hz to 300 GHz) to detect tags and read data. Data pertaining to the item or the person is stored for continuous retrieval through the reader. Some of the most common uses of RFID in healthcare include:

1)    Inventory tracking in the hospital, manufacturing and other healthcare domains

2)    Pharmaceutical supply management for pharmacies or pharmaceutical distributors

3)    Employee identification in worksites

4)    Patient tracking in case of clinical trials and other medical reasons[1]

While RFID systems are being used in the healthcare sector, there have been restrictions on its use due to its interference with other critical electrical equipment used in the hospital (pacemakers, ICD’s and other critical electronic medical devices). Preliminary FDA testing has shown that some RFID emitters could potentially slow the rate of pacemakers or cause implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD’s) to deliver inappropriate shocks. Other electronic medical devices could also react inappropriately in the presence of RFID.

FDA, in collaboration with AAMI Cardiac Rhythm Management Devices EMC Task Group, conducted laboratory tests of pacemaker and ICD reactions to RFID. The devices were exposed to emissions from RFID readers at 3 different frequencies and at various distances from the devices. Preliminary findings showed inappropriate reactions in some of the devices. Reactions included inhibited pacing and inappropriate delivery of ICD therapy. Studies are being continuously conducted on the effects of RFID in the healthcare sector.[2]

All medical devices containing electronic components are prone to electromagnetic interference. The FDA requires that all electronic products undergo electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing before being marketed. These, however, get damaged or react inappropriately in the presence of larger magnitudes or proximity of electromagnetic waves.

Anyone making a decision on implementing a RFID system should wait until more regulations are set forth by the FDA and FCC. However, if the need arises to implement one, make sure additional precautions are taken including an onsite EMI testing[3]. Furthermore, addition of electronic life-supporting medical devices should be tested to be safe in an RFID environment.

By, Jerin George Mathew

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[1] http://www.ups-scs.com/solutions/white_papers/wp_RFID_in_healthcare.pdf

[2] http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationSafety/ElectromagneticCompatibilityEMC/ucm116647.htm

[3] http://www.rfidjournal.com/article/print/4166