Whipsaw

Design Revolution: Mobility
Intel Mobile Clinical Assistant (MCA)

By: Diana Murphy

designer: Whipsaw, Inc.
other partners/celients/producers:
Intel Corp., Motion Computing
geographical implementation/market/availability:
Global, via dealers including Motion Computing, Pansonic,
and Philips FIMI
status: Limited distribution
price: $2,199
website: www.intel.com

Bringing vital medical information to the point of care, the intel MCA is a portable computer platform that stores, processes, and organizes patient data. Since 2004 Intel has conducted in-depth user-based research, working with healthcare professionals and analyzing ethnographic research and workflow studies to provide new product offerings that would increase the productivity of high-pressure medical environments. A direct result of this focus, the MCA combines wireless networking for sending and receiving electronic medical records, an integrated digital camera for on-site documentation, and a barcode scanner for use on IV bags and medication bottles to avoid errors in dispensing. Unlike conventional laptop computers, the MCA uses situation-specific software tailored to the needs of both the patient and healthcare provider that can be easily used at the moment care is delivered.

The product, which is currently employed in hospitals worldwide, is lightweight and has a clipboard-like shape and integrated handle, making it easy to carry. Its rugged casing is durable and resistant to spills. In work environments where interruptions are common and details can get lost, the MCA supports the five “rights” of patient care: right patient, right time, right medication, right dosage, and right route. Above all it is a central conduit to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and productivity within the high-stress environment of a clinic, emergency room, or hospital ward.