March 26, 2007
Dana-Farber now providing patients and families with wireless Internet access
Dana-Farber patients and their families can now connect to the Internet right from their laptop computers within treatment areas, thanks to the implementation of wireless computer access on patient-care floors in the Dana building.
Access became available on Dana 9 and 11 last week, joining the Jimmy Fund Clinic and the Clinical Research Center, where the project was launched after being successfully piloted for a year. Dana 1 and 10 are slated to go live next week, with the final step being the wiring of the Dana lobby by Sept. 30.
"Anything we can do to improve the experience of our patients and their families while at Dana-Farber is a good thing," says Chief Medical Officer Lawrence Shulman, MD. "Many of our patients are here for long periods of time, receiving complex chemotherapy, transfusions, or other procedures. Having wireless access allows them to work, check e-mail, and surf the Web. This can help make the time pass by quickly."
Each networked floor is equipped with purple signs stating: "Wireless Internet available here." Some patients can log on just as they do at home or in any other wireless setting, while others can follow several simple steps. Instruction cards are available on each floor, and for those patients who encounter problems, clinical staff members will contact Information Services. A technician will respond in person within 10 minutes.
The wireless access project is a joint venture between Dana-Farber Information Services and the Patient and Family Advisory Councils (PFACs). The councils tested the service during the pilot phase, providing feedback to the planning team.
"Wireless is a long time coming and we're thrilled that it's here," says Scott Viera, former co-chair of the Adult Patient and Family Advisory Council, and a Dana-Farber patient. "This access allows someone like me to do work while getting an infusion, making the day more productive."
