And it's all right there at their bedside and on the screen. Television has long been a fixture in hospital rooms, but its scope was largely limited to entertainment programming. Today, advancing data networks, web-based applications and multi-media content are turning TVs into virtual portals. They not only connect patients to a wide range of entertainment options, but to educational content, the internet, hospital services, health care personnel, and more.

Patients who know more, do better

Studies show that educated, informed patients who are encouraged to become active participants in their care tend to have better outcomes. Comprehensive interactive networks can guide in-patients through daily events in their care plan, while providing specialized information on the treatment of their conditions.

Patients who are well-informed during their hospital stays may also be better prepared to manage their condition after discharge and to complete successful recovery at home.

On-demand connectivity increases satisfaction

New approaches to interactive care offer in-patients the opportunity to exert a measure of control over their environment, linking them to support tools, resources and members of their care team.

Interactive networks allow patients to deliver real-time feedback, such as pain assessment to care givers, and to check scheduling for medical treatments, procedures or other elements of their care. Making menu selections and scheduling meal service within the parameters of their care plan is just a mouse click away for many in- patients.

Interactive platform delivers Web access, entertainment options

Even patients who enjoy frequent contact with family and friends during hospital stays report that access to the outside world eases feelings of isolation, boredom and anxiety.

Easy-to-use menus of movies, television programming, health education videos, and on-line games help keep patients engaged. Web and email access at their fingertips allows real-time communication with family, friends and health care professionals.

High patient satisfaction sharpens competitive edge

Hospitals today operate in an increasingly competitive environment. State-of-the-art facilities, the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies, plus the best and brightest health care professionals continue to rank with patients and attract referrals. But health care organizations are increasingly focused on patient satisfaction to build and keep competitive advantage.

The most successful organizations are moving now to integrate new technologies, infrastructure and software applications to deliver individualized care, to maximize utilization of staff and to gain operational efficiencies. There's a brave new world of interactive solutions out there, and it's poised to revolutionize patient care at bedside.

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