PATLITE's compact indictor light "NE-USB" is widely used across various industries as an easy-to-use indoor signaling device for stores, facilities, and other environments. In Thailand, it has already been implemented in a hospital, where it enhances convenience for both patients and hospital staff. In this article, we present a case study on how small indicator light NE-USB is utilized alongside kiosk terminals in a hospital.
A kiosk terminal is a self-service, freestanding information device commonly found in stores and public facilities.
At this hospital, multiple terminals have been installed, allowing patients to independently register their information during check-in, eliminating the need to wait in line at the reception desk.
Before the installation of the terminals, the check-in process was complex and time-consuming.
This led to increased congestion within the hospital, inconveniencing patients and their families while also adding to the staff’s workload.
Additionally, long wait times caused overcrowded waiting areas, raising concerns about the potential spread of infections.
To address these issues, kiosk terminals were installed. Each terminal is equipped with a PATLITE indicator light, allowing users to quickly identify availability at a glance based on the light's color.
By utilizing kiosk terminals, administrative tasks such as patient registration and appointment scheduling can be handled more efficiently. In fact, a significant difference was observed when comparing the time required for reception tasks between staffed counters and kiosk terminals.
■ When Using Kiosk Terminals
Patients can check in for their consultation and register their information by operating a touchscreen panel.
Average time required: Approximately 2 to 5 minutes
■ When Using Staffed Counters
Hospital staff register patient information at a dedicated counter. Depending on the level of congestion, patients may need to wait in line.
Average time required: 5 to 10 minutes (approximately 15 minutes for new patients)
The use of kiosk terminals has proven to be highly effective in reducing administrative procedure times within the hospital. By significantly decreasing the time patients spend waiting in line at the counter, both the hospital’s service level and patient satisfaction are improved.
Additionally, integrating the NE-USB indicator light enhances communication of the terminals’ usage status to both patients and support staff, further helping to alleviate congestion within the hospital.