A wireless communications company based at Coventry University has developed a new satellite tracking device to improve patient transport.
T@lecom, which moved into the university's Enterprise Centre three years ago, has teamed up with the Coventry and Warwickshire Ambulance NHS Trust to produce technology that supplies better quality data on the movement of patients.
Unlike previous systems used by the NHS, T@lecom's Wireless Delivered provides a continuous line of communication between control centres and drivers.
"Our system allows drivers using hand-held devices to log the time they arrive at a patient's house, the time they leave and the time they deliver the patient to their destination," T@lecom operations director Gordon Younie said. "The biggest advantage is having live feedback on their status coupled with automatic satellite navigation which prevents delays and wasted time."
The Coventry and Warwickshire Ambulance NHS Trust has already noticed an increase in productivity levels.
"Because control rooms can see exactly where their vehicle fleet is, they can arrange emergency patient transfer at a moment's notice," Mr Younie said. "There is no paperwork involved and no need for mobile phone or radio despatching."
Facilities at the Technology Park, managed by Coventry University Enterprises, have aided T@ lecom's steady progress since it formed in 2002.
"When we invite potential customers to the Enterprise Centre, they are impressed by its professional look and feel," Mr Younie said. "It has helped us secure thousands of pounds worth of new business."
The on-site Creativity Lab is proving a real hit.
He said: "Being able to work in this environment makes such a difference when you are just starting out."
