The Customer
Belfast Trust is the largest integrated health and social care Trust in the United Kingdom.
They deliver integrated health and social care to approximately 340,000 citizens in Belfast and provide the majority of regional specialist services to all of Northern Ireland.
The Challenge
Both Belfast Royal Victoria Hospital and Belfast City Hospital had limited mobile network coverage, and the internet accessibility, which has impacted patients’ ability to be in contact with family and friends.
Implementation
Exchange Communications delivered the first in-class 5G multi-operator mobile network coverage connectivity at Belfast Royal Victoria Hospital and Belfast City Hospital.
The 5G connectivity which will boost connection and download speeds for staff, patients and visitors, and will play a crucial role in ensuring the hospital can utilise the latest state-of the-art equipment for its patients. Also, smart enable the buildings for the future.
Key Results / Benefits
Exchange Communications successfully implemented the new connectivity which provides the following benefits.
- Faster & Stronger 5G dedicated mobile phone coverage.
- Faster mobile data speeds.
- 5G Reliable wireless connectivity.
- Smart-Enables infrastructure for the future.
- Better call quality across the hospitals.
Quote
Tom Sime, CEO at Exchange Communications, said: “A good mobile connection is very important to the smooth running of a hospital, not just in terms of helping patients keep in touch with friends and family, but also keeping staff connected to patients and colleagues across the UK.
“As technology continues to advance a ‘smart’ way of thinking about the services and treatment Belfast Hospital can provide will be essential, so we are thrilled we were able to install a future-proof system that will continue to support wellness.”
Paul Duffy, IT and Telecommunications Co-Director at Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, said: “The upgrade to 5G will be a huge benefit to our clinical, nursing staff and everyone who visits the hospital and will help ensure the continued efficient running of the services on which our patients depend.
“The importance of ensuring the hospital has good 4G and 5G connectivity has become even more of a focus during the pandemic. Visiting has been restricted and patients unable to see their loved ones in person, which has meant they depend even more on digital voice and video connections to keep in touch.
“This project will help to ensure we offer the best internet speeds and connectivity we can for patients contacting their family and friends.”