Davis Hospital Makes Wireless Internet Access Available To Patients

Wireless internet connection is no longer just a perk of hotels and coffee shops. Patients and visitors at Davis Hospital and Medical Center in Layton can now use their wireless-equipped laptop computers and other wireless devices to access the Internet. This new feature will allow patients and visitors to stay connected with family and friends during time at the hospital. The wireless network allows guests to check e-mails, surf the web and chat with friends and family on their personal laptop computers.

The system is separate from the Hospital's computer network to ensure privacy and security. There is no cost to access the wireless network.

"Our patient population has become more computer literate," says Michael Jensen, CEO at Davis Hospital. Jensen says there is a national trend to add wireless networks at hospitals for patient and visitor use. "The network meets a growing need for patients and families who use the Internet for communication, work and entertainment. With Internet access, they can stay connected and productive even when they are in the hospital."

Jensen emphasized that the public wireless network does not allow access to the Hospital's separate and secure network. "This is a completely different system and there is no possibility of access into patient records and other sensitive files."

The primary goal of the new feature is to enhance the visitor and patient experience.

"This free Internet service allows our patients and family members to snap a photo of their new baby, for example, and e-mail it to friends and family, surf the Web for medical reference material, or stay productive and connected to their offices through e-mail." said Jensen.

The new service is available in all patient rooms, the dining area, and all patient waiting areas throughout Davis Hospital.