Specimen inspection device and medical information processing system

Abstract

To reduce downtime caused by settings of connection to a network of an alternate device.SOLUTION: A specimen inspection device according to an embodiment comprises a communication unit, a storage unit, a reading unit, and a restoration unit. The communication unit can communicate with an external storage device. The storage unit stores in advance connection information on communication settings for connecting to a communication network. The reading unit performs optical reading for a mounting position where an inspection container accommodating a suspension to be inspected is mounted, so as to read an optical mark that is issued to include connection information on communication settings for communicating with the external storage device and identification information and a password for downloading backup information in the external storage device stored by another device of the same type. The restoration unit executes restoration for causing the storage unit to store the backup information of another device via the communication network to which it is connected by using the connection information stored in the storage unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a specimen inspection apparatus and a medical information processing system.

Background Art

[0002] In a medical field, medical staff may perform real-time clinical tests (POC Testing: POCT) beside a subject using a simple POC (Point of Care) device that can be easily carried. Examples of POC devices include small analyzers such as specimen inspection apparatuses and rapid diagnostic kits.

[0003] Among these, for example, there is a technology of configuring a POC device to be accessible to a cloud environment through a network and performing management, storage, and monitoring of measurement data on a cloud network. In a POC device configured to be network-connectable, for example, from the viewpoint of information security, it is necessary to perform complicated connection settings for each device. For this reason, for example, even in an alternative POC device at the time of failure, complicated connection settings are required, and the downtime may become long.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification etc. is to reduce the downtime caused by the connection setting of an alternative machine to a network. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problems. The problems corresponding to each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be regarded as other problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The specimen inspection apparatus according to the embodiment includes a communication unit, a storage unit, a reading unit, and a restore unit. The communication unit can communicate with an external storage device. The storage unit stores in advance connection information regarding communication settings for connecting to a communication network. The reading unit reads an optical mark issued to include connection information regarding communication settings for the own device to communicate with the external storage device, and identification information and a password for downloading backup information of the other device stored in the external storage device by another device of the same type as the own device, by performing optical reading on a mounting position where an inspection container containing an inspection liquid including a sample to be inspected and a reagent component that reacts with a target substance is mounted. The restore unit executes a restore to download the backup information of the other device via the communication network connected using the connection information stored in the storage unit and store it in the storage unit.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, a specimen inspection device, a medical information processing device, and a medical information processing system according to each embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or substantially the same functions as those described above with respect to the existing drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate description will be made only when necessary. Also, even when representing the same part, there are cases where the dimensions and ratios are different from each other in the drawings. Further, for example, from the viewpoint of ensuring the visibility of the drawings, only the main components are given reference numerals in the description of each drawing, and there are cases where components having the same or substantially the same functions are not given reference numerals.

[0009] In a medical field, there are cases where medical staff perform real-time clinical tests (POC Testing: POCT) beside a subject using a simple POC (Point of Care) device and reagent that can be easily carried. Examples of POC devices include small analyzers such as specimen inspection devices and rapid diagnostic kits.

[0010] Among these, for example, there is a known technology in which a POC device is configured to be accessible to a cloud environment through a network, and measurement data is managed, stored, and monitored on a cloud network. Also, for example, there is a known technology in which a POC device is connected to a hospital network, and the history of measurement data and the like is managed by an electronic medical record via a local server on the hospital network. In these POC devices configured to be network-connectable, for example, from the viewpoint of information security, it is necessary to perform complicated connection settings for each device. For this reason, for example, when replacing a POC device at the time of failure, complicated connection settings are also required for the replacement device, and the downtime of the POC device may be prolonged.

[0011] Therefore, the present embodiment discloses a specimen inspection apparatus, a medical information processing apparatus, and a medical information processing system that can reduce downtime caused by connection settings of an alternative machine to a network.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the medical information processing system 1 includes a hospital internal network 7 and a service center 9. The service center 9 provides various services such as management, maintenance, repair, inspection, and support for the POC devices 20 of the hospital internal network 7 of each hospital to each hospital. The service center 9 includes a management device 3 and a server 5.

[0013] The management device 3 is communicably connected to the server 5 via a telecommunication line such as the Internet. The management device 3 manages information regarding the POC devices 20 of the hospital internal network 7. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management device 3 as a medical information processing device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the management device 3 includes a communication interface 31, an input interface 32, a display 33, a memory 34, and a processing circuit 35. The communication interface 31, the input interface 32, the display 33, the memory 34, and the processing circuit 35 are communicably connected via a bus or the like.

[0014] The communication interface 31 controls the transmission and communication of various data performed with the server 5. The communication interface 31 is realized by, for example, a network card, a network adapter, a NIC (Network Interface Controller), or the like.

[0015] The input interface 32 receives various input operations from an operator, converts the received input operations into electrical signals, and outputs them to the processing circuit 35. The input interface 32 receives, for example, various input operations from the operator for various operation screens related to the alternative machine setting process on the management side described later.

[0016] The display 33 displays various types of information. The display 33 outputs, for example, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from an operator, which is generated by the processing circuit 35. The GUI for receiving various operations from the operator includes various operation screens related to the alternative machine setting process on the management side.

[0017] The memory 34 stores various data. For example, the memory 34 stores data received from the server 5. Also, for example, the memory 34 stores a program or the like for realizing the alternative machine setting process on the management side.

[0018] The processing circuit 35 is a processor that controls the overall operation of the management device 3. The processing circuit 35 executes an acquisition function 351, a management function 352, etc. by executing an alternative machine setting program on the management side developed in the RAM (Random Access Memory) of the memory 34, for example.

[0019] In the acquisition function 351, when the processing circuit 35 replaces any one of the plurality of POC devices 20 with another POC device 20 of the same type, it acquires from the server 5 the information required for issuing a reset identifier. The information required for issuing a reset identifier includes the device ID of the POC device 20 to be replaced and the information backed up to the server 5 by the POC device 20 to be replaced. Here, the processing circuit 35 that realizes the acquisition function 351 is an example of an acquisition unit.

[0020] Here, the device ID is an identifier for uniquely identifying each POC device 20. Also, the connection information is information set in the POC device 20 to be replaced for establishing communication between the POC device 20 and the server 5. The connection information is at least one of information such as the IP address of the own device for connecting the POC device 20 to the in-hospital network 90, the method of allocating the IP address (information such as automatic setting like DHCP, manual setting), proxy, SSID for connecting to a wireless LAN, type of encryption, password, etc.

[0021] The connection information may also include settings such as the IP address of the connection destination, the proxy to be passed through, and the password of the connection destination.

[0022] In the management function 352, the processing circuit 35 issues an optical mark indicating a reset identifier. In the present embodiment, a case where an optical mark indicating a reset identifier is attached to the reaction unit 2 together with an optical mark for identifying the reaction unit 2 is exemplified. Further, the processing circuit 35 associates the device ID of the alternative POC device 20 with the device ID of the POC device 20 to be replaced and stores it in the server 5. Here, the processing circuit 35 that realizes the management function 352 is an example of a management unit.

[0023] The server 5 is a data server provided on a cloud network. The server 5 stores various types of information related to the alternative machine setting process executed in the medical information processing system 1, details of which will be described later. The server 5 is configured to be communicable with each of the management device 3 and the in-hospital network 7 via a telecommunication line such as the Internet. For example, the server 5 is realized by a computer having hardware resources such as a processor such as a CPU and a memory such as a ROM and a RAM. The server 5 is an example of an external storage device.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1, the in-hospital network 7 includes a hospital information system (HIS) 10 and a plurality of POC devices 20. The HIS 10 and the plurality of POC devices 20 are installed in, for example, a hospital or the like and are communicably connected via an in-hospital network 90.

[0025] HIS10 is a system for managing information generated within a hospital. The information generated within the hospital includes information such as patient information and examination order information. Each record included in the patient information has, as items, a patient ID, patient name (surname and given name), age (date of birth), gender, height, weight, and blood type, etc. Each record included in the examination order information has, as items, an examination ID that can identify the examination, a patient ID, information indicating inpatient or outpatient status, an examination code, a medical department, an examination type, an examination site, and an examination scheduled date and time, etc.

[0026] The examination ID is issued when the examination order information is input, and is, for example, an identifier for uniquely specifying the examination order information within one hospital. The patient ID is assigned to each patient and is, for example, an identifier for uniquely specifying the patient within one hospital. The examination code is, for example, an identifier for uniquely specifying the examination defined within one hospital. The medical department indicates, for example, the specialized field classification of medical treatment. Specifically, the medical departments are internal medicine and surgery, etc. The examination type indicates an examination using a medical image. For example, the examination types include X-ray examination, CT (Computed Tomography) examination, and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) examination, etc. The examination sites include the brain, kidneys, lungs, and liver, etc.

[0027] The plurality of POC devices 20 are easily portable examination devices used in real-time clinical examinations (POCT) performed by medical staff beside the subject. As the plurality of POC devices 20, for example, small analyzers such as specimen examination devices and rapid diagnostic kits can be appropriately used.

[0028] Note that FIG. 1 illustrates two POC devices 20a and 20b as the plurality of POC devices 20, but is not limited thereto. The in-hospital network 7 may have one or three or more POC devices 20 as the plurality of POC devices 20. Note that in the present embodiment, the case where each of the plurality of POC devices 20 is a specimen examination device is illustrated.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a specimen inspection apparatus as the POC device 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the specimen inspection apparatus as the POC device 20 includes a light detection unit 22, a magnetic field generation circuit 23, an information acquisition circuit 24, a communication interface 25, an input interface 26, an output interface 27, a memory 28, and a processing circuit 29.

[0030] The light detection unit 22 detects a target substance by light. The light detection unit 22 includes an emission unit 221, a light receiving unit 222, a light source 223, and a photodetector 224. The emission unit 221 is an emission window and only needs to be at least open. Note that the opening may be covered with an optical glass or resin that is transparent to the light emitted from the light source 223. Here, transparent means that light can be transmitted to such an extent that absorption can be ignored. The light source 223 is a light emitting diode such as an LED or a xenon lamp that emits light according to the control of the processing circuit 29. The light emitted from the light source 223 is emitted as a light beam shaped into a substantially parallel beam by a lens or the like separately added through the emission unit 221. The light receiving unit 222 is a light receiving window and only needs to be at least open. Note that the opening may be covered with an optical glass or transparent resin as long as it is transparent to the light incident on the light receiving unit 222. The photodetector 224 detects the light incident on the light receiving unit 222. For example, a photodiode or the like is used for the photodetector 224.

[0031] The magnetic field generation circuit 23 generates a magnetic field according to the control of the processing circuit 29. The magnetic field generation circuit 23 includes an upper magnetic field application unit and a lower magnetic field application unit. The upper magnetic field application unit and the lower magnetic field application unit are arranged at positions facing each other through the reaction unit 2 attached to the specimen inspection apparatus. For example, the upper magnetic field application unit is provided at the position illustrated in FIG. 3 and generates a magnetic force in the vertically upward direction with respect to the reaction unit 2. Also, for example, the lower magnetic field application unit is provided on the side of the light detection unit 22 with respect to the reaction unit 2 and generates a magnetic force in the vertically downward direction with respect to the reaction unit 2.

[0032] The information acquisition circuit 24 includes, for example, a reading unit 241 and an optical reader 242. The reading unit 241 is formed of, for example, optical glass, transparent resin, or the like. The optical reader 242 reads, via the reading unit 241, an optical mark 205 provided on a part of the lower surface of the reaction unit 2. Thereby, the reaction unit 2 is identified and a reset identifier is read. As the optical mark 205, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or the like can be appropriately used. Here, the information acquisition circuit 24 is an example of a reading unit.

[0033] The communication interface 25 controls the transmission and communication of various data performed via the in-hospital network 90 with each device in the hospital such as HIS10. Further, the communication interface 25 controls the transmission and communication of various data performed via a telecommunication line such as the Internet with the server 5. The communication interface 25 is realized by, for example, a network card, a network adapter, a NIC, or the like.

[0034] The input interface 26 receives various input operations from an operator, converts the received input operations into electrical signals, and outputs them to the processing circuit 29. The input interface 26 receives, for example, various input operations from the operator with respect to various operation screens related to the alternative machine setting process on the device side described later.

[0035] The output interface 27 includes a display 271 and a notifier 272.

[0036] The display 271 displays various information. The display 271 outputs, for example, a GUI or the like generated by the processing circuit 29 for receiving various operations from the operator. The GUI for receiving various operations from the operator includes various operation screens related to the alternative machine setting process on the device side.

[0037] The notifier 272 generates various sounds such as a warning sound and a measurement completion notification in accordance with the control of the processing circuit 29. The notifier 272 is realized by, for example, a speaker or the like.

[0038] The memory 28 stores various types of data. For example, the memory 28 stores the data received from the server 5. Also, for example, the memory 28 stores the information read from the optical marks attached to the reaction unit 2 by the information acquisition circuit 24. Further, for example, the memory 34 stores programs and the like for realizing the alternative machine setting process on the device side. For example, the memory 34 stores connection information regarding communication settings for the own device to communicate with the server 5. For example, the memory 34 stores the setting information regarding the setting of the own device and the inspection data obtained in the inspection by the own device. The setting information of the own device is information related to various settings in the specimen inspection device, such as information on the display method of inspection results in the specimen inspection device, language settings, sound settings, and the like. Here, the memory 28 is an example of the storage unit.

[0039] The processing circuit 29 is a processor that controls the overall operation of the specimen inspection device. The processing circuit 29 executes functions such as the system control function 291, the backup function 292, and the restore function 293 by executing, for example, the alternative machine setting program on the device side developed in the RAM of the memory 28.

[0040] In the system control function 291, the processing circuit 29 is a function that comprehensively controls each part in the specimen inspection device. For example, the processing circuit 29 executes the inspection process in the specimen inspection device based on the input information input from the input interface 26. For example, the processing circuit 29 can communicate with the server 5 and the HIS 10 through the communication interface 25. Here, the processing circuit 29 that realizes the system control function 291 is an example of the communication unit.

[0041] In the backup function 292, the processing circuit 29 backs up connection information, setting information, and inspection data to the server 5 in association with the device ID of its own device. Note that the information backed up to the server 5 includes the information restored by the restore function 293. Note that the processing circuit 29 may back up a part of these information, or may further back up other information used in the specimen inspection device. Here, the processing circuit 29 that realizes the backup function 292 is an example of a backup unit.

[0042] In the restore function 293, the processing circuit 29 establishes communication via the communication interface 25 between the server 5 and its own device based on the connection information backed up by the specimen inspection device to be replaced, which is included in the reconfiguration identifier read by the information acquisition circuit 24. Further, the processing circuit 29 acquires the setting information backed up to the server 5 by the specimen inspection device to be replaced based on the device ID of the specimen inspection device to be replaced read by the information acquisition circuit 24. Further, the processing circuit 29 applies the acquired setting information to its own device. Here, the application of the acquired setting information to its own device includes storing the setting information in the memory 28 or the like. Further, the processing circuit 29 acquires the inspection data backed up to the server 5 by the specimen inspection device to be replaced based on the device ID of the specimen inspection device to be replaced read by the information acquisition circuit 24. Further, the processing circuit 29 stores the acquired inspection data in the memory 28 or the like. Here, the processing circuit 29 that realizes the restore function 293 is an example of a restore unit.

[0043] Note that, as each of the input interfaces 26 and 32, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a switch, a button, a joystick, a touch pad, a touch panel display, etc. can be appropriately used. Note that, in the present embodiment, each of the input interfaces 26 and 32 is not limited to those having these physical operation components. For example, a processing circuit for electrical signals that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the apparatus and outputs this electrical signal to the processing circuit 35 is also included in the examples of each of the input interfaces 26 and 32. Also, each of the input interfaces 26 and 32 may be configured by a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the main bodies of the specimen inspection apparatus and the management apparatus 3, respectively.

[0044] As each of the displays 271 and 33, various arbitrary displays can be appropriately used. For example, as each of the displays 271 and 33, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, an organic electroluminescence display (OELD), or a plasma display can be used. Note that each of the displays 271 and 33 may be a desktop type, or may be configured by a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the main bodies of the specimen inspection apparatus and the management apparatus 3. Also, as each of the displays 271 and 33, one or more projectors may be used.

[0045] Each of the memories 28 and 34 and the memory of the server 5 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. Note that the storage areas of the memories 28 and 34 and the memory of the server 5 may be in the specimen inspection apparatus, the management apparatus 3, and the server 5, respectively, or may be in an external storage device connected to each of them via a network or the like.

[0046] In the above description, the term "processor" refers to a circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or programmable logic device (PLD). PLD includes simple programmable logic device (SPLD), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and field programmable gate array (FPGA). A processor realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. The memory circuit storing the program is a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium. Instead of storing the program in the memory circuit, the program may be directly incorporated into the circuit of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing the program incorporated into the circuit. Also, instead of executing the program, the function corresponding to the program may be realized by a combination of logic circuits. Each processor in the present embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, and a plurality of independent circuits may be combined to form one processor to realize its function. Further, a plurality of components in FIGS. 1 and 3 may be integrated into one processor to realize its function.

[0047] Next, the reaction unit 2 attached to the specimen inspection apparatus as the POC device 20 will be described. Note that the reaction unit 2 may be referred to as an inspection container, a reaction container, a reaction cartridge, or the like. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the reaction unit 2 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the reaction unit 2 includes a housing 201, a transparent substrate 203, and an optical mark 205.

[0048] The housing 201 is formed of a resin such as ABS, etc. The housing 201 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, for example. The housing 201 is colored black for light-shielding purposes, for example. Inside the housing 201, a reaction chamber or the like is provided into which an inspection liquid in which an aqueous solution, a reagent component, and a sample are mixed during inspection is poured. The inspection liquid may be referred to as a measurement sample or the like. Here, the reaction unit 2 is an example of an inspection container that houses an inspection liquid containing a sample to be inspected and a reagent component that reacts with a target substance.

[0049] A transparent substrate 203 and an optical mark 205 are provided on the lower surface of the housing 201. The transparent substrate 203 is formed of a material through which light can pass. The transparent substrate 203 is provided at a position facing the emission unit 221 and the light receiving unit 222 of the light detection unit 22 when the reaction unit 2 is mounted on the specimen inspection device. The optical mark 205 is provided at a position facing the reading unit 241 of the information acquisition circuit 24 when the reaction unit 2 is mounted on the specimen inspection device. Here, the reset identifier 817 (see FIG. 5) issued by the management function 352 of the management device 3 is written in the reaction unit 2 as the optical mark 205, for example.

[0050] Here, when the reaction unit 2 is mounted on the specimen inspection device as the POC device 20, the light emitted from the light detection unit 22 enters the optical waveguide provided inside the reaction unit 2 through the transparent substrate 203 and is optically guided in the optical waveguide. The reaction unit 2 has a configuration that attenuates the light propagating in the optical waveguide according to the amount of antigen (for example, virus) contained in the internal reaction chamber. The optically guided light is output to the outside through the transparent substrate 203 from the optical waveguide and is detected by the light detection unit 22. Thereby, the specimen inspection device can obtain information regarding the antigen contained in the internal reaction chamber of the reaction unit 2 based on the detected light information. Information regarding the antigen includes, for example, the type, amount, concentration, etc. of the antigen.

[0051] As described above, in the reaction unit 2 according to this embodiment, the transparent substrate 203 is provided for detecting an antigen such as a virus in the test solution injected into the reaction chamber of the reaction unit 2. Further, the optical mark 205 is provided, for example, in the reaction unit 2 to cause the issued reset identifier 817 to be read by the specimen inspection apparatus as the POC device 20. Therefore, even if the optical mark 205 is written in the ID unit 2a (see FIG. 5) that mimics the shape of the reaction unit 2, the issued reset identifier 817 can be read by the specimen inspection apparatus as the POC device 20. In this case, the optical mark 205 is provided at a position facing the reading unit 241 of the information acquisition circuit 24 when the ID unit 2a is attached to the specimen inspection apparatus.

[0052] That is, as the cartridge for device replacement according to this embodiment, not only the reaction unit 2 but also the ID unit 2a that does not have a configuration for antigen detection such as the transparent substrate 203 or the reaction chamber can be used. According to this configuration, the cartridge for device replacement can be made into a simple configuration to reduce costs.

[0053] Alternatively, according to the configuration in which the optical mark 205 is written in the reaction unit 2, the cartridge for device replacement can also be used as a cartridge for antigen detection. Therefore, by simply attaching the reaction unit 2 to the specimen inspection apparatus for antigen detection, the issued reset identifier 817 can be read by the specimen inspection apparatus as the POC device 20.

[0054] Hereinafter, the alternative machine setting process by the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0055] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining each piece of information used in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 5, assume that the POC device 20a is the POC device 20 to be replaced. Also, assume that the POC device 20b is the alternative POC device 20. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 5, assume that the POC device 20a is the POC device 20 to be replaced by the same type of POC device 20b.

[0056] In the following description, when the POC device 20a and the POC device 20b are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as the POC device 20. Here, the POC device 20a is an example of a first specimen inspection device. Also, the POC device 20b is an example of a second specimen inspection device.

[0057] In the following description, as shown in FIG. 5, an example is illustrated in which an ID unit 2a mimicking the shape of the reaction unit 2 is used as a cartridge for device replacement. That is, in the following description, the specimen inspection device as the POC device 20 executes communication setting and restoration of backup information by reading the optical mark 205 written in the ID unit 2a. Note that each process described below can be similarly realized even when the optical mark 205 is written in the reaction unit 2.

[0058] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a process at the start of operation executed in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. The flow in FIG. 6 includes an alternative device setting process on the device side.

[0059] For example, when starting the operation of the POC device 20a, a user on the management side visits a hospital or the like operating the POC device 20a, connects the POC device 20a to the in-hospital network 90, and sets the network connection of the POC device 20a for connecting to the server 5 via the in-hospital network 90 (S101). At this time, as shown in FIG. 5 for example, the old device ID 805 which is the device ID of the own device and the connection information 807 are stored in the POC device 20a. Here, the old device ID 805 is an example of a first identifier.

[0060] Also, when the POC device 20a is connected to the in-hospital network 90 through network connection settings, the backup function 292 backs up the connection information 807 of the POC device 20a to the server 5 (S102). After that, the process flow in FIG. 6 ends.

[0061] In this way, in each POC device 20, network settings are performed at the start of operation, and the backup function 292 backs up the connection information for network settings to the server 5 in association with the old device ID 805 of its own device. Note that the backup function 292 may back up a log file indicating an error occurrence status or the like to the server 5.

[0062] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the process after the start of operation, which is executed in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. The process flow in FIG. 7 includes an alternative device setting process on the management side and an alternative device setting process on the device side.

[0063] After the operation of the POC device 20a is started, the system control function 291 appropriately updates the connection information 807 and the setting information 809 according to the input operation of the user on the introduction side. Also, the system control function 291 executes an examination according to the input operation of the user on the introduction side, and stores the patient ID 811 and the examination data 813 related to each examination in the memory 28. Then, the backup function 292 backs up each piece of information (examination information (examination ID, examination result, patient ID, patient name, etc.), user setting information) to the server 5 in association with the old device ID 805 which is the device ID of its own device (S201).

[0064] Note that the backup of each piece of information to the server 5 may be executed periodically for all information, may be executed periodically for differential information, or may be executed each time each piece of information is updated.

[0065] The management function 352 determines whether to replace any one of the plurality of POC devices 20 (S202).

[0066] For example, when the call center receives a contact from the user on the introduction side stating that the POC device 20 has failed, and when the failure contact is written to the customer information 803 etc. associated with the management ID 801, the management function 352 determines to replace the POC device 20. Also, for example, when a log file indicating the error occurrence status etc. is backed up by the POC device 20, the management function 352 determines to replace the POC device 20.

[0067] When it is not determined to replace the POC device 20 (S202: No), the flow of FIG. 7 returns to the process of S201.

[0068] On the other hand, when it is determined to replace the POC device 20 (S202: Yes), the management function 352 specifies the device ID of the POC device 20 to be replaced based on, for example, the customer information 803 (S203). Here, it is assumed that the POC device 20 to be replaced is the POC device 20a. Therefore, the management function 352 specifies the old device ID 805.

[0069] Also, when it is determined to replace the POC device 20, the management-side user prepares an alternative POC device 20b. Also, the management-side user inputs the new device ID 815, which is the device ID of the alternative POC device 20b, into the management device 3. The new device ID 815 is stored in the memory 34 (and the server 5) etc. of the management device 3 in association with the management ID 801 as shown in FIG. 5, for example. Here, the new device ID 815 is an example of a second identifier.

[0070] As a result, the old device ID, the backup data of the old device, and the new device ID are associated and stored in the server 5.

[0071] Then, the management function 352 associates the old device ID 805 of the POC device 20a to be replaced and the new device ID 815 of the alternative POC device 20b and stores them in the server 5 (S204). As an example, the management function 352 further associates the new device ID 815 with the management ID 801 associated with the old device ID 805.

[0072] The management function 352 acquires from the server 5 the connection information 807 stored in the server 5 and associated with the old device ID 805 of the specified POC device 20a to be replaced. Further, the management function 352 issues a reset identifier 817 including the old device ID 805 and the connection information 807 (S205). Here, the issued reset identifier 817 is written as an optical mark 205 to the ID unit 2a.

[0073] Thereafter, the management-side user ships the ID unit 2a with the reset identifier 817 written thereon and the alternative POC device 20b to the introducing-side user such as a hospital. Note that the alternative POC device 20b may be shipped at the stage where the new device ID 815 is input to the management device 3, and may be shipped at a timing different from that of the ID unit 2a.

[0074] Also, when the alternative POC device 20b arrives, the introducing-side user such as a hospital attaches the ID unit 2a with the reset identifier 817 written thereon to the POC device 20b.

[0075] In the alternative POC device 20b, the restore function 293 reads the reset identifier 817 written as the optical mark 205 to the ID unit 2a by the information acquisition circuit 24 (S206). Here, as described above, the reset identifier 817 includes the connection information 807 regarding the communication setting for the POC device 20a to communicate with the server 5, which was backed up to the server 5 by the POC device 20a. In other words, the information acquisition circuit 24 reads the optical mark 205 including the connection information 807 regarding the communication setting for the POC device 20a to communicate with the server 5, which was backed up to the server 5 by the POC device 20a of the same type as the POC device 20b.

[0076] Further, the restore function 293 sets up the network connection of an alternative POC device 20b based on the connection information 807 of the POC device 20a to be replaced read from the optical mark 205 (S207). In other words, the restore function 293 restores the connection information 807 of the POC device 20a read by the information acquisition circuit 24 as connection information regarding the communication settings for the POC device 20b to communicate with the server 5. Further, when the setup of the network connection is completed, the restore function 293 establishes communication via the communication interface 25 between the server 5 and the own device.

[0077] In the alternative POC device 20b, the restore function 293 restores the information backed up to the server 5 by the POC device 20a to the memory 28 based on the old device ID 805 of the POC device 20a to be replaced that has been read (S208).

[0078] Note that the restore function 293 can execute the restore not only based on the old device ID 805 but also based on various information that can identify the backup data of the old device ID 805. As the information that can identify the backup data of the old device ID 805, for example, the management ID 801, the new device ID 815, etc. can be appropriately used. Here, the information that can identify the backup data of the old device ID 805 is an example of identification information.

[0079] Also, it may be arranged such that inspection information or user information cannot be downloaded unless a plurality of pieces of identification information, such as the management ID and the new device ID stored in the new device, or the old device ID, the management ID, and the new device ID stored in the new device, match. By determining the availability of downloading based on a plurality of pieces of identification information, the risk of leakage of personal information to a third party can be reduced.

[0080] For example, the restore function 293 acquires the setting information 809 of the POC device 20a to be replaced from the server 5, and restores the setting information as information regarding the settings of its own device. Also, for example, the restore function 293 acquires the inspection data of the POC device 20a to be replaced from the server 5, and restores the inspection data as the inspection data of its own device. Thereafter, the flow of FIG. 7 ends.

[0081] As described above, in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment, the user on the introduction side can set the network of the alternative POC device 20b by causing the alternative POC device 20b to read the reconfiguration identifier 817. Further, when the network setting is completed, the alternative POC device 20b is connected to the server 5 on the cloud network, and based on the old device ID 805 associated with the new device ID 815 of its own device, various data backed up by the POC device 20a to be replaced can be restored to its own device.

[0082] Thereby, the user on the introduction side can use the alternative POC device 20b with the same settings as before the failure only by causing the POC device 20b to read the reconfiguration identifier 817. Also, the user on the introduction side can confirm the inspection data obtained by the POC device 20a to be replaced before the failure.

[0083] Also, in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment, an alternative device (POC device 20) in a state where personal information such as patient name and inspection result is not stored is sent to a customer such as a hospital. Thereby, for example, the risk of personal information leakage associated with the sending of the alternative device, such as mis-sending of the alternative device, can be reduced.

[0084] Also, in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment, the alternative POC device 20b reads the connection information 807 from the optical mark 205. Thereby, since the operation of setting data and the like in the alternative POC device 20b is eliminated, it becomes possible to quickly send the alternative device.

[0085] Therefore, according to the medical information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment, since the user on the management side does not need to visit the hospital and perform network settings for the replacement device individually again, the replacement with the replacement device in case of failure of the POC device 20 can be performed smoothly. In other words, according to the medical information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment, the downtime caused by the connection setting of the replacement device to the network can be reduced.

[0086] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the method of describing the connection information 807 on the optical mark 205 has been described by way of example, but it is not limited thereto. The connection information 807 may be stored in the replacement device at the service center 9. In this case, the inspection data 813 may be downloaded after the replacement device is installed in the hospital by using the connection information 807 to the server 5, the identification information, and the password described on the optical mark 205. In other words, the optical mark 205 may be issued so as to include the connection information 807, the identification information, and the password. Here, the backup information is the information backed up to the server 5 by the POC device 20a to be replaced, and includes, for example, the setting information 809 and the inspection data 813.

[0087] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the case where all the information backed up by the POC device 20a to be replaced is restored to the alternative POC device 20b has been exemplified, but it is not limited thereto. The information restored to the alternative POC device 20b may be selected according to the operation of the input interface 26 by the user on the introduction side, for example.

[0088] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the reconfiguration identifier 817 including the old device ID 805 and the connection information 807 has been exemplified, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the management function 352 may issue a reconfiguration identifier 817 that further includes the setting information. In this case, in the alternative POC device 20b, the restore function 293 restores the read setting information 809 as the setting information of the own device.

[0089] In the above-described embodiment, the case where the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 is provided in the reaction unit 2 or the ID unit 2a has been exemplified, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 may be printed on, for example, a piece of paper. In this case, the piece of paper with the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 printed thereon may be sent from the management-side user to the introduction-side user, or the electronic data of the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 may be sent from the management-side user to the introduction-side user. In this case, the introduction-side user may print the optical mark 205 on a piece of paper using the electronic data and cause the information acquisition circuit 24 to read the piece of paper with the optical mark 205 printed thereon. Here, the piece of paper is not limited to the case where paper is used as the medium, and includes, for example, a plate-like member formed of plastic, metal, or the like.

[0090] In addition, the introduction-side user can also display the electronic data of the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 on the display of a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet PC, and cause the information acquisition circuit 24 to read the optical mark 205 displayed on the display.

[0091] Further, the POC device 20 may further include an imaging device for reading the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817, not limited to the information acquisition circuit 24. This imaging device is configured to be able to image the outside of the POC device 20, for example.

[0092] In the above-described embodiment, the case where the backup data is restored from the POC device 20a to be replaced to the alternative POC device 20b has been exemplified, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The technology according to the embodiment can also be applied to the POC device 20a initialized due to repair, for example.

[0093] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to reduce the downtime caused by the connection setting of the alternative device to the network.

[0094] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0095] 1 Medical information processing system 2 Reaction unit 2a ID unit 3 Management device 5 Server 7 In-hospital network 9 Service center 10 HIS 20 POC device 31 Communication interface 32 Input interface 33 Display 34 Memory 35 Processing circuit 24 Information acquisition circuit 25 Communication interface 26 Input interface 27 Output interface 28 Memory 29 Processing circuit 90 In-hospital network 205 Optical mark 291 System control function (communication section) 292 Backup function (backup section) 293 Restore function (restore section) 351 Acquisition function (acquisition section) 352 Management function (management section) 817 Reconfiguration identifier

Claims

1. A communication unit capable of communicating with an external storage device; A storage unit in which connection information regarding communication settings for connecting to a communication network is stored in advance; By performing an optical reading on a mounting position where an inspection container containing a sample to be inspected and a reagent component that reacts with a target substance is mounted, connection information regarding communication settings for the own device to communicate with the external storage device, and identification information and a password for downloading backup information of the other device stored in the external storage device by another device of the same type as the own device, are issued. A reading unit that reads an optical mark; A restore unit that executes a restore for downloading backup information of the other device via the communication network connected using the connection information stored in the storage unit and storing it in the storage unit; A specimen inspection device.

2. The specimen inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the optical mark is issued so as to include information for uniquely identifying the other device.

3. The restore unit restores, as inspection data of the own device, inspection data obtained by inspection on the other device included in the backup information, based on information for identifying the other device read by the reading unit, to the storage unit. The specimen inspection device according to claim 2.

4. The restore unit restores, as the setting information of the own device, setting information regarding the setting of the other device included in the backup information, based on information for identifying the other device read by the reading unit, to the storage unit. The specimen inspection device according to claim 2 or claim 3.

5. The optical mark is issued so as to include setting information regarding the setting of the other device backed up to the external storage device by the other device, The restore unit restores the setting information read by the reading unit to the storage unit as the setting information of the own device. The specimen inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The specimen inspection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a backup unit that backs up information of the own device stored in the storage unit to the external storage device.

7. The specimen inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the reading unit reads the optical mark attached to the inspection container.

8. The specimen inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the reading unit reads the optical mark attached to an ID unit having a shape imitating the inspection container.

9. The specimen inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the reading unit reads the optical mark printed on a piece of paper.

10. The specimen inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the reading unit reads the optical mark displayed on the screen of a mobile terminal.

11. The reading unit has an optical reader that reads the optical mark with respect to the mounting position, The optical reader is provided at a position facing the mounting position of the inspection container, The specimen inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. It has a light detection unit that optically detects a target substance contained in the test liquid contained in the inspection container in a state where the inspection container is mounted at the mounting position, and based on the information of the light detected by the light detection unit, it further includes an inspection unit that obtains information about the target substance, The light detection unit is provided at a position facing the mounting position of the inspection container, The specimen inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A first specimen inspection apparatus that backs up the backup information to the external storage device, When replacing the first specimen inspection apparatus, a medical information processing apparatus that issues the optical mark including connection information regarding the communication setting, a first identifier that is the identification information for uniquely identifying the first specimen inspection apparatus, and a password for downloading the backup information, A specimen inspection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, which reads the optical mark issued by the medical information processing apparatus and executes a restore for downloading the backup information backed up by the first specimen inspection apparatus as the other device from the external storage device and storing it in the storage unit, including a second specimen inspection apparatus of the same type as the first specimen inspection apparatus, Medical information processing system.

14. The medical information processing apparatus, When replacing the first specimen inspection device with the second specimen inspection device of the same type as the first specimen inspection device, an acquisition unit that acquires connection information regarding the communication setting, the first identifier, and the password from the external storage device; A management unit that issues the optical mark including the acquired connection information, the first identifier, and the password, and stores the first identifier in association with a second identifier for uniquely identifying the second specimen inspection device in the external storage device; The medical information processing system according to claim 13.

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