Sample testing device and medical information processing system

Abstract

To reduce downtime caused by connection setting to a network of a replacement device.SOLUTION: A specimen inspection apparatus according to an embodiment includes a communication unit, a storage unit, a reading unit, and a restore unit. The communication unit can communicate with an external storage apparatus. The storage unit stores connection information on communication setting for an own device to communicate with the external storage apparatus. The reading unit reads optical marks issued to include the connection information on the communication setting for connection to a communication network. The restore unit performs a restore that causes the storage unit to store the connection information read by the reading unit as the connection information of the own device, and causes the storage unit to store backup information of another device, which is the same type of the own device, stored in the external storage apparatus by the other device, via the communication network connected using the connection information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in the present specification and drawings are reference and medical information processing systems. [Background technology]

[0002] In clinical settings, medical staff may perform real-time clinical testing (POC Testing: POCT) at the side of subjects using simple, easily portable POC (Point of Care) devices. Examples of POC devices include small analyzers such as specimen testing devices and rapid diagnostic kits.

[0003] In this situation, a technology is known in which POC devices are configured to be able to access a cloud environment via a network, and measurement data is managed, stored, and monitored on the cloud network. For POC devices configured to be able to connect to a network, it is necessary to perform complicated connection settings for each device, for example, from the viewpoint of information security. For this reason, for example, in the event of a breakdown, the replacement POC device is also required to perform complicated connection settings, which can result in long downtime. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6411080 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings aim to solve is to reduce downtime caused by setting up a loaner device to connect to a network. However, the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings aim to solve are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be considered as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The sample testing device according to the embodiment includes a communication unit, a storage unit, a reading unit, and a restore unit. The communication unit is capable of communicating with an external storage device. The storage unit stores connection information related to communication settings for the device itself to communicate with the external storage device. The reading unit reads an optical mark issued to include connection information related to communication settings for connecting to a communication network. The restore unit stores the connection information read by the reading unit in the storage unit as the connection information of the device itself, and executes a restore to store in the storage unit backup information of the other device stored in the external storage device by the other device of the same type as the device itself via the communication network connected using the connection information. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical information processing system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a management device serving as a medical information processing device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a sample testing apparatus as a POC device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a reaction unit according to an embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining each piece of information used in the medical information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in the medical information processing system according to the embodiment at the start of operation. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in the medical information processing system according to the embodiment after the start of operation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, a sample testing 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 reference to the previously mentioned drawings will be given the same reference numerals, and will be described only if necessary. Even when the same parts are shown, the dimensions and ratios of each component may be different depending on the drawing. In addition, for example, from the viewpoint of ensuring the visibility of the drawings, reference numerals may be given only to the main components in the description of each drawing, and reference numerals may not be given to components having the same or substantially the same functions.

[0009] In clinical settings, medical staff may perform real-time clinical testing (POC Testing: POCT) at the patient's side using easily portable point-of-care (POC) devices and reagents. Examples of POC devices include small analyzers such as specimen testing devices and rapid diagnostic kits.

[0010] In this situation, for example, a technique is known in which a POC device is configured to be accessible to a cloud environment via a network, and measurement data is managed, stored, and monitored on the cloud network. In addition, for example, a technique is known in which a POC device is connected to an in-hospital network, and the history of measurement data and the like is managed by an electronic medical record via a local server on the in-hospital network. In these POC devices configured to be able to connect to a network, 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 a POC device is replaced in the event of a breakdown, complicated connection settings are also required for the substitute device, which may result in a long downtime for the POC device.

[0011] Therefore, the present embodiment discloses a sample testing device, a medical information processing device, and a medical information processing system that can reduce downtime caused by setting up a loaner device to connect to a network.

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

[0013] The management device 3 is communicatively connected to the server 5 via a telecommunication line such as the Internet. The management device 3 manages information related to the POC devices 20 in the hospital 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 an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the management device 3 has 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 communicatively 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, or a NIC (Network Interface Controller).

[0015] The input interface 32 accepts various input operations from an operator, converts the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 35. The input interface 32 accepts various input operations from the operator to various operation screens related to the substitute machine setting process on the management side, which will be described later, for example.

[0016] The display 33 displays various information. For example, the display 33 outputs a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for accepting various operations from an operator, which is generated by the processing circuit 35. The GUI for accepting various operations from an operator includes various operation screens related to the substitute device 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. In addition, for example, the memory 34 stores a program for implementing a substitute device 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, and the like, for example, by executing a management-side substitute setting program deployed in a RAM (Random Access Memory) of the memory 34.

[0019] In the acquisition function 351, the processing circuit 35 acquires information required to issue a resetting identifier from the server 5 when any POC device 20 among the multiple POC devices 20 is replaced by another POC device 20 of the same type. The information required to issue the resetting identifier includes the device ID of the POC device 20 to be replaced and 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 POC device 20 itself for connecting the POC device 20 to the hospital network 90, an IP address allocation method (information such as automatic setting such as DHCP, manual setting, etc.), a proxy, an SSID for connecting to a wireless LAN, an encryption type, and a password.

[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 the resetting identifier. In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which an optical mark indicating the resetting identifier is attached to the reaction unit 2 together with an optical mark for identifying the reaction unit 2. The processing circuit 35 also associates the device ID of the substitute POC device 20 with the device ID of the POC device 20 to be replaced, and stores them 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 information related to the substitute device setting process executed in the medical information processing system 1, as will be described in detail later. The server 5 is configured to be able to communicate with each of the management device 3 and the intra-hospital network 7 via a telecommunication line such as the Internet. For example, the server 5 is realized by a computer having a processor such as a CPU and memories such as a ROM and a RAM as hardware resources. The server 5 is an example of an external storage device.

[0024] 1, the 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 and are communicatively connected via an in-hospital network 90.

[0025] HIS10 is a system that manages information generated within a hospital. Information generated within a hospital includes patient information, test order information, and other information. Each record included in the patient information has items such as a patient ID, patient name (first and last name), age (date of birth), sex, height, weight, and blood type. Each record included in the test order information has items such as a test ID that can identify the test, a patient ID, information indicating hospitalization or outpatient care, a test code, a medical department, a type of test, a test site, and a scheduled test date and time.

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

[0027] The multiple POC devices 20 are easily portable testing devices used in real-time clinical testing (POCT) performed by medical professionals at the side of a subject. As the multiple POC devices 20, for example, small analyzers such as specimen testing devices and rapid diagnostic kits can be appropriately used.

[0028] 1 illustrates two POC devices 20a and 20b as the multiple POC devices 20, but is not limited thereto. The intra-hospital network 7 may include one or three or more POC devices 20 as the multiple POC devices 20. In the present embodiment, a case is illustrated in which each of the multiple POC devices 20 is a sample testing apparatus.

[0029] 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a sample testing device as a POC device 20 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the sample testing device as a POC device 20 has a light detection unit 22, a magnetic field generating 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 the target substance by light. The light detection unit 22 has an emission section 221, a light receiving section 222, a light source 223, and a light detector 224. The emission section 221 is an emission window, and it is sufficient that it has at least an opening. The opening may be covered with 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 an extent that absorption can be ignored. The light source 223 is, for example, 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 that is shaped to be approximately parallel by a lens or the like that is added separately through the emission section 221. The light receiving section 222 is a light receiving window, and it is sufficient that it has at least an opening. The opening may be covered with optical glass or transparent resin that is transparent to the light incident on the light receiving section 222. The photodetector 224 detects the light incident on the light receiving section 222. The photodetector 224 may be, for example, a photodiode.

[0031] The magnetic field generating circuit 23 generates a magnetic field under the control of the processing circuit 29. The magnetic field generating circuit 23 has 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 in positions facing each other across the reaction unit 2 mounted on the specimen testing device. For example, the upper magnetic field application unit is provided at a position illustrated in FIG. 3, and generates a magnetic force in a vertically upward direction relative 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 a vertically downward direction relative to the reaction unit 2.

[0032] The information acquisition circuit 24 has, for example, a reading unit 241 and an optical reader 242. The reading unit 241 is formed of, for example, optical glass or transparent resin. The optical reader 242 reads, for example, an optical mark 205 provided on a part of the lower surface of the reaction unit 2 via the reading unit 241. This allows the reaction unit 2 to be identified, and also reads the resetting identifier. As the optical mark 205, for example, a barcode or a two-dimensional code 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 between each device in the hospital, such as the HIS 10, via the in-hospital network 90. ​​The communication interface 25 also controls the transmission and communication of various data between the server 5 and the HIS 10 via a telecommunications line, such as the Internet. The communication interface 25 is realized by, for example, a network card, a network adapter, or a NIC.

[0034] The input interface 26 accepts various input operations from an operator, converts the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 29. The input interface 26 accepts various input operations from the operator to various operation screens related to a substitute device setting process on the device side, which will be described later, for example.

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

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

[0037] The annunciator 272 generates various sounds, such as a warning sound and a notification of completion of measurement, under the control of the processing circuit 29. The annunciator 272 is realized by, for example, a speaker.

[0038] The memory 28 stores various data. For example, the memory 28 stores data received from the server 5. Also, for example, the memory 28 stores information read from an optical mark attached to the reaction unit 2 by the information acquisition circuit 24. Also, for example, the memory 34 stores a program for implementing a substitute machine setting process on the device side. For example, the memory 34 stores connection information related to communication settings for the device itself to communicate with the server 5. For example, the memory 34 stores setting information related to the setting of the device itself and test data obtained by testing with the device itself. The setting information of the device itself is, for example, information related to various settings in the sample testing device, such as information on the display method of the test results in the sample testing device, language settings, sound settings, etc. Here, the memory 28 is an example of a storage unit.

[0039] The processing circuitry 29 is a processor that controls the overall operation of the sample testing apparatus. The processing circuitry 29 executes a system control function 291, a backup function 292, a restore function 293, and the like, for example, by executing a substitute device setting program on the device side that is expanded in the RAM of the memory 28.

[0040] In the system control function 291, the processing circuitry 29 is a function that controls each unit in the sample testing apparatus. For example, the processing circuitry 29 executes a test process in the sample testing apparatus based on input information input from the input interface 26. For example, the processing circuitry 29 can communicate with the server 5 and the HIS 10 via the communication interface 25. Here, the processing circuitry 29 that realizes the system control function 291 is an example of a communication unit.

[0041] In the backup function 292, the processing circuitry 29 backs up the connection information, setting information, and test data to the server 5 in association with the device ID of the device itself. The information backed up to the server 5 includes information restored by the restore function 293. The processing circuitry 29 may back up part of this information, or may further back up other information used in the sample testing device. Here, the processing circuitry 29 that realizes the backup function 292 is an example of a backup unit.

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

[0043] As each of the input interfaces 26, 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. In this embodiment, each of the input interfaces 26, 32 is not limited to those having these physical operation parts. For example, an example of each of the input interfaces 26, 32 includes an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the electrical signal to the processing circuit 35. Also, the input interfaces 26, 32 may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the main body of the sample testing device and the management device 3, respectively.

[0044] Various arbitrary displays can be appropriately used as each of the displays 271 and 33. For example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, an organic electroluminescence display (OLED), or a plasma display can be used as each of the displays 271 and 33. The displays 271 and 33 may each be a desktop type, or may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the main body of the sample testing device and the management device 3. Furthermore, one or more projectors may be used as each of the displays 271 and 33.

[0045] Each of the memories 28, 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. The storage areas of the memories 28, 34 and the memory of the server 5 may be located in the sample testing device, the management device 3 and the server 5, respectively, or may be located in an external storage device connected to each of them via a network or the like.

[0046] The term "processor" used in the above description means a circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a programmable logic device (PLD). PLDs include simple programmable logic devices (SPLD), complex programmable logic devices (CPLD), and field programmable gate arrays (FPGA). The processor realizes a function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. The memory circuit in which the program is stored is a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium. Instead of storing a program in a memory circuit, the program may be directly built into the circuit of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes a function by reading and executing the program built into the circuit. Also, instead of executing a program, a function corresponding to the program may be realized by a combination of logic circuits. In addition, each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its functions. Furthermore, multiple components in Figures 1 and 3 may be integrated into a single processor to realize its functions.

[0047] Next, the reaction unit 2 mounted on the sample testing device as the POC device 20 will be described. The reaction unit 2 may be called a test container, a reaction container, a reaction cartridge, etc. 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 has a housing 201, a transparent substrate 203, and an optical mark 205.

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

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

[0050] Here, when the reaction unit 2 is attached to the specimen testing apparatus as the POC device 20, the light emitted from the light detection unit 22 enters an 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 for attenuating the light propagating in the optical waveguide according to the amount of antigen (e.g., virus) contained in the internal reaction chamber. The optically guided light is output from the optical waveguide to the outside through the transparent substrate 203 and detected by the light detection unit 22. In this way, the specimen testing apparatus can obtain information about the antigen contained in the internal reaction chamber of the reaction unit 2 based on information about the detected light. Examples of the information about the antigen include the type, amount, and concentration of the antigen.

[0051] Thus, in the reaction unit 2 according to this embodiment, the transparent substrate 203 is provided to detect antigens such as viruses in the test liquid injected into the reaction chamber of the reaction unit 2. The optical mark 205 is provided, for example, in the reaction unit 2 to allow the issued resetting identifier 817 to be read by the specimen testing device as the POC device 20. Therefore, even in a configuration in which the optical mark 205 is written in an ID unit 2a (see FIG. 5) that imitates the shape of the reaction unit 2, the issued resetting identifier 817 can be read by the specimen testing device 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 testing device.

[0052] In other words, the cartridge for device replacement according to this embodiment is not limited to the reaction unit 2, and an ID unit 2a that does not have a configuration for antigen detection such as the transparent substrate 203 or the reaction chamber can also be used. With this configuration, the cartridge for device replacement can be simplified in configuration, thereby reducing costs.

[0053] Alternatively, by configuring the optical mark 205 to be written to the reaction unit 2, the cartridge for device replacement can also be used as a cartridge for antigen detection, so that the issued reset identifier 817 can be read by the sample testing device as the POC device 20 simply by attaching the reaction unit 2 to the sample testing device for antigen detection.

[0054] The substitute device setting process by the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment will be described in more detail below 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, the POC device 20a is assumed to be the POC device 20 to be replaced. The POC device 20b is assumed to be the alternative POC device 20. That is, in the example shown in Fig. 5, the POC device 20a is assumed to be the POC device 20 to be replaced by the same type of POC device 20b.

[0056] In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the POC device 20a and the POC device 20b, they will simply be referred to as the POC device 20. Here, the POC device 20a is an example of a first sample testing device, and the POC device 20b is an example of a second sample testing device.

[0057] In the following description, as shown in Fig. 5, an ID unit 2a that mimics the shape of the reaction unit 2 is used as a cartridge for device replacement. That is, in the following description, the specimen testing device as the POC device 20 restores communication settings and backup information by reading the optical mark 205 written in the ID unit 2a. The processes described below can be similarly realized even when the optical mark 205 is written in the reaction unit 2.

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

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

[0060] Furthermore, when the POC device 20a is connected to the hospital network 90 through the 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 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 connection information for network settings to the server 5 in association with the previous device ID 805 of the own device. Note that the backup function 292 may back up a log file indicating the occurrence status of an error, etc., to the server 5.

[0062] 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment after the start of operation. The flow in FIG. 7 includes a substitute setting process on the management side and a substitute 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 in response to the input operation of the user on the introduction side. The system control function 291 also executes an examination in response 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) in the server 5 in association with the old device ID 805, which is the device ID of the own device (S201).

[0064] In addition, the backup of each piece of information to the server 5 may be performed periodically for all information, periodically for differential information, or every time each piece of information is updated.

[0065] The management function 352 determines whether or not any of the multiple POC devices 20 is to be replaced (S202).

[0066] For example, when the call center receives a call from a user of the introduction side that the POC device 20 has broken down and the call is written to the customer information 803 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 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 that the POC device 20 is to be replaced (S202: No), the flow of FIG. 7 returns to the process of S201.

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

[0069] Furthermore, when it is determined that the POC device 20 should be replaced, the user on the management side prepares a replacement POC device 20b. The user on the management side also inputs a new device ID 815, which is the device ID of the replacement POC device 20b, to the management device 3. The new device ID 815 is associated with the management ID 801 and stored in the memory 34 (and the server 5) of the management device 3, for example, as shown in FIG. 5. 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 stored in the server 5 in association with each other.

[0071] Then, the management function 352 associates the old device ID 805 of the POC device 20a to be replaced with the new device ID 815 of the replacement 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 to which the old device ID 805 is associated.

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

[0073] Thereafter, the management user delivers the ID unit 2a in which the reset identifier 817 has been written and the replacement POC device 20b to the introduction user such as a hospital. The replacement POC device 20b may be delivered when the new device ID 815 is input to the management device 3, or may be delivered at a different time from the ID unit 2a.

[0074] When the replacement POC device 20b arrives, the user on the introduction side, such as a hospital, attaches the ID unit 2a in which the reset identifier 817 is written to the POC device 20b.

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

[0076] Furthermore, the restore function 293 sets the network connection of the substitute 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 related to communication settings for the POC device 20b to communicate with the server 5. Furthermore, when the network connection setting is completed, the restore function 293 establishes communication between the server 5 and its own device via the communication interface 25.

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

[0078] The restore function 293 can execute restore based on various information that can identify the backup data of the old device ID 805, not limited to the old device ID 805. As information that can identify the backup data of the old device ID 805, for example, the management ID 801 or the new device ID 815 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 possible to prevent the test information and user information from being downloaded unless multiple pieces of identification information match, such as a management ID and a new device ID stored in the new device, or an old device ID, a management ID, and a new device ID stored in the new device, etc. By determining whether or not to allow downloading based on multiple pieces of identification information, the risk of personal information being leaked 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 related to the setting of the own device. Also, for example, the restore function 293 acquires the test data of the POC device 20a to be replaced from the server 5, and restores the test data as the test data of the own device. After that, the flow in FIG. 7 ends.

[0081] In this way, in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment, the user on the introduction side can configure the network of the substitute POC device 20b by having the substitute POC device 20b read the resetting identifier 817. Furthermore, when the network configuration is completed, the substitute POC device 20b is connected to the server 5 on the cloud network, and can restore to itself various data backed up by the POC device 20a to be replaced, based on the old device ID 805 associated with the new device ID 815 of its own device.

[0082] This allows the user of the introducing side to use the substitute POC device 20b with the same settings as before the failure, simply by having the POC device 20b read the resetting identifier 817. The user of the introducing side can also check the test data obtained by the replacement POC device 20a before the failure.

[0083] In addition, in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment, a replacement device (POC device 20) that does not store personal information such as the patient's name and test results is sent to a customer such as a hospital. This reduces the risk of personal information leakage due to the sending of a replacement device, for example, due to the wrong sending of a replacement device.

[0084] Furthermore, in the medical information processing system 1 according to the embodiment, the substitute POC device 20b reads the connection information 807 from the optical mark 205. This eliminates the need to set data, etc. in the substitute POC device 20b, making it possible to quickly send a substitute device.

[0085] Therefore, according to the medical information processing system 1 of this embodiment, since the management user does not need to visit the hospital and individually reconfigure the network for the replacement device, it is possible to smoothly replace the POC device 20 with a replacement device when the POC device 20 breaks down. In other words, according to the medical information processing system 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to reduce downtime caused by the connection settings for the replacement device to the network.

[0086] In the above embodiment, the connection information 807 is written in the optical mark 205, but the present invention is not limited to this. The connection information 807 may be stored in the replacement device by the service center 9. In this case, the test data 813 may be downloaded after the replacement device is installed in the hospital, using the connection information 807 to the server 5, the identification information for downloading the backup information, and the password written in 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 information backed up in the server 5 by the POC device 20a to be replaced, as described above, and includes, for example, the setting information 809 and the test data 813.

[0087] In the above embodiment, all the information backed up by the POC device 20a to be replaced is restored to the alternative POC device 20b, but this is not limiting. The information to be restored to the alternative POC device 20b may be selected, for example, in response to an operation of the input interface 26 by the user on the introduction side.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the resetting identifier 817 including the old device ID 805 and the connection information 807 is exemplified, but is not limited to this. For example, the management function 352 may issue the resetting identifier 817 further including 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 embodiment, the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 is provided on the reaction unit 2 or the ID unit 2a, but the present invention is not limited to this. The optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 may be printed on a piece of paper, for example. In this case, the piece of paper on which the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 is printed may be sent from the management user to the introduction user, or electronic data of the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 may be sent from the management user to the introduction user. In this case, the introduction user may print the optical mark 205 on a piece of paper using the electronic data, and have the information acquisition circuit 24 read the piece of paper on which the optical mark 205 is printed. Here, the piece of paper is not limited to the case where paper is used as a medium, but includes, for example, a plate-shaped member formed of plastic, metal, or the like.

[0090] In addition, the user introducing the system can display electronic data of the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817 on the display of a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or tablet PC, and have the optical mark 205 displayed on the display read by the information acquisition circuit 24.

[0091] Furthermore, the POC device 20 may further include an imaging device for reading the optical mark 205 indicating the reset identifier 817, in addition to the information acquisition circuit 24. This imaging device is configured to be able to capture an image of the outside of the POC device 20, for example.

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

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

[0094] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1 Medical information processing system 2 Reaction Unit 2a ID Unit 3 Management device 5 Server 7. Intra-hospital network 9 Service Center 10 HIS 20 POC equipment 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 Intra-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 part) 352 Management function (management department) 817 Reset Identifier

Claims

1. A communication unit capable of communicating with an external storage device; a storage unit that stores connection information related to communication settings for the device itself to communicate with the external storage device; a reading unit that reads an optical mark issued so as to include connection information related to communication settings for connecting to a communication network by optically reading a mounting position at which a test container is mounted, the test container containing a test liquid including a sample to be tested and a reagent component that reacts with a target substance; a restore unit that causes the connection information read by the read unit to be stored in the storage unit as the connection information of the device itself, and executes a restore that causes backup information of the other device, which is stored in the external storage device by the other device of the same type as the device itself, to be stored in the storage unit via the communication network connected using the connection information; A sample testing device comprising:

2. The sample testing device according to claim 1 , wherein the connection information includes connection information to the external storage device in which the backup information is stored.

3. The sample testing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the connection information includes identification information and a password for downloading the backup information from the external storage device.

4. The sample testing device according to claim 1 , wherein the optical mark is issued so as to include information for uniquely identifying the other device.

5. The specimen testing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the restore unit restores the test data obtained by testing at the other device, which is included in the backup information, to the memory unit as the test data of the own device based on information for identifying the other device read by the reading unit.

6. The specimen testing apparatus of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the restore unit restores, based on information for identifying the other device read by the reading unit, setting information regarding the settings of the other device contained in the backup information to the memory unit as the setting information of the own device.

7. the optical mark is issued so as to include setting information regarding the setting of the other device that is backed up in the external storage device by the other device; The restore unit restores the setting information read by the read unit to the storage unit as the setting information of the device itself. The specimen testing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. The sample testing apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a backup unit that backs up the connection information of the sample testing apparatus itself stored in the memory unit to the external storage device.

9. The sample testing apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein the backup unit backs up the test data stored in the storage unit to the external storage device.

10. The sample testing apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the backup unit backs up setting information relating to settings of the apparatus itself stored in the storage unit to the external storage device.

11. The sample testing device according to claim 1 , wherein the reading unit reads the optical mark attached to the test container.

12. The sample testing device according to claim 1 , wherein the reading unit reads the optical mark attached to an ID unit having a shape imitating the test container.

13. The sample testing device according to claim 1 , wherein the reading unit reads the optical mark printed on a piece of paper.

14. The sample testing device according to claim 1 , wherein the reading unit reads the optical mark displayed on a screen of a mobile terminal.

15. The reading unit has an optical reader that reads the optical mark for the mounting position, The optical reader is provided at a position opposite to the mounting position of the cuvette. The specimen testing device according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. A test section having a light detection unit that detects by light a target substance contained in the test solution contained in the test container when the test container is attached to the attachment position, and further comprising a test section that obtains information regarding the target substance based on information regarding the light detected by the light detection unit; The light detection unit is provided at a position facing the mounting position of the cuvette. The specimen testing device according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A first specimen testing device that backs up the connection information for connecting to the communication network to the external storage device; a medical information processing device that issues the optical mark including the connection information and a first identifier for uniquely identifying the first sample testing device when replacing the first sample testing device; 17. The specimen testing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a second specimen testing apparatus of the same type as the first specimen testing apparatus; Including, the reading unit reads the optical mark issued by the medical image processing device; and the restoring unit restores the read connection information as a communication setting for connecting the device to the communication network. Medical information processing system.

18. Further comprising a third specimen testing device of the same type as the first specimen testing device; The third specimen testing apparatus comprises: A communication unit capable of communicating with the external storage device; a storage unit in which the connection information relating to communication settings for connecting to the communication network is stored in advance; a reading unit that reads an optical mark issued to include connection information regarding communication settings for the first specimen testing device to communicate with the external storage device, and identification information and a password for downloading backup information of the first specimen testing device stored in the external storage device by the first specimen testing device; a restore unit that executes a restore process by downloading backup information of the first sample testing apparatus via the communication network connected using the connection information stored in the storage unit and storing the backup information in the storage unit; Equipped with The medical information processing system according to claim 17.

19. The medical information processing device, an acquisition unit that acquires, when replacing the first specimen testing apparatus with the second specimen testing apparatus of the same type as the first specimen testing apparatus, the connection information and a first identifier for uniquely identifying the first specimen testing apparatus from the external storage device; a management unit that issues the optical mark including the acquired connection information and the first identifier, and associates the first identifier with a second identifier for uniquely identifying the second sample testing apparatus and stores them in the external storage device; Equipped with The medical information processing system according to claim 17 or 18.

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