Medical Device Configurator for Streamlined Ordering
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional process for configuring and ordering medical devices, such as prostheses and orthotics, is inefficient and time-consuming, relying on manual input and requiring extensive technical knowledge of components, which limits flexibility and can result in errors or incomplete orders.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based system that allows practitioners to configure medical devices based on minimal patient-specific information, providing ranked options for major components and enabling customization, while integrating with patient management and billing systems to reduce redundant data entry and improve inventory management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a practitioner uses conventional manual processes to configure and order medical device components, then they can select components based on detailed patient assessment, but the process becomes highly time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables practitioners to independently configure complete medical device systems using patient-specific parameters without requiring extensive knowledge of component compatibility matrices. The configurator automatically handles component selection and compatibility verification, allowing practitioners to focus on patient assessment rather than technical component selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The medical device configurator acts as an intermediary between patient assessment data and component selection. It translates patient-specific parameters (weight, height, activity level, residual limb characteristics) into appropriate component specifications, eliminating the need for practitioners to manually cross-reference multiple catalogs and compatibility guides.
2Loss of information
If a practitioner manually looks up component prices and calculates totals using printed catalogs and order forms, then they can determine component costs, but they cannot determine actual shipping costs and the price determination is only an estimate
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges component selection, pricing, and ordering functions into a single integrated workflow. When practitioners configure a medical device system, the total cost including shipping is automatically calculated and displayed, eliminating the need for separate price lookups and manual calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback on total costs including shipping during the configuration process. Practitioners can see the complete cost breakdown as they select components, allowing for real-time budget assessment and informed decision-making before placing the order.
3Ease of operation
If a practitioner uses printed catalogs and ordering guidelines to select components, then they can follow structured selection criteria, but the process requires extensive technical knowledge and is prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical processes (flipping through catalogs, writing down part numbers, cross-referencing guidelines) with an automated computer-based configurator. The software automatically retrieves component information, verifies compatibility, and generates orders, eliminating human errors in transcription and calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the entire ordering process, allowing practitioners to review and verify component selections before finalizing the order. The configurator generates a complete specification list that can be reviewed and corrected if needed, providing a safety check against ordering errors.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a practitioner places orders by phone or facsimile, then they can communicate with manufacturers and distributors, but checking order status requires multiple phone calls to manufacturers and shippers
Solution Approach 1:
The configurator system serves multiple functions: configuring medical device systems, calculating costs, generating orders, and tracking order status. The system interfaces with manufacturers and shippers to provide centralized order management, allowing practitioners to check the status of both component orders and shipments through a single platform.
5Productivity
If a practitioner maintains inventory of medical device components, then they can fulfill orders quickly, but it is unlikely that inventory will be sufficient to fully configure any particular medical device given the numerous variations
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows practitioners to maintain a core inventory of commonly needed components for immediate fulfillment, while using the configurator to order additional components as needed. The software identifies which components are in stock and which need to be ordered, allowing partial fulfillment without requiring complete inventory of all possible component variations.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method, and computer program product for configuring a medical device. A personal data assistant is used by a practitioner to gather patient information. Patient information is transferred to a server, and three optional medical devices are configured as a “good,”“better,” and “best” alternative. One of the proposed options is selected customized by the practitioner prior to ordering. Order status may be obtained online, and historical patient and order information is maintained. A catalog of medical device components is also provided, the catalog items are either ordered “as is” or are customized through the customizer prior to ordering.