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A warm welcome to the first issue of the Big Picture Healthcare, Airwave’s industry publication, exploring the developments, trends and insights within display-centric healthcare technology.
The healthcare tech industry is currently hurtling down the fast lane, propelled by post-pandemic digitisation, the NHS’ Global Digital Exemplar programme, and fuelled by relentlessly evolving technology. With so much going on, the curation of this publication was quite the challenge - how do we best represent our business within 32 pages?
Naturally, we can’t include everything, so have carefully chosen content that we feel (as much as possible) paints the big picture
Of course, we live in a digital world and those keen to further explore our business can do so via the QR code across the page. We invite you to scan the code, have a peek round and make yourself familiar with Airwave Healthcare.
Or better still, get in touch for a chat about your healthcare technology vision, we’d love to share it with you.
Enjoy the read...
James Grant, Editor Airwave Europe
Technology’s transformational influence on our lives is no better evidenced than the evolution of the UK’s healthcare sector, where pursuit for greater e ciency has manifested in many key developments since the turn of the millennium (and the birth of Airwave).
The widespread adoption of electronic health records has revolutionised the way providers store and access patient information. In turn, the growth of big data enables the storage and analysis of vast amounts of this information, providing valuable insights into a populations’ health.
Telemedicine has revolutionised the e ciency of (and access to) care, and artificial intelligence within healthcare applications is growing in prominence, assisting in medical diagnoses, and predicting patient outcomes.
The drive for greater e ciency is fuelled by the search for better patient outcomes, and the streamlining of processes that ultimately, will save healthcare organisations billions of pounds.
This thinking underpins the NHS Digital Exemplar (NDE), a program conceived to
support the NHS in the adoption and implementation of digital technology.
Running in parallel is the government’s Health Infrastructure Plan (HIP), a £3.7bn funding package to standardise the design of new hospitals, ensuring “sta can utilise technology, to deliver better care and empower people to manage their own health1.“
So, what does all this mean? we hear you ask… and where does Airwave fit in?
The Department of Health & Social Care fall short of expressly referring to the power of TV in their ‘A new, strategic approach to improving our hospitals and health infrastructure’ plan, instead listing genomics and AI as headline enablers in the delivery of better care.
However, with multiple studies establishing a direct link between a patient’s environment, and outcome & recovery, surely the provision of a credible TV system is critical?
According to Ofcom, Britons are addicted to TV, and spend nearly a third of their waking hours watching TV and/or video content2 - a figure likely to be greater in the captive environment of a healthcare bed.
And of course, TV isn’t just an alleviator of boredom, but a key reducer of stress and anxiety (between 60% and 90% of hospital patients exhibit emotional distress and somatization3).
All things considered, it’s di cult to understate the importance of TV’s role in the provision of an optimum patient environment.
A notion not echoed by a 2000 Act of Parliament – the ironically titled ‘Patient Power Project,’ mandating that a hospital’s television services must not be funded by taxes or the NHS. Instead, patients would bear the responsibility for the associated costs of the bedside pay TV system via a pay-to-watch delivery method (approximately £8 for a basic TV package at the time of writing).
Troubled with the ethics of supplying pay-to-watch TV services in a hospital environment, Airwave has never implemented this technology, instead developing accessible to all, free-to-watch platforms.
And we’re delighted to see our stance vindicated, as the UK veers away from payto-watch TV in hospitals. Whilst these do still exist, they’re slowly being phased out, replaced with systems that really do focus on patient power…
At a fundamental level, the implementation of free-to-watch TV platforms is a major
patient power TV experience.
However, it’s the increasing focus on OTT content (a term synonymous with streaming video on demand services such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime), that’s shifting the parameters of patient entertainment technology.
Typically implemented via a commercially certified Google Chromecast platform, enabling the casting of content from a smart device to a television display, this not only o ers a watch what you want, when you want vehicle, but essentially provides the patient with an infinite amount of content.
From a patient’s perspective, the TV turns into an entertainment platform, o ering choice, flexibility and a home-fromhome viewing experience.
So, a TV system won’t mend a broken leg, but it certainly plays a positive role in the provider’s pursuit of a better patient experience.
Especially when considering today’s TV, isn’t just a TV…
Just like the trusty smartphone, e ortlessly juggling a medley of functionality, a smart TV fulfils a series of roles, not just benefiting patient experience, but augmenting a provider’s operational e ciency.
Indeed, the multi-faceted nature of the healthcare TV system, has provoked much debate within Airwave’s o ce walls. Traditionally referred to as a ‘patient entertainment system,’ does this terminology accurately reflect all roles fulfilled?
When chatting terminology, we became embroiled in an excess of E’s as entertainment, e ciency, education,
empowerment and engagement took centre stage in the great name debate.
A well-designed healthcare TV system should embrace the E’s, integrating a diverse set of features, that go well beyond the use of the system for entertainment purposes only.
Features such as meal ordering and nursecall enhance operational e ciency, reducing burden on employees and empowering the patient. Rehabilitation plans, exercise videos and dementia support are built with education as a guiding principle, but also serve to aid operational e ciency and empower the patient.
The symbiosis between the design and e ect of the five Es is fascinating, but at the risk of elongating the episode, we need to examine the importance of a sixth E.
Evolution. One of Airwave’s fundamental principles is design for tomorrow, not today - failure to do this risks the implementation of systems that don’t stand the test of time.
This has typically necessitated an agile, proactive approach to system design –requiring ongoing training and constant dialogue with industry partners, ensuring we’re constantly in tune with tomorrow’s tech.
Adding nuance is the need to strike a balance between cutting-edge and user experience. Whilst we strive to provide state-of-the-art systems, we’ll never deliver all mouth, no trousers technology, compromising usability and accessibility. Whilst early adoption o ers wow factor, It’s often the cause of headaches.
However, perhaps the most transformational development in technology, might just hold the key for the provision of systems that are, theoretically at least, future-proof.
This allows a provider to implement features and functionality via modules, introducing certain features initially, and expanding/evolving (this might be based on user feedback or analytics) as and when required.
The modular methodology o ers a more flexible, adaptable, and sustainable approach to designing and building complex systems and products. Healthcare providers don’t need to make a single large investment decision, instead analysing a system’s usage and reacting accordingly.
The Internet of Things (IoT) shapes today’s world and via its associated benefitsimproved e ciency, increased productivity, better decision-making, data analytics –enhances the patient experience, whilst simultaneously reducing cost.
Underpinning philosophy set within the NHS Digital Exemplar and the Health Infrastructure Plan, IoT sensors help enable a smart hospital environment, building a platform for features such as intelligent lighting, temperature control, and automated equipment - that ultimately will enhance a patient’s experience.
And of course, IoT adds flexibility and longevity to the healthcare TV, which as a smart device, becomes a key part of a hospital ward’s IoT infrastructure. TVs and systems benefit from regular software updates, enhancing features, adding functionality and more excitingly, integrating with clinical applications and hospital services.
The benefits of future-proof technology are clear to see; reduced requirement to refresh or upgrade hardware decreases capital expenditure and minimises disruption for both provider and patient. New services and features can now be introduced to a TV’s feature set - as if by magic!
Make no mistake, this is revolutionary, providing not just cost e ciency, but significant operational agility. And notably, it builds a platform for start small, build big system deployment via the implementation of modular technology.
This process underpinned the development of Airwave’s MYCARE TV patient entertainment platform (see page 16).
Although cutting-edge in design, MYCARE TV is actually the product of many years’ worth of development, with much tweaking, refining, and remodelling along the way - led not just by technology advances, but an evolving remit provided by the Royal Liverpool University Hospital (see pages 10 & 11).
RLUH approached Airwave, looking for a state-of-the-art patient entertainment system that would tick boxes provided by the NHS Digital Exemplar. However, a series of build delays (amounting to 5 years) considerably influenced the parameters of the TV system’s remit.
MYCARE TV’s modular platform not only diluted the impact of these delays, but provided a compelling benefit in conjunction with RLUH’s staggered opening schedule – a process that took many months.
During this rollout, priority was understandably a orded to the implementation of clinical equipment and services; consequently, a slow, staggered deployment of MYCARE’s various modules (commencing with the delivery of a simple Freeview TV & radio service, and access to a livestream from the hospital’s chapel) was necessary, reducing disruption within the hospital, and o ering breathing space and flexibility.
Modular technology o ers scope to scale implementation up (or down) across one, or multiple sites. A system can be replicated and deployed across partner sites, particularly useful when working with multiple hospitals within a single trust.
And just as useful across the various requirements of other healthcare sectors.
Airwave also deliver TV systems to the secure accommodation sector, hospices,
and nursing & care homes. Here we see a fundamental shift from the delivering of systems designed for patients, to those built with residents in mind.
Whilst home-from-home experience TV technology should always be a priority, it assumes critical importance when TV becomes a window to the world Failure to deliver a credible system can seriously a ect the quality of life for those that call a healthcare environment ‘home.’
So, there’s no room for error and we need to get the basics right. This commences with the delivery (and maintenance of) robust, reliable and modern RF or IP infrastructure, providing as a bare minimum, crystal clear Freeview TV & radio channels.
No home-from-home experience is satisfied without the inclusion of casting functionality, tapping into the video and audio libraries of streaming APPS and providing viewing flexibility, choice, and longevity. And adding variety to the mix, features such as video calling, internet browsing and games & puzzles (sudoku, crosswords etc) o er variety and scope for longer term engagement – a requisite o ering for the immobile or bedbound.
If we’re talking about getting the basics right, we need to think carefully about the requirements of the nursing home sector and its elderly demographic. Often lacking the technical savvy to utilise features such as content casting, would it be remiss to over-spec a system? would the implementation of surplus features add unnecessary complication for the resident, and avoidable cost for the provider?
Here, we find ourselves returning to the Airwave mantra of optimum experience ahead of cutting-edge tech. Is MYCARE TV the answer? allowing a provider to implement simple, no-frills features, then introducing new modules down the line?
We think so. Of course, there are always complexities and nuances to consider – every situation is di erent and if a one size fits all TV entertainment system exists, we’ve yet to see it.
And that’s why we love TV technology. Life in the fast lane. Never a dull day. If you’d like to share the ride, we encourage you to pick up the phone to talk TVs…
Dear readers,
I am thrilled to welcome you to the very first edition of the Big Picture Healthcare. Having produced 15 editions of the Big Picture for Airwave’s hospitality arm, it’s a bit of a peculiarity to wait so long to write a healthcare version.
Perhaps we can no longer ignore the giant strides Airwave is making within healthcare technology? Not just our growing footprint within the hospital, care home and secure accommodation sectors, but progress made in the design of our compelling, new patient entertainment platform (more on this in a moment).
Naturally, external forces will always influence growth, no matter how strategically astute and robust a business is. In Airwave’s case – like so many organisations across the globe - the onset of Covid-19 has governed our recent journey.
The pandemic has undoubtedly accelerated the digitisation of the
healthcare industry, expediting digital adoption and reshaping the sector in much the same way witnessed in retail or media, over the last few years.
This excites me, especially as we’re still in the early stages of this transformation (according to the HIMSS Future of Healthcare Report, 80% of providers plan to significantly increase investment in technology and digital solutions).
Investment will feed technology advances that better serve the healthcare industry across its operations. I see the development of patient entertainment platforms as a critical component here, o ering multiple e ciencies for both patient and provider.
A key factor is the development of platforms as BYOD (bring your own device) enablers, allowing the patient to use a portable device to access his or her own content via the provider’s WiFi service. BYOD centric technology empowers the patient, unlocking the collected might of the various streaming services, and o ering a home-from-home TV experience. In turn, the provider benefits from agile technology,
Naturally, BYOD centric technology underpins our newly designed patient platform.
We call this MYCARE TV, a modular based entertainment platform, designed and built specifically for the healthcare environment.
MYCARE TV was first implemented within the Royal Liverpool University Hospital (see page 10 & 11 for more details); Liverpool’s new facility is a digital transformation leader and in line with the NHS’ Global Digital Exemplar (GDE) programme, a beacon site for the use of digital healthcare technology.
So, imagine our excitement when o ered the opportunity to implement MYCARE TV across 640 beds in this stateof-the-art building. For me, a hugely proud moment, not just a vindication of the quality of our product, but reward for the countless hours of planning, design and development by my very talented technical team.
And the best bit? MYCARE TV is completely free to watch for the patient –and in a world that champions inclusivity, so it should be! The existence of pay-towatch TV systems in UK hospitals seems so archaic. If TV is such a fundamental in our day-to-lives (see page 26 for more details), why should it be beyond the financial means of any patient?
I thank you for your continued support, and hope you find the Big Picture Healthcare interesting and thought-provoking.
DavidThe SCCI Group consists of eight UK-based companies, operating within the technical services environment.
Privately owned and headquartered in Harlow, Essex, the group’s core expertise lies in TV & media systems, satellite & fibre distribution networks, security systems, outside broadcast and fire & life safety.
Airwave was acquired by The SCCI Group in 2017. Having shared clients and worked collaboratively on projects across the UK, the acquisition consolidated the key strengths of both businesses, creating the UK’s largest systems integrator, and a go to company for screen media, digital connectivity and network services.
» TV & Media Solutions
» Security Systems
» Fibre & IRS Systems
» Telecoms
» Fire & Life Safety Systems
» Hospitality TV Systems
» IPTV
» Digital Signage
» Wifi & HSIA
» Distribution Networks
» Healthcare TV
» Patient Entertainment Systems
» IPTV
» Digital Signage
» Wifi & HSIA
» Distribution Networks
» Outside & Satellite Broadcast Services
» Live Event Transmission
» Production Facilities
» Fibre Networking
» Fibre Networking
» Financial Services
» Leasing Agreements
» Maintenance Support
450 Employees £90M Turnover
Airwave’s acquisition has substantially enhanced its service o ering.
Along with expected benefits such as greater buying power, diversified skillset and consolidated knowledge, Airwave is now able to utilise SCCI’s nationwide network of service engineers – resulting in leaner operational e ciency and faster response times1
2.5M Access Points
The concept of stronger together is especially relevant for Airwave’s portfolio of new build and refurbishment clients, who benefit from a consolidated service o ering and a single point of contact. Security systems, fibre & IRS, telecom infrastructure, fire & life safety systems and financial services complement an existing portfolio of display centric technology. 1.
14,000 Maintenance Visits per month
Airwave is deeply honoured to work with the National Health Service, delivering TV services, digital signage and patient entertainment technology to 150+ NHS hospitals across the length and breadth of the UK.
The Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust (RFL) is one of the UK’s largest trusts, delivering care to more than 1.6 million patients each year. Having pioneered research and treatments since 1828, Royal Free is a leader in the provision of targeted cancer therapies and new surgical procedures.
Operating alongside Barnet Hospital and Chase Farm Hospital, The Royal Free Private Patients Unit was established in the 1980’s and o ers a range of clinical services across multiple floors in London’s Hampstead area.
Wanting to meet the exacting expectations of a high profile, international private patient base (and dissatisfied with their incumbent provider) the RFL asked Airwave to propose a cutting-edge patient entertainment system.
Key desirables in this instance, included access to specific international (foreign language) channels and a BYOD platform.
“On this occasion, our project management expertise was as important a factor as the technology involved - we were required to carefully manage deployment of technology around patients, multiple floors and critical medical equipment.”
JesAirwave delivered a system from roof to floor incorporating a 2.4m satellite dish, IPTV headend integration, internet capability and bandwidth for WiFi services. An Otrum Mirage patient entertainment system, with commercially certified Google Chromecast, was implemented on both Samsung and Philips SMART TVs.
The system implementation included healthcare articulated wall-arms for the specific requirements of the dialysis unit.
Working with the RFL’s IT network team, Airwave ensured that clinical systems’ bandwidth requirement was not impacted by the provision of an additional broadband lease-line and internal network infrastructure to support the TV system.
Royal Free Hospital’s patient entertainment system provides a 5-star, home-fromhome TV experience for patients. Consequently, it was the obvious choice to be replicated, and commissioned within Royal Free’s brand new research centre.
Located within the hospital’s grounds, the Pears Building (a collaboration between Royal Free London and Royal Free Charity and University College London), houses the UCL’s Institute of Immunity and Transplantation. Boasting world-class research facilities in a cutting-edge environment, the Pears Building also provides a hotel-like experience for patients participating in clinical trials or attending specialist clinical services.
As an expert provider of both healthcare and hospitality TV entertainment platforms, Airwave was duly delighted to deliver a top-drawer patient entertainment system into the Pears Building’s 35 bedrooms.
Redgard, Head of Healthcare Sales, Airwave
The Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital (RMCH) is the largest children’s hospital in the UK, treating an estimated 200,000 patients a year, across 371 paediatric beds and 60 neonatal cots.
Located within Manchester’s Oxford Road Campus of hospitals, the facility is internationally recognised as a leader in childhood cancer, child & adolescent mental health, endocrinology, inherited metabolic disease, and nephrology.
As part of the hospital’s ‘Our commitment to you’ ethos, RMCH commits to providing high quality, inclusive care, that is safe, e ective, and focussed on the patient’s needs.
With this in mind, Airwave, and partner WiFi Spark, collaborated in the provision of a BYOD (bring your own device) technology system, implemented within two recently refurbished wards.
In line with the UK’s proliferation of smart devices, and rapid growth of streaming services (such as BBC iPlayer, YouTube & Netflix), RMCH were keen to o er a vehicle for patients to use their own devices to access on-demand content.
This not only reduces the requirement for in-ward hardware, such as TV displays, TV arms and remote control holders, but
o ers patients additional flexibility, and a more modern entertainment experience.
The Spark Media entertainment platform, delivers TV, radio and a portfolio of services, via a branded interface to any WiFi enabled device.
The platform o ers a multitude of features, ranging from the delivery of TV & radio services (via an IPTV network), to video calling and PAS / HL7 integration. A hospital can upgrade (or downgrade) the feature list as and when required. This not only provides operational agility and flexibility, but future-proofs the technology.
RMCH opted for a TV & radio service package, delivering 35 channels to each smart device. The service runs on the Trust’s WiFi, and also provides a branded user portal, a browser, and direct links to the Manchester Foundation Trust’s charity website.
In accordance with the hospital’s equality, diversity and inclusion commitment, Airwave provided 6 x Samsung SM-T500 tablets, pre-loaded with Spark Media and available for any patient that arrives without a smart device.
Hillingdon Hospital is an NHS hospital, situated in Pield Heath Road, Greater London.
Part of the Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, the hospital is an acute and specialist services provider, running a busy accident & emergency department, maternity services, and inpatient & outpatient clinics.
In conjunction with sweeping refurbishment plans, a new 2,400 sq m modular extension was built in the grounds of the hospital. The 3-storey build has created a host of additional services, and holds 70 bed spaces set across 3 wards.
Airwave was delighted to be invited, via the NHS SBS procurement framework, to design and build a Freeview TV system across the hospital’s new wards.
This required lateral thinking on Airwave’s part, due to the positioning and structure of each ward’s 4-bed bays. These had hollow walls, requiring a little bit of creativity regarding the positioning of medical wall arms – some were placed on bedheads, some were placed on adjacent walls, and all required bespoke external patressing.
As is often the case in healthcare environments, there is no one size fits all TV solution across a property, and with this in mind, Airwave recommended di erent TV models (and screen sizes) to cater for the individual requirements of each TV location:
· 4 bed bays – 19-inch Philips HFL5214 Heartline displays, arm-mounted on Glamox Luxo wall-arms.
· Single occupancy rooms – 32-inch Samsung HT5300 Series displays, wallmounted on WAP 410 arm brackets. · Day rooms / sta areas – 43-inch Samsung HT670 Series displays, mounted on B-Tech, flat-to-wall brackets.
Each screen was mounted in accordance with optimum viewing distances and angles, with a corresponding (mounted) acrylic remote-control holder, attached to a curly cord to prevent theft and loss.
Augmenting the tailored TV o ering, Airwave utilised commercial TV channelmapping functionality to create a di erent
channel line-up for the children’s ward – this positioned all the relevant children’s / lifestyle channels prominently.
Installation was staggered in line with the phased opening of wards (on a floorby floor basis), in this time, Airwave was delighted to lend a helping hand, fixing another ward’s estate of non-working TVs! This required some fairly straightforward network repairs, but resulted in a hugely improved patient experience across the wards in question.
With 40 wards and 640 beds, the Royal Liverpool University Hospital (RLUH) is the largest hospital in Merseyside and Cheshire, providing emergency, general and specialist treatment to patients across the north-west of England.
An important teaching and research facility, RLUH works closely with the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University, providing placements for doctors, nurses, dentists, and health professionals. It’s recognised as a centre of excellence in biomedical, clinical, and health service research, and home to the largest emergency department in the country.
In December 2013, a landmark £430 million redevelopment of the hospital began, with an expected opening date of 2017 (this was subsequently delayed to September 2022, at a revised cost of £1 billion).
Airwave commenced discussions with RLUH in 2014, with early dialogue centred around the provision of a cutting-edge patient entertainment system (PES), to be implemented throughout the hospital’s wards and single rooms.
Naturally, the provision of cuttingedge technology is intrinsically linked to time, and the rapid evolution of technology meant the systems and solutions discussed in 2014, were a world apart from those available in 2022.
The introduction of the NHS’ Global Digital Exemplar (GDE) initiative added a further dimension to conversations, with RLUH announced as one of the first 12 exemplars in 2016. The GDE programme strives to achieve digital transformation
in exemplar organisations, enabling the improvement in the quality of care, via the adoption of world-class digital technologies.
With all this in mind, the consultation period for the implementation of RLUH’s PES, was lengthy and deeply nuanced, with the technology and plans constantly evolving.
It soon became clear that Airwave’s task was not just the design and development of a patient entertainment system, but that of an integrated patient experience (IPE).
Airwave’s final submission of an IPE solution tender was based on 62 mandatory, and 10 desirable system deliverables.
A hybrid hardware solution, incorporating both TVs and tablets was proposed. This was underpinned by Airwave’s MYCARE TV CMS, developed on an Otrum Mirage platform, featuring enhancements by Airwave R&D technicians, to facilitate its delivery across multiple devices. Accessible via a branded user
» TV, radio & Internet
» Casting
» Meal ordering
» Service requests (clinical & hotel services)
» Information services
» Surveys
» Messaging
» Internet browsing
» Treatment & training videos
» RSS feeds
» PAS integration
interface, Airwave’s platform provides patients with a host of entertainment, education, and clinical services, whilst supporting healthcare professionals with clinical applications, designed to improve workflow e ciencies and clinical outcomes (see the below features list).
MYCARE TV is connected via the cloud, seamlessly integrating with a range of delivery platforms – such as smart TVs, bring your own device (BYOD) solutions or bedside computers. Designed to minimise installation time and cost, the solution connects with both wired and wireless network infrastructure, and provides a robust platform for future development, feature releases and upgrades.
Any system that o ers future development or upgrade potential is attractive to a commercial property, however in RLUH’s case, this element was critical.
“In order to protect the integrity of RLUH’s clinical services, the opening of the hospital was staggered over the course of many weeks. In parallel, Airwave was able to stagger the implementation of system features to align with the hospital’s schedule.”
Jes Redgard Head of Healthcare Sales, AirwaveUpon its launch, Airwave’s platform o ered reduced features – consisting of a ‘Watch TV’ function with Freeview channels, access to a livestream from the hospital’s chapel, and radio services.
Over the the next few months, new features were (remotely) implemented,
available to go live in accordance with RLUH’s schedule - late feature additions include integration with third party systems (via the system’s open API protocol), such as PAS (patient admission system) and e-catering / meal ordering.
Having also been tasked to provide the signal infrastructure to support the IPE, Airwave implemented reception infrastructure, and an IPTV headend (incorporating HLS streaming, enabling the streaming of content to tablets over WiFI) to service circa 680 TV end points.
Airwave supplied and mounted 43-inch LG US662H Series commercial displays into the single rooms, and (due to design & space restrictions) 32-inch Samsung 690 Series screens in the bariatric rooms.
80 MYCARE embedded Samsung tablets were provided for the multibed wards, each device mounted on a trolley or meal table.
MYCARE TV provides a multitude of features and services, designed not just to entertain the patient, but to provide a series of operational e ciencies for RLUH’s state-of-the-art hospital.
Underpinned by the principles contained within the NHS’ Global Digital Exemplar initiative, the system is flexible, scalable, cost e cient, and o ers plentiful return on investment opportunity.
Perhaps most pertinently, MYCARE TV has been designed to accelerate future rollouts to other Trust sites over their WAN (wide area network), facilitating communication and the sharing of best practice and innovation.
With so much emphasis placed on the NHS’ GDE initiative, it was a surprise when the Trust’s decision to purchase a huge piece of art for the hospital’s atrium, became clear.
The rationale of the plan was challenged:
“If it’s your desire to become the most digitally advanced hospital in the UK, why not implement a digital signage solution, instead of an individual piece of art?”
Of course, digital signage can be used to display an infinite amount of (digital) art. Via a signage system’s CMS, this art can be changed hourly, daily, weekly or even yearly, able to change the ambience and mood of the atrium in conjunction with the time of day, season, or local & national events.
And as digital signage is multifaceted in functionality, RLUH can also use it to fulfil a multitude of additional tasks, many of which are aligned with GDE:
- Public health messaging (addressing key CQUIN targets)
- Promotional messaging & advertising – providing ongoing ROI opportunities for the trust
The many benefits of digital signage were highlighted in a video, produced by Airwave’s technical team, and presented to RLUH’s former CIO, David Walliker.
Following a presentation of the video to the Trust, it was agreed – indeed technology is the way forward!
With a huge space to fill, Airwave recommended a 9 x 5 metre Samsung LED signage display – at the time, the largest indoor display delivered by Samsung UK.
Samsung’s 10mm SMD indoor LED wall is operable 24/7, and features 2000 nit brightness and 281 trillion colours, creating striking, bright and dynamic visuals.
As with all credible signage solutions, content can be uploaded quickly and e ciently via a CMS, o ering infinitely customisable playlists and content scheduling.
Multiple zones can be created on a template, displaying several types of content concurrently – examples include: Freeview TV, video, images, RSS feeds, websites and social media posts.
Weighing in at an estimated 2070 kg, the installation of the video wall was a considerable undertaking, requiring extensive preparation work and a detailed structural analysis of the building.
However, the bigger the undertaking, the greater the satisfaction when a project is successfully completed; on this occasion, all parties involved fizzed with pride at the achievement.
RLUH’s imposing video wall now takes pride of place in the hospital’s atrium, flooding it with personality whilst greeting, informing and engaging all those that enter this state-of-the-art new hospital.
Patient entertainment systems deliver interactive services and additional features to the healthcare TV.
Systems range from simple splash screens (using text and images to welcome a patient) to feature-rich, sophisticated interfaces that can communicate with clinical services or food ordering systems.
Fully customisable and remotely managed, well designed systems enhance the patient experience, improve operational e ciency and provide additional revenue streams.
The best systems are tailored to the specific requirements of the provider - reflecting the size and scope of the facility. Systems come in all shapes and sizes, but a few common rules do exist. Think about:
• Simple and intuitive – Easily navigable menus and logical pathways are key. Can BBC One be located quickly? How easy is it to cast content? An intuitive menu system is the defining feature of a quality platform.
• Quick and responsive – Isn’t it frustrating when your smartphone is old and sluggish? Well, the same applies here. The user experience should be slick and responsive (gone are the days when a two-second wait for a page change is acceptable)
• Convenient – A good system should o er a quick, seamless method of updating content, allowing regular, hassle-free information updates.
• Flexible – The best systems o er the designer a blank canvas to create exciting, bespoke, on brand designs. Whilst template-based systems do have a place, they can be restrictive and less visually appealing.
• Upgradeable – Things change, time moves on. Don’t be stuck with a system that can’t be amended without resource and expense. The best platforms are futureresistant, easily updated and provide regular (FOC) software updates and new features.
• Design – Whilst user experience is critical, first impressions count. A thoughtful, professional, wow factor design makes a big di erence.
• Price – Of course, price will vary considerably alongside the complexity of a system, but the hard and fast rule is: don’t pay for features you don’t need! (we can help you with that...)
You don’t need SMART TVs!
A number of platforms can run on existing RF infrastructure (also known as coaxial cabling) or can be implemented via external hardware - such as a set-top box.
It’s also possible to run a SMART TV system on coaxial cabling using DOCSIS (data over cable service interface specification) technologyparticularly useful for providers that want SMART functionality but can’t sanction costly/disruptive cabling upgrades.
Entry-level systems are surprisingly a ordable; have you considered a simple welcome screen with a branded image? this type of solution is especially suitable for smaller properties.
It’s also worth considering return on investment potential - room service, video-ondemand movies, local services advertising –just a few examples of potential revenue streams that systems can provide.
Still unsure? How about investigating Airwave sister company, Switchsure’s, finance and leasing packages? (for more details, get in touch: info@hospitaltv.co.uk) allowing cost to be spread over a fixed-term contract.
We’ll always recommend casting functionality (such as Chromecast), essentially o ering your patients unlimited content to choose from.
Other requirements will vary from provider to provider - sometimes a simple, branded welcome screen with an image and text is all that’s needed.
It’s worth noting that a system can be designed, implemented, and then (remotely) enhanced or redesigned at a later date if required - every system that Airwave sell is future-proof in this sense. This allows a provider to go small initially and then upgrade if and when necessary.
Airwave’s team of content engineers design, deploy and manage most leading entertainment systems, including: MYCARE TV, Mediagate, Otrum Mirage, Samsung, Philips and LG platforms.
Although the choice may seem overwhelming, each platform o ers similar features and functionality. We find that final purchasing decisions are often made as a matter of personal taste, based on the ‘look and feel’ of
Built in collaboration with Barts Health NHS Trust, Nu eld Health at St Bartholomew’s Hospital (NSBH), is the City of London’s first independent hospital.
Specialising in cardiology, cardiac surgery, oncology and orthopaedics, the hospital features 55 beds, 7 critical care beds, 4 operating theatres and 28 consultation rooms.
NSBH approached Airwave, looking to provide a home-fromhome experience TV system across several areas of the hospital (including single bedrooms, the high dependency unit and day patient & sta areas).
Work commenced with the implementation of aerial & reception infrastructure, supporting the delivery of Freeview channels and smart services across the hospital’s network.
To conform to the various requirements (and aesthetics) of the individual television points, Airwave installed a selection of commercial TV models, including LG’s LT661H Series and Samsung’s EJ690 Series – display sizes ranging from 24 to 65-inches.
An Otrum Mirage patient entertainment system was implemented on each TV, featuring a series of information pages, an electronic programme guide and access to ‘Connect Your
Device’ functionality, provided by Google Chromecast.
Chromecast facilitates the casting of content from a smart device to the hospital’s TV, opening up the various libraries of streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer, YouTube etc.
Each TV’s remote control was, neatly mounted in a perspex holder, and attached to a curly cord.
Airwave also installed digital signage in the hospital reception and waiting areas, wall-mounting 49-inch LG49SM5KE displays, operated via Otrum signage software and integrated with LG STB5500 set-top boxes. The signage displays were configured to play PIP (picture in picture) allowing TV services and marketing/ information material to run concurrently.
Otrum’s signage software is powerful, flexible and most importantly, intuitive and easy to use, allowing hospital sta to e ortlessly upload important messaging to each display (either independently or as a group).
In the hospital’s meeting room, Airwave wall-mounted a 65-inch Samsung EJ690 display and incorporated Barco Clickshare CSE200 technology – o ering one click wireless presentation from a laptop or portable device.
Spire Healthcare is a leading independent healthcare group, operating 39 hospitals, 33 clinics, medical centres and consulting rooms across England, Wales and Scotland. Airwave have enjoyed working with Spire for several years, managing their ongoing TV system refurbishment programme.
Set within an Edwardian red-brick building in the seaside town of Hove in West Sussex, Spire Montefiore Hospital provides private hospital care, and a diverse range of medical specialities.
Having delivered a patient entertainment platform at Montefiore in 2012, Airwave was delighted to be invited back to refresh the system.
Airwave commenced proceedings with the installation of an Easystream IPTV headend, allowing the distribution of digital TV channels via the property’s IP network.
Airwave installed a mixture of Philips and Samsung commercial TVs across di erent areas of the hospital, including patient bedrooms, day care beds and chemotherapy chairs. TV models included:
· Philips 19-inch HFL511W
· Philips 32-inch HFL5114
· Samsung 43 & 50-inch ET690 Series
An Otrum Mirage patient entertainment system was embedded on each TV, featuring a homepage with scrolling leader
images and messaging.
Otrum Mirage packs a lot of power under its bonnet, but the key to every good patient information system is simplicity (to find out what makes a great PES, see pages 26 &27). Bearing this firmly in mind, Airwave’s technical design team built a series of pages that facilitated quick and intuitive access to the TV channel line-up and casting functionality. This provided by commercially certified Google Chromecast,
Founded in 2004, the Circle Healthcare Group is the UK’s largest independent hospital group, with 2 million patient visits a year across 50+ hospitals. With a service ethos centred around the provision of a world class patient experience, Circle combines clinical excellence with significant investment in innovation and technology.
Airwave is proud to play a small part in this, having supplied patient entertainment technology to Circle since 2016. Projects of note include an IPTV upgrade at Bath Clinic, patient entertainment system implementations at Circle hospitals in Birmingham and Reading, and a 230-point installation at Hinchingbrooke Hospital (now operated by the NHS).
In 2023, Airwave was thrilled to be awarded a two-year contract to upgrade and refurbish the group’s bedside TV technology, from roof to floor (all works from the installation of rooftop reception equipment, to the implementation of healthcare TV and PES systems) across Circle’s portfolio of properties.
Part of the Healthcare Management Trust charity, HMT Sancta Maria is situated within a £25 million state-of-the-art building in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter in the south of Wales.
accessible via a dedicated button on the GUI’s home-page. Of course, not everybody is tech savvy, so clear, concise connection instructions greet the user.
Each TV was wall-mounted in accordance with the location, using either trolleys, or swivel & ultra slim wall brackets. All remote controls were housed in easyclean perspex holders, and attached to curly cords to prevent theft/being misplaced.
“Everything we do is driven by what our patient needs,” state Sancta Maria, and in accordance with this thinking, Airwave was approached to design a wow factor patient entertainment platform to sit within the hospital’s in-patient areas.
Having installed an IPTV headend and various infrastructure to ensure a robust television signal, Airwave wall-mounted Samsung 690 Series SMART TVs at the foot of each bed. BTECH BT7523 tilt wall-mounts were used, o ering a low footprint solution and comfortable viewing from both bed and bedside chair.
Perspex remote control holders were wall-mounted to further enhance this neat and tidy aesthetic, with each RC attached to a cord to prevent theft or loss (a common issue in hospitals!)
Satisfying increasingly stringent infection control protocol, Airwave supplied Ruwido wipe clean RC12122 remote controls, featuring a waterproof polymer membrane keypad, and sealed housing for cleaning convenience.
An Otrum Mirage entertainment system was implemented on each TV, providing a series of interactive information pages and Google Chromecast.
Finishing o the installation, Airwave wall-mounted a 55-inch Samsung QBR Series digital signage display, run via Otrum’s signage software, and able to schedule content quickly and easily, via intuitive management software – ideal in a busy, dynamic hospital environment.
Designed on a modular platform, MYCARE TV can be easily customised and adapted to suit the provider’s needs and preferences.
MYCARE TV is a cloud-based, SaaS (software as a service) management platform for digital surfaces, designed specifically for use in the healthcare industry.
Built on a modular platform, MYCARE TV allows the provider to fully customise a feature set to suit each specific situation.
Accessible via a customisable user interface, MYCARE TV provides a host of entertainment, education, and information services, whilst supporting healthcare professionals with workflow and operational e ciencies.
MYCARE TV seamlessly integrates with a range of delivery platforms – including smart TVs, tablets and BYOD solutions. Designed to reduce installation time and cost, the solution connects with both wired and wireless network infrastructure, and provides a robust platform for future development, feature releases and upgrades.
» TV, radio & Internet
» Casting
» Meal Ordering
» Patient Service Requests
» Information Services
» Patient Surveys
» Messaging Service
» Internet browser
» Treatment & Training Information
» RSS feeds
FLEXIBLE:
MYCARE TV’s modular platform allows the provider to choose from a menu of features, enabling the future introduction of additional modules. This reduces capital outlay and adds scope to augment the system in line with technology developments.
SCALABLE:
MYCARE TV is cloudbased and easily replicated or scaled across one or multiple sites (it can also be implemented within a partner facility via a WAN).
FUTURE-PROOF: Software and features can be remotely upgraded, and new features introduced, reducing the risk of technical obsolescence.
EFFICIENT: MYCARE TV o ers significant ROI potential via operational e ciencies, and additional revenue streams (such as advertising, premium content etc).
EASY: MYCARE TV is built upon ease-of-use as a guiding principle, o ering intuitive access for the patient, and ease of implementation, maintenance & upgrade for the provider.
MYCARE TV is a powerful patient entertainment system that’s EASY to use for the patient, and EASY to implement for the provider.
Airwave is privileged to work with BUPA in the design and installation of commercial TV systems across its care services arm – which caters for 6,000+ residents in 123 care homes, and 10 Richmond Care Villages.
A world class healthcare provider BUPA was founded on 3rd April 1947, with a purpose “to prevent, relieve and cure sickness and ill-health of every kind.”
Operating internationally and serving over 38 million customers, BUPA is run as a private company limited by guarantee, holding no shareholders and reinvesting all profits.
Headquartered in London, BUPA’s UK operation consists of health insurance (currently totalling 2.3m customers), dental care, care services, healthcare services and BUPA Global.
The perfect partnership
Airwave’s ethos centres around the notion that no two projects are identical - each provider has varying requirements that can’t be fulfilled by the supply of template technology.
A product agnostic philosophy facilitates the design and delivery of TV systems to cater for the most nuanced of needs, delivering a welfare first level of care in line with BUPA’s values.
Since the birth of the Airwave & BUPA relationship in 2017, Airwave has installed Samsung, Philips, LG and Cello TVs of varying sizes and specification to BUPA properties across the UK. Most displays are implemented within bedrooms (or within a resident’s personal space), but many TVs typically 50-inch+ screens) are installed within public spaces, such as resident lounges and sta areas.
Various mounting solutions are deployed, including flat-to-wall (aiding a minimalist aesthetic) and swivel-mounts (useful for
“We love working with BUPA, delivering di erent solutions to suit the various technology and budgetary needs of each individual property - a true reflection of the need to o er a consultative sales process.”
Jes Redgard, Head of Healthcare Sales, Airwave
large rooms with various seating positions). Airwave also o er a multitude of auxiliary products, including soundbars, specialist healthcare remote controls, infection control technology and interactive entertainment systems – featuring technologies such as commercially certified Google Chromecast and video on demand movie services.
Airwave have implemented TV technology within refurbishment / upgrade projects, and new build properties - and is delighted to have installed a TV system within the UK’s first specialist dementia care village, in Willaston, Cheshire (see page 18 for more details).
Airwave’s expertise in the delivery of display technology to the hospitality market, lends itself perfectly to the implementation of TV systems within the care services sector.
A home-from-home TV experience is always the measure of a quality TV system, and naturally, this becomes an even greater focus when providing TVs to residents, instead of patients.
Barchester Healthcare is the UK’s largest provider of care services, specialising in the delivery of top quality care to 13,000 residents, across a 200+ portfolio of properties.
Barchester’s services include nursing, residential & dementia care, assisted living, short stay respite care, and services for adults with severe disabilities or mental health needs.
Since 2018, Airwave has enjoyed working in collaboration with Barchester build partner, McGo Construction, in the design, supply and implementation of display and AV technology across the Barchester care home estate.
Whilst each Barchester property is unique, most are of similar size (averaging 65 bedrooms) and share fundamental technology requirements. Consequently, Airwave TV system installations tend to follow a pattern, as follows:
- Bedrooms - 43-inch Samsung SMART TVs
- Reception area – 1 x 43-inch Samsung SMART TV
- Lounges / communal areas – between 2 and 6 x 43-inch Samsung SMART TVs
- Cinema room - a 65 or 75-inch Samsung SMART TV, and a Sonos playbar sound system.
In almost every instance, TV displays (and audio equipment) are either flat-to-wall, or swivel mounted, depending on the TV point’s location and relevant room viewing angles. Airwave look forward to sharing the Barchester’s brand’s growth journey, and of course, the delivery of many more TV & AV systems.
With 10 luxury villages situated across the UK, Richmond Villages is a market leader in the provision of life-enriching retirement communities.
Part of BUPA, the organisation provides 1 and 2-bedroom luxury apartments and specialist care suites, catering for the completely independent, to the fully dependent resident.
Situated between Cheshire’s Crewe and Nantwich, Richmond Villages Willaston is the brand’s specialist dementia care village, purposely built to support su erers of dementia.
Inspired by a transformational Netherlands-led approach to dementia care, Willaston’s philosophy supports independent living for as long as possible. Residents are invited to live in small households of up to 6 like-minded people, typically chosen on the basis of shared interests.
Within the grounds of the village is a care home designed to support the needs of residents living with advanced stages of dementia.
Airwave was honoured to assist in the supply and installation of a brand-new TV system within the facility’s 35 bedrooms, installing a total of 80-displays of di erent sizes and models to best suit each TV’s location and purpose.
43-inch Samsung EJ690 Series SMART TVs were installed in the resident bedrooms, with 55 and 65-inch Philips HFL6014 SMART TVs flat-to-wall mounted in the property’s shared living spaces.
Brendoncare is a registered charity, committed to improving the quality of life for older people through care homes, close care facilities and social clubs across the south of England. Operating a ‘care for life’ promise across its 8 care homes, Brendoncare will continue to care for residents if they run out of money.
Airwave is delighted to be involved in this fabulous initiative, and have delivered healthcare TV systems within the foundation’s newest properties, both located in Hampshire.
Otterbourne Hill and St.Giles View care homes are largely sta ed by volunteers and work on a tight budget; Brendoncare approached Airwave, looking for a quality TV system that wouldn’t break the bank.
Cognisant of budgetary requirements, Airwave still wanted to provide a well-known brand name and a quality viewing experience for the residentsthis compromise existed in the form of Samsung hospitality series displays.
Airwave installed a total of 114 x 32-inch displays across both sites, flat-towall mounting Samsung 470 Series displays at Otterbourne Hill, and Samsung 690 Series displays at St.Giles View.
Both models o er a slim, modern aesthetic and commercial TV features, services & warranty – alongside scope to add additional features and functionality in the future via the implementation of additional software.
Signature o er luxury assisted living, nursing and dementia care across 41 locations in London and the home counties. All homes o er premium, awardwinning care amidst luxurious surroundings.
Airwave was approached to provide a premium TV entertainment system, in keeping with the fivestar service at Signature’s Wandsworth Common site, in southwest London.
On this occasion, the ideal technology o ering featured a mixture of 43 and 55-inch Samsung SMART EJ690 Series TVs, integrated with Google Chromecast, and wall-mounted in the resident bedrooms.
Key to Signature’s tech remit, was the ability to communicate with residents, promote activities and provide a meal ordering service via the bedroom TVs. With this in mind, Airwave implemented an Otrum Enterprise interactive entertainment system, collaborating with Signature’s marketing team to design a graphical user interface and a series of branded information pages.
Additional service functionality was implemented via an Otrum Touch system. Touch o ers a number of operational e ciencies - in this instance, used to send food and drink orders from Signature’s F&B sta to the property’s kitchen.
Other features available include room status management, automatic task allocation (based on sta availability), maintenance reporting and two-way messaging.
This actually starts before I take ownership; we’ll typically engage our pre-sales team to implement a full site-survey, the nature of which dependent on the scope of the project. Most Airwave engineers are multi-disciplined and able to cover all aspects of the survey, but it’s not unusual to send engineers with various skillsets to advise on large, multi-faceted jobs. As an example, an RF engineer to review the property’s RF distribution, whilst a network specialist concurrently surveys WIFI/LAN/IP infrastructure.
As healthcare TV systems become more complicated, so too does their design and deployment. Today’s feature rich, IoT driven technology is changing the parameters of the industry’s project management function.
We speak with Airwave Head of Projects and long-time TV logistics expert, Tom Chapman, and talk about Airwave’s project management machine.
I’m one of several project managers within Airwave’s operations function. I head up the team, and also work on some of our multi-layered, integrated systems projects. Essentially, I act as an intermediary between the sales team, technical department and the client, ensuring we’re all communicating and working as e ciently and cost-e ectively as possible.
I know I don’t look old enough, but I’ve been performing similar roles in the TV technology industry for nearly 25-years!
The complexity and scope of today’s healthcare TV system is a world apart from what it used to be. 25 years ago, the challenges were fairly straightforward. We’d ensure the aerial and satellite to TV network was implemented, and all channels available, we’d ensure each TV was cloned (healthcare TV settings can be “cloned” to expedite set-up from one TV to another) and we’d either trolley or wall-mount each screen. The only added complexity arose from VOD , but this was very much a premium only domain.
Now of course, things are very di erent. Complexity arises not only from advancing technology, but the integration of systems with various third-party suppliers - for example the property’s WIFI & network provider (if not managed by Airwave). Is this robust enough to support our system? Is the provider available, or willing, to talk to our technicians? A third party introduces an added dimension to a project, one that needs to be managed carefully.
We also need to be cognisant of the complexities that IoT solutions bring; whilst IoT delivers innovation and infinite possibilities, it can also be temperamental! We need to be proactive and alert.
This analysis details the scope and complexity of the project, allowing me to work alongside the account manager and technical team to present a “good, better, best” proposal to the customer. All being well, we’ll kick o the project and the real work begins.
This commences with a series of conversations between the sales and technical team - these interactions are critical to the smooth running of the project and we’ll speak at great length, covering o all areas and contingencies in micro-detail.
From this point forward, I am in constant contact with the lead technical engineer, it can be a little intense and often morphs into something like a husband and wife relationship!
Next, a site meeting with the client. This covers the job’s logistics: project stakeholder introductions, stock lead times, proof of concept rooms, access and delivery, floor plans, design team input – the list is long.
I insist on visiting each property to look for potential problems – this might seem excessive but you’d be surprised at the number of issues that can be mitigated by doing this. I’ll take a virtual clipboard and review power, data and RF outlets, check the area and structural integrity of wall surfaces - and I count TV points! Believe it or not, it’s not uncommon for a property to make mistakes when counting.
Whilst on site, the lead technical engineer and I also run through the initial RF/network survey report and sense check all items related to the system’s deployment.
When this is all complete, we’ll finalise the order and commence pre-site works. From supplier confirmations, to the scheduling of engineer resource, through to the pre-configuration and design of the system, this part of the process sees me knee-deep in topography drawings and spreadsheets and it’s all about the detail. For example, we need to ensure equipment is set up and labelled to its respective property location, harvesting specific details (serial, MAC address etc) to each piece of hardware.
This not only helps with an e cient installation, but is integral to the support of the products once handed over and in a live environment.
As good practice, I will typically attend site on the first installation day, but theoretically speaking, if I’ve done my job and been ultra-e cient, I don’t really need to be involved now.
Once the work is complete and the system commissioned, I will collate installation and technical handover reports and organise training for the relevant sta members
With the final sign-o , O&M and trouble-shooting documentation is presented to all stakeholders. These files provide reference for both the client and our own support team.
When all this done, it’s time for a celebratory cup of tea (or gin) and a jammy dodger…before moving onto the next deadline...
It all starts with a site survey.
There is! And this is what makes the job so interesting. I have worked on integrated systems deployed over several thousand rooms, but have also managed the supply and installation of a Freeview system into a small care home.
However, every single site is di erent. Even if we’re installing the same system into a template room - using our hospitality partner, Premier Inn for example - there are always nuances and surprises.
I love this part of the job, it keeps me on my toes and stops me getting complacent and making mistakes.
I often hear that you learn from mistakes and shouldn’t be afraid to make them. Well, our management team think di erently! Mistakes can be expensive when working with technology so we’re try and avoid them at all costs.
Evolving technology. The systems we sell are constantly changing. Whilst this is exciting and dynamic, it can be quite exhausting. Whilst we don’t have to know every little detail about each system we sell, we do need to know a considerable amount. Toby Hart (Airwave Operations Director) insists we become product experts.
This means there’s never really a quiet day, if we’re not pouring over spreadsheets, we’re expected to be learning about mobile device management or burying our head in WiFi theory.
I have two. Firstly, be honest, it’s such an important quality and should underpin your relationship with the client. Be open, be transparent; if you have bad news, don’t hide it or dress it up.
Similarly, don’t be afraid to challenge the customer if you feel their expectations are unrealistic or have concerns about the technology they’re requesting. We’ve often recommended against unnecessary features (the customer usually appreciates this as it keeps costs down!) and express concerns about systems that lack scope to be future-proofed.
Secondly, every good project manager should be obsessed about working as cost-e ciently as possible. This might seem obvious but you’d be surprised how often it’s not the case. A lean project means better prices for the customer and better margins for Airwave. Everybody’s happy!
I love technology and learning about products. As mentioned, I don’t have comprehensive knowledge of every product so often see projects as a jigsaw puzzle. At first, you look at the scope of works and it seems overwhelming. Where do I start?! but gradually, the pieces come together, concluding with an enormous sense of satisfaction when the puzzle is complete.
I see our technology – interactive TV platforms, signage, WiFI, MDM etc – as pieces of the puzzle. When these are all integrated e ectively and function as per design, it’s a great feeling.
This might sound a bit corny but I get a buzz from delivering a well-planned and well-executed project.
I love my job and am passionate about getting it right. We have such high standards at Airwave and it’s humbling to be part of such a talented team.
Couple this, with getting the chance to visit some incredible properties and working with highly motivated and invested clients - that gets me up in the morning!
I also love a bad joke, a few biscuits and like to lock horns with Airwave’s Head of Healthcare Sales, Jes Redgard, who keeps me in check with his direct approach and straight-talking ways.
Mediagate adds SMART TV functionality and additional features to non-smart displays or Android TV platforms.
• Integrated Google Chromecast
• Hundreds of downloadable APPS
• Dynamic weather icons
• Information Services
• Bi-directional communication
• Fast, efficient deployment across TV portfolio
• GDPR Compliant – clears user credentials
• TV Messaging via an intuitive web portal
• Onscreen prompts and call to action buttons
Mediagate runs on any new or existing Android TV (Google TV), and can be integrated with all other TVs via a small footprint set-top box, securely connected to the TV’s HDMI port.
The software turns the TV into an interactive entertainment system, offering a home-from-home TV experience, with the additional features, services and security of a healthcare TV.
The system is cloud-based, providing a centrally managed and fully customisable interactive graphical user interface.
The secure accommodation and prison sectors strive to provide a safe and secure environment for residents / inmates, sta and visitors.
Stringent security and safety protocol necessitate the design and implementation of specifically tailored television systems to meet the requirements of these specialised facilities.
Airwave is delighted to partner with various secure accommodation and prison facilities, in the delivery of bespoke technology solutions.
Situated a few miles east of Liverpool’s city centre, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital is one of Europe’s biggest, busiest, and most prestigious children’s hospitals, caring for over 330,000 children, young people and families every year.
Recognised as a world leader in children’s healthcare and research, Alder Hey is a World Health Organisation accredited health promoting hospital, and a Centre of Excellence for cancer, spinal, heart and brain conditions.
As part of its long list of children’s services, Alder Hey operate 1 of only 7 Children’s inpatient mental health facilities in the UK.
Formerly known as the Dewi Jones Unit and previously based in nearby Sefton, the facility relocated to the Alder Hey campus in 2022, receiving not just a new building, but a new name as well.
The Sunflower House is a fully equipped, 12-bed inpatient mental health unit for 5–13-year-olds with challenging mental health conditions.
O ering a range of facilities, such as family bedrooms, chill-out zones, therapy rooms and a kitchen diner, Sunflower aim to provide a friendly, safe and comfortable environment, enabling children to experience a semblance of normality, in a home-like environment.
Of course, very much an intrinsic part of a 5-13 year old’s normal experience, is a TV system, gaming technology and access to on-demand content – particularly YouTube.
Airwave was tasked to provide a modern SMART TV system to facilitate easy access to TV and gaming content in the facility’s inpatient bedrooms, and communal spaces.
Airwave recommended 43-inch LG US662H Series commercial TVs, providing a low footprint design (each display was
flat-to-wall mounted to enhance this minimalist aesthetic), UHD definition and HDR10 Pro picture technology.
An Otrum Mirage patient entertainment system was implemented on each display, o ering a branded graphical user interface, an electronic programme guide, and intuitive access to a commercially certified Google Chromecast service – allowing patients to cast content from a smart device to the TV.
In the building’s communal spaces, Airwave floor-mounted a further 4 displays, all featuring Otrum Mirage, Chromecast and connected to games stations (Xbox and Playstations).
Due to the specific needs of the facility, Sunflower House requested a shelf and security solution for the games machines, o ering protection from damage and theft. Airwave bespoke designed a metal casing unit, o ering a lockable, easy access and ventilated solution for the gaming hardware.
With over 500,000 employees, G4S is the world’s largest security company. Headquartered in London, the company o ers a range of services, including the supply of security personnel, monitoring equipment, response units and secure prisoner transportation.
G4s has operated within the criminal justice sector since the opening of the UK’s first private sector prison, and currently operates 5 highly rated custodial care and rehabilitation facilities.
Airwave has supplied and installed 5,000+ institutional television screens across G4S facilities at HMP Winson Green, HMP Oakwood, HMP Rye Hill, HMP Parc, HMP Altcourse and the secure training centre at Oakhill, Milton Keynes.
“Secure environments require a di erent type of television” said Paul Chambers, Airwave sales & marketing director “as a consequence, we proposed dedicated institutional television hardware.”
Institutional TVs, (also known as prison TVs) are specifically manufactured for secure site environments, o ering specially designed features. These include:
· Transparent housing – to prevent inmates hiding weapons and contraband inside the television’s fascia (see image).
· Prison mode – to prevent
Rampton Forensic Hospital is a high security (category A) psychiatric hospital, housing approximately 400 patients detained under the Mental Health Act 1983. Rampton’s patients require treatment in conditions of high security, owing to ‘dangerous, violent or criminal propensities.’
In accordance with the facility’s strict security protocol, Rampton required a robust and secure in-bedroom entertainment platform, featuring access to a virtual campus and important patient information - such as policies on possessions, room searches, activities and education.
Further requirements included the restriction of distributed television content in line with patient policies, and restricted & controlled access to the Internet. Rampton also requested a management system that
unauthorised communication to, from and between inmates (enabling the control and locking of features such as Teletext, EPG, subtitles and USB ports).
· Advanced volume control – TV volume levels can be restricted to prevent noise disturbances.
Ahead of delivery to site, Airwave pre-programmed each television to secure mode, ensuring optimum security protocol was adhered to, and enabling each TV to be plug-and-played
enabled remote access control of content & services - and most importantly, allowed sta to monitor the status of each individual TV.
Airwave was tasked to design an IPTV-based platform to fulfil Rampton’s very specific needs.
Airwave recommended Samsung’s 690 Series SMART Commercial TV platform, embedded with a REACH 4.0 IP CMS – providing the necessary features, benefits and security to meet the project’s various conditions. Airwave designed and implemented a REACH graphical user interface and configured bespoke TV settings to limit both content, and access to other features & services.
Ahead of delivery and installation into Rampton, Airwave pre-configured each TV activating the secure ‘locked’ mode,
enabling a plug and play installation on site. This was further facilitated by the pre-build of units to include the connection of cables and assembly of wall-brackets.
As per Rampton’s request, the project was delivered on a just in time basis, and includes ongoing service and technical support.
8 out of 10 UK adults regularly use on-demand content services such as BBC iPlayer, Netflix and YouTube.
Amazon Prime, Apple TV+, HBO Now, Disney Plus, ITVX, BritBox, Spotify, Now TV – the choice of platforms is vast, providing the viewer with a gargantuan array of TV shows, movies, music and online content. This (perhaps understandably) feeds addiction to an already favourite pasttime – watching TV. “Have you watched any good boxsets lately?” is now as commonplace a conversation piece as the weather, in today’s technology driven world.
Of course, the introduction of on-demand technology, has seismically shifted our viewing habits. We now have enormous choice, not just in the content we watch, but how we watch it. Content can now be consumed via portable devices such as laptops, tablets, and most notably – smartphones (the UK is the world’s leading smartphone user with 83%1 market penetration).
So, what does all this this mean? Well, simply speaking, the UK public are smartphone-addicted, hungry consumers of on-demand television & movie content. Binge-watching is facilitated by the choice, accessibility and portability of content – all leading to watch what you want, when you want consumption of content.
On-demand content is not the future, it’s the now. The future will simply see greater adoption of on-demand technology until it becomes as standard at the TV itself. Whilst linear TV is still important, it’s not nearly enough to satisfy today’s content-hungry generation.
In the latter part of 2019, half of UK homes subscribed to at least one of Netflix, Amazon Prime or Now TV - this figure rose stratospherically during covid-19’s period of lockdown. 12 million new streaming subscriptions2 were initiated in this relatively short period of time, perfectly demonstrating the importance of content to a captive audience.
The parallel is obvious; patients in hospital wards, away from the comfort and convenience of home, look for ways to pass the time.
There’s no getting away from it - patients used to watching what they want, when they want, won’t be impressed with a standard line-up of terrestrial TV channels in a healthcare environment. In today’s technology-driven world, a property must provide a vehicle for the patient to watch their own content on the TV.
Many on-demand services can be embedded on SMART healthcare TV displays. Whilst this does provide the patient with a good amount of extra content, the line-up of available apps can be limited. Significantly, the provision of certain subscription services (most notably, Netflix) is problematic due to licensing restrictions.
This can be remedied by the installation of Google Chromecast - allowing patients to simply cast their content from a portable device to the property’s television.
Whilst other methods of content sharing do exist (for example screen mirroring) Google Chromecast is by far the most secure, flexible and user-friendly casting platform.
1 Newzoo's 2019 Global Mobile Market Report 2 Ofcom.
average person spent 5 hours and 16 minutes a day, watching TV and video content in 2021.
Google Chromecast’s revolutionary technology enables the casting of media, from a smart device (such as a smartphone, tablet, PC etc)to a TV. The device allows patients to access a range of content from apps such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube and Spotify.
Using a portable device as a remote control, the patient can choose from a list of compatible apps and simply ‘cast’ the app’s content from the device to the TV. All that’s needed is a wifi / internet connection, Chromecast, and a compatible TV.
Eight in ten UK adults3 use subscription services such as Netflix or catch-up TV services and 83% of the population4 own a smart portable device. Today’s patient is a hungry consumer of on-demand content and expects to watch this in the healthcare environment.
No. Google Chromecast adds smart functionality, breathing life into an existing TV system and providing a multitude of popular apps, a browser and typically, a quicker, more intuitive viewing experience.
A healthcare certified Chromecast device will be configured to prevent interference between rooms and housed in protective casing to stop tampering and theft.
Chromecast can also be integrated into an entertainment system, providing
Chromecast is compatible with every widely-used platform, including: Windows, Android, Apple OS X, Chrome OS and Linux.
No. Chromecast is a much more flexible and user-friendly method of casting content, allowing users to browse their device without disrupting what’s streaming to the TV (as an example, users can receive calls, respond to texts and surf the net whilst watching Netflix). Also, screen mirroring is only compatible with Android devices and consequently only relevant to a fraction of guests.
No. Your battery is only used to initiate casting and all solutions use wifi, not data.
Wifirst EMEA Vice President, Vincent Jouan, shares his top five tips for the implementation of a Wi-Fi service in a healthcare environment.
1. Plan Ahead. Think carefully about the future when implementing a Wi-Fi system. Consider evolving technology and exponential increases in device ownership, streaming service subscriptions and data usage. Recognise that today’s top draw Wi-Fi system is likely to be middle of the road in 3/5 years, and slow and sluggish in 5-7 years. So, make sure you invest in a system that’s flexible and scalable.
2. Don’t skimp on the bandwidth. When thinking about bandwidth, plan for peak time, peak occupancy usage and again, factor in the future – bandwidth requirements are only going to increase. Our current recommendation is 25MB per patient, but if you ask me the same question in 12 months’ time, I’m sure it will have increased!
3. …or the equipment. There’s not much point in providing a universe of bandwidth if the equipment isn’t up to task. Start with suitable network and cabling infrastructure – Cat6 should be the bare minimum and if maintained properly, will last 10 to 20 years. Install plenty of RJ45 points, implement quality routers and perhaps most importantly
- get the gateway right. This is the brain of the infrastructure, controlling and monitoring every aspect of the system’s hardware and software – so make sure it’s up to date and running e ciently.
4. Think about the patient experience. Don’t make connecting to the Wi-Fi a chore. The login process should be simple and intuitive, avoiding multiple sign-ins and complicated log-in screens. Ideally, one login should o er the patient Wi-Fi access throughout the property (not just in the bedroom/ward) for the duration of their stay. Essentially, look to provide the same experience in the hospital, or care home, as the patient would expect at home. That’s the holy grail!
Vincent Jouan, EMEA Vice President, Wifirst UK5. Consider Wi-Fi as a service. Wifirst’s ‘Wi-Fi as a Service’ model circumnavigates technical obsolescence by providing hardware equipment and charging a monthly service fee. Essentially, this allows a property to provide a Wi-Fi service that’s constantly evolving and improving. Wifirst will refresh or replace Wi-Fi equipment as and when necessary – at no additional cost - ensuring a hotel’s Wi-Fi is current, robust and fast at all times.
Founded in 2002, Wifirst is the European leader in Managed WiFi as a service.
Covering 30 countries, Wifirst has been active in the UK since 2016, and partner with Airwave to provide an integrated technology o ering to the healthcare, senior living, hotel, and student accommodation markets.
To find out more, get in touch: vincent.jouan@wifirst.fr
Like the plague, avoid buying a domestic TV and putting it in your property. You’ll regret it. Whilst you might save a little bit of money initially, you’ll unquestionably increase the long-term cost of your investment. Not to mention the less tangible operational costs that go hand in hand with domestic TVs in a commercial environment. If you scan the QR code, you’ll find a handy explainer video - it’s made by Airwave’s hospitality division - but is just as relevant for the healthcare sector. Enjoy!
With the increasing scope and power of today’s healthcare TV system, it’s tempting to implement a raft of features, creating an all-singing, all-dancing television masterpiece. Whilst innovation is great, our ethos has always been - optimum experience first, innovation second.
Feel free to impress your patients with sexy functionality, but make sure it works well (every time) and is simple to use.
Don’t just view a TV system as capital expenditure, think also about its return on investment potential – a well designed system o ers extra revenue streams and operational e ciencies that will soon cover initial outlay.
We’re cognisant that healthcare providers have to carefully manage cost (like every other business), so for those that can’t justify the expenditure of a premium system, Airwave have created a cost-e cient system that provides smart TV functionality to existing TV hardware (see page 23 for more details).
A clear, intuitive menu is the defining feature of a top-drawer system. Easily navigable menus and logical pathways are key, as is the prominent positioning of the most used features Think carefully about the user experience, from switch-on to switch-o , and when this is done, test, test and test again.
Well yes, SMART TVs are the future - but they’re not the only option. If you’re looking to upgrade your system, but your (non-SMART) TVs have plenty of gas in the tankthere are ways of breathing new life into your technology without purchasing new TVs. There are several available options, and assuming you can support the proposed solution with credible wifi/ internet infrastructure, the implementation of technology such as Google Chromecast (via a set-top box) o ers huge extra value.
Think of today’s healthcare TV, not just as a TV, but as part of an IOT ecosystem - an internet enabled smart hub, multi-faceted and boasting an abundance of additional features.
SMART TVs can be integrated with a third party’s management software to perform a series of additional tasks. These may be as simple as a personalised welcome message on the TV, or incredibly sophisticated - think the operation of a room’s lights, heating and curtains via the TV.
Naturally, you don’t need to incorporate every available feature - many might not be relevant anyway - but don’t under-estimate what your humble TV has got underneath its bonnet.
In a technical world that’s constantly changing and evolving, the purchase of a TV system can be complicated...
so, before you make any decisions, before you pick up the phone to talk TVs, have a quick flick through Airwave’s Top
:
You can design the most technically impressive system the healthcare industry has ever seen, but it will be compromised by poor design.
Whilst user experience is critical, almost as important is the aesthetics of a system. We’re not suggesting something fit for the Sistine Chapel, merely a series of professional looking pages, that are uniform in design and conform to your organisation’s style and branding.
Arguably, this is common sense, what’s less obvious is how the choice of a system will a ect the scope of your design. The best systems allow infinite options via an HTML based platform; if possible, avoid template based systems that won’t accommodate deviation from a set standard.
A healthcare TV should perform like a domestic TV (speedy switch-on and channel changes, clear menu systems etc) and o er OTT content options. Whilst linear TV still has an important part to play in the healthcare environment, telly addict patients (see pages 26 & 27) expect more.
Healthcare certified Google Chromecast enables the patient to cast content from a SMART device to the TV - providing access to 1000+ apps and essentially, an infinite amount of content.
Chromecast is a relatively inexpensive technology, and has revolutionised the healthcare TV industry. We recommend that it’s implemented whenever possible.
Can your property’s WiFi or internet infrastructure support the bandwidth requirements of tech-hungry patients, streaming high-definition movie content?
Make sure your network can support an interruption-free streaming experience during peak viewing / usage times. We recommend a minimum speed of 30Mbps per patient and a scalable WiFi service that can support this.
Patient entertainment systems turn a TV into a powerful information and marketing tool, delivering interactive services and additional features to the TV, via a customisable interface.
Whilst they come in all shapes and sizes (ranging from a simple splash screen with an image and text, to sophisticated systems capable of two-way communication and service integration), they will always add value and a personal touch to the healthcare TV.
With SMART television functionality, comes greater longevity to the healthcare TV system, allowing regular software updates and scope for future feature upgrades. Make sure this is firmly in mind when purchasing a system - think not just about the TV itself, but also the supporting system you choose to incorporate. Whilst most systems can be upgraded in some form or another, some are much more geared up for this, o ering automatic updates and simple, intuitive methods to do this.
Smart (no pun intended) design of healthcare TV technology can extend your TV system’s life by several years...
The best TV systems aren’t necessarily the most feature-rich - especially when a glut of functionality interferes with the user experience. This may seem obvious, but it’s worth asking yourself if a feature will be used often enough to justify its inclusion.
Whilst you may want to fill your interface with an array of smart apps, many will gather dust and exist as clutter, rather than credible passers of time. A good rule of thumb is: will the TV support or elevate the app experience? Of course this is a resounding “yes” for streaming services such as Netflix and YouTube, but a big, fat “no” for most social media services - which can be better accessed via the guest’s portable device.
With several TV brands and multiple interactive systems to choose from, the choice can seem overwhelming. However, it doesn’t need to be.
Three key brands operate in the commercial TV sector – Samsung, Philips and LG. All are reliable, all are recommended by our technical team, and all are certified Airwave partners.
Which brand is best? That’s, of course, subjective. Each brand o ers similar features and functionality and we find the customer’s purchasing decision is usually based on personal preference or price.
The implementation of a patient entertainment system will depend on the scope and scale of the property,
and your individual requirements - and as such, is slightly more complicated. However, the pleasure will be all ours as we talk you through the options and demonstrate each system accordingly.
So….get in touch, we’re looking forward to talking tech!
Bring the comfort of home into your healthcare environment. The new Philips Bedside TV is equipped with built-in Chromecast Technology - so content can easily be streamed from any mobile device. The Google Play Store offers additional entertainment options by accessing thousands of apps, games, and music. This guarantees an individualised viewing experience and the highest patient satisfaction. ppds.com
