Some details
Medtronic’s NIM nerve monitoring system helps surgeons avoid accidents that can diminish or even destroy nerve function.
They approached Macadamian to create a seamless data integration with back-end EHR systems.
Approach
A major update like the one Medtronic envisioned for the NIM is a bit like surgery itself: it takes methodical planning and a holistic engagement that starts with consultations and careful
listening, and ends after the under-the-hood engineering work is done and, much like a patient, the software is stable and functioning fully again. The planning started with an on-site alignment workshop where Medtronic and Macadamian explored a range of options for integrating the NIM into back-end EHR systems. These included cloud-based solutions, Interface Engines, FHIR, and HL7.Solution
Ultimately, a combination of FHIR integrated into the NIM units for patient record look-up and HL7 to do the actual data updates was chosen. The revised device will allow reports to be uploaded to a hospital’s EHR system over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi with a couple of button presses. And it will be future proof too, since FHIR is quickly becoming one of the most popular standards for health data exchange in the industry. Connected product capabilities paired with secure cloud integration will allow Medtronic to gather usage and diagnostic information, and even troubleshoot problems remotely as they are being used — opening the door to a new world of service and revenue opportunities. With the next-generation NIM rolling out to operating rooms, doctors and support staff will have one less thing to be nervous about during delicate surgery.
