Creating Future-Ready Healthcare Facilities through Building Automation
By Fawn Staerkel, Director of Healthcare Strategic Accounts, Johnson Controls
A group of healthcare clinics in central United States were preparing to build additional facilities, but in order to do so, they needed to update their building controls system. Their existing system lacked a migration path, meaning the clinic would have to replace the head-end of their system as part of their upgrade. When their existing controls contractor had proved to be unresponsive, it raised concerns around their handling of such a complicated project. They needed a solution that could support their future expansion plans and growing locations.
One cross-functional team for their building controls mission
The clinics had previously received support from Johnson Controls for their fire systems and selected the company to take on their controls systems upgrade. To kick-off the project, Johnson Controls brought in a cross-functional application team to thoroughly address the clinics’ unique needs, including a project manager, service manager and installation manager.
From there, Johnson Controls implemented the new Metasys® interface. This new platform gave facility managers the ability to remotely monitor and control their clinics’ operations using a smartphone. In addition, Metasys®’ open architecture allowed for it to be connected with their existing infrastructure through BacNet, saving the clinics time and money. The team also replaced the head-end controls for the parent hospital, finally upgrading the entire system of clinics through smarter technology.
Healthcare building systems that grow with their clinics
Johnson Controls installation, integration and services enabled the project to progress smoothly and on time, and the clinics are now prepared for any future expansions or integrations. The Metasys® interface gives the clinics’ facility managers the tools to control their own building environments, while the open architecture allows them to continue expanding while reaping the efficiency benefits that come from operating on a single system. They see the potential for future integrations, including their Electronic Health Records (EHR) software and work order system. Through their partnership with Johnson Controls, their buildings are prepared to grow as fast as their business.
Find out how Johnson Controls can support your healthcare facility here.