The physical network design at ARMC is intended to provide for virtual LAN designations throughout the facility to tie together, seamlessly, with high-level security to the San Bernardino County WAN, says Cindie Watkins, director of information services. Additionally, the infrastructure is designed to provide for distributed networks and seamless connectivity throughout ARMC s enterprise. As a county facility, the enterprise performs as an integral part of the county health network. The medical systems at ARMC require high-performance cabling capable to allow physicians to access the network file servers. ARMC utilizes T1, T3 and 56K communications lines throughout the facility.
Physicians can obtain patient information including everything from X-ray results to lab reports.
Additionally, the cabling system supports an expansive communications network between physicians, labs, administrative offices and various departments throughout the hospital. The component requiring the most bandwidth in data transport is ARMC s innovative X-ray system. PACS is a filmless radiology system that displays images anywhere in the hospital as well as remotely. This feature allows doctors and radiologists to view and consult on X-rays more efficiently and more quickly. Fiber has the capability to support high-bandwidth data, images and voice, Watkins says.