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January 12, 2023 : In a pioneering move shaping the future of patient and staff experience, St. Joseph’s/Candler Hospital in Savannah, Georgia, has become the first U.S. healthcare facility to embrace Amazon’s innovative “Just Walk Out” technology. This self-service shopping system, already prevalent in retail outlets, seamlessly integrates with the hospital setting, offering a contactless and efficient way to purchase food and beverages.
Furthermore, St. Joseph’s/Candler has pushed the envelope by introducing a novel employee “badge payment” option. This enables healthcare workers to utilize their employee badges for automatic checkout, eliminating the need for cash or cards. This streamlined process enhances convenience and fosters a more efficient work environment for busy medical staff.
“Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology supports our smart medicine strategy by providing high-tech solutions to our patients, visitors, and co-workers, even with food service,” remarked Paul P. Hinchey, President and CEO of St. Joseph’s/Candler. This statement underscores the hospital’s commitment to embracing technological advancements to improve patient care and staff well-being.
The new store near the emergency department provides a readily accessible option for those waiting for loved ones or seeking a quick refreshment during busy shifts. The Just Walk Out technology employs advanced sensors and cameras to track product selection and automatically charge customers upon exiting, eliminating the need for traditional checkout lines.
This innovative approach offers several potential benefits. Firstly, it enhances convenience for patients and visitors, allowing them to grab snacks and drinks without leaving their loved ones’ sides or interrupting busy schedules. Secondly, it provides healthcare workers a swift and hygienic way to purchase meals and refreshments, optimizing their valuable time.
Of course, integrating novel technologies into sensitive healthcare settings necessitates careful consideration. Privacy concerns surrounding data collection and potential accessibility challenges for some individuals are crucial considerations St. Joseph’s/Candler is actively addressing.
Implementing Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology at St. Joseph’s/Candler marks a significant step forward in the evolution of healthcare convenience. This pilot project has the potential to not only elevate patient and staff experience but also pave the way for wider adoption of contactless retail solutions within the healthcare landscape.
