GPS-Based Tracking System for Trauma Patients

This proposed effort develops a NAVSYS Medical GPS Locator System that addresses two areas of concern in tracking the location and coordinating timing of events for trauma patients. Determining the timing of the treatment of trauma patients is an important aspect of increased survivability. Additionally, victims of mass trauma events may be sent to diverse locations for treatment. If the event involves a biological agent, it is desirable to be able to determine where the victims were sent to deal with the potential for possible contamination of others who come into contact with them. The effort proposed here will build on NAVSYS efforts of the Phase I program by developing a wearable GPS location device that is attached to the trauma patient’s wrist upon first contact by medical staff. The GPS location device will contain a software-defined GPS radio, which will provide raw timing and location information to a Gateway via a wireless connection. The Gateway will then make use of the internet or other networking assets to send identifier, timing, and location information to a Processing Center where the GPS location information is processed and access to the results is provided to authorized users. The system will be tested in a simulated clinical situation to validate performance and value.