Wi-Fi calling in your Facility?

by Tim Gieseke MD, CMD

I have been the Medical Director of a large CCRC since 1986, which was before we had cell phones.  Over the years, this technology has dramatically improved, but at this particular facility, I barely receive text messages and still can’t receive cell phone calls.  The big issue is the 1000-foot elevation Annadel State Park immediately next door, which blocks much of the signal of my carrier.  There is another carrier with a better signal, but even that signal is weak.  Some years ago, I tried a signal amplifier unit, but that proved ineffectual.

My new associate, Dr. David Greene, has the other carrier, but found it inadequate and did activate a better option.  Newer phones available over the past 3+ years have an option to make and receive calls by tying into the facility w-ifi system.  I went to my carrier and they set up this wifi option without charge.  I am pleased to report that I now call and receive calls with an excellent landline-like clarity.

This is like free calling with Skype, but I can call anyone.  In addition, this can be set up anywhere in the world that has a wi-fi signal, even on a cruise ship.

I realize others may already know of this option, but in my CCRC, most of our team was pleased to learn of it.

In the Post-Acute and Long-Term Care setting, timely communication sets the stage for good things to happen for our staff and our patients.

Free is also good.

Happy calling!