In May 2017, Three Links management identified integration and modernization of safety technology and telephone systems as one of six medium term capital plan priorities. Currently, the Care Centre’s nurse call, wandering alarm and telephone systems are operating on different technology systems and serviced by different service providers.

The current nurse call systems were installed at bedsides 20 years ago and serviced by Logical Solutions. The current wandering alarm is serviced by Houle Electric and was installed eight years ago. The Care Centre’s desk and wireless phone system has not been refreshed in eight years and the contract is serviced by Algo Communications.

In 2016-17, Three Links invested over $21,058 maintaining and repairing these systems. With the aging phone and nurse call systems, Three Links management has prioritized the opportunity to modernize and integrate these systems to help improve the quality of care and safety of residents, staff and visitors.

Consultation

In association with June’s Board presentation on capital plan priorities, Three Links management initiated a comprehensive Request for Proposals process with four potential vendors. Three vendors were shortlisted, interviewed by Three Links management and ranked based on their experience, technology compatibility, total cost and maintenance plans. Based on this review, Three Links management has awarded the service contract for the purchase and installation of new nurse call, wandering alarm and phone systems to:

• Algo Communications for the replacement of the existing Nortel phone system with Avaya
• Houle Electric for the replacement of the existing Rauland nurse call system with Ascom Telligence Nursecall C300 and the existing @Guard wandering alarm with Accutech

As part of the contract terms, the two vendors will agree to working together to ensure seamless, one-stop installation and continued maintenance service when needed.

Operational Implications

The project will be led by Three Links’ Director of Support Services and Director of Care with support from Human Resources. The CEO will provide regular reports to the Board’s Finance and Audit Committee until the project is completed – which we expect to be the end of 2017.