Accelerating Healthcare Digitalization with Enhanced, Secure WiFi Networks

Zyxel_May · April 23

Valposchiavo Health Center

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Overview

The Valposchiavo Health Center in Poschiavo, Switzerland, launched a digital transformation of its healthcare services to support the adoption of a Hospital Information System (HIS)—the central hub for capturing, processing, and storing medical and administrative data. To achieve this, the health center partnered with Föllmi ICT AG, a Zyxel Networks Gold Partner, which deployed the Nebula cloud networking solution. The HIS enables doctors, nurses, and staff to record and access data directly at the bedside using mobile devices, reflecting Föllmi ICT AG's vision of making digitalization simple.

Challenges

As healthcare services became increasingly digital, the Valposchiavo Health Center faced mounting pressure on its network infrastructure. The hospital required stable, fail-safe WiFi with seamless coverage, high performance, and reliable roaming across the facility, along with secure access for patients. A key challenge was the health center's layout, which spans multiple buildings that are not physically connected. At the same time, safeguarding sensitive patient data required strong and comprehensive security measures.

Solutions

To address the Valposchiavo Health Center's network challenges, Föllmi ICT AG overhauled the entire infrastructure. The process began with a comprehensive site survey conducted with Studerus to determine optimal access point placement across the multiple buildings.

For WiFi management, the Zyxel Networks' Nebula cloud platform was deployed to provide centralized control and remote management through a web browser or the mobile app. Push notifications alert staff to device issues, enabling them to respond quickly and minimize downtime.

An ATP700 firewall with UTM services was installed to ensure robust data protection. The network was segmented using VLANs, isolating critical medical systems from guest access and supporting efficient troubleshooting, bandwidth prioritization, and management. This ensures that doctors and nurses always have sufficient bandwidth when using devices, while maintaining high security standards.

Beyond the network upgrade, Föllmi ICT AG assumed full responsibility for the health center's IT operations, effectively serving as its external IT department. This comprehensive approach enhanced connectivity and security and simplified IT management, aligning with Föllmi ICT AG's vision of making digitalization simple.

Results

The new Zyxel Networks' WiFi solution provided a stable, high-performance wireless network throughout the hospital. Staff and patients now enjoy uninterrupted connectivity and seamless roaming. The implementation of the ATP700 firewall and VLAN segmentation significantly strengthened network security, ensuring sensitive patient information remains protected. The Nebula cloud platform streamlined network management, allowing Föllmi ICT AG to monitor and maintain the network remotely. As a result, healthcare professionals can access hospital information consistently, improving workflow efficiency and elevating the standard of patient care.

Comprehensive, high-performance, and reliable WiFi with seamless roaming for staff and patients
Enhanced data security through VLAN segmentation and the UTM firewall features
Simplified IT management via the Nebula cloud platform with remote monitoring and alerts

Products used

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