At any given moment, we have 200 to 300 users running fax servers, lab reports, radiology, or medical record transcripts, so we are using slightly less than what a T1 line can handle -- so if 10 guys are streaming music, a couple are on game sites and a few are instant messaging -- this can shut the system down. |
Because of security issues, the hospital is prohibited from using broadband. Fiber-optics are probably the best option, but not everyone has it and it is very expensive -- just out of our price range at this point. |
Online shopping, anything involving pictures, downloading music can use up too much of a taxed system. |
We have a fiber-optic line outside our hospital, but we're told we need to hire an IT person to 'manage the line' -- another expense. |
We still do have connection issues at times, often because some employees are downloading something they should not -- so we made a strong policy with disciplinary actions spelled out and made it clear that the system can't handle employees downloading or shopping. |