The FCC on May 24th adopted rules to enable Medical Body Area Networks (MBAN), a low-power wideband network consisting of multiple body-worn sensors to be capable of transmitting patient data to a control device. MBANs provide a cost effective way to monitor every patients in a healthcare institution.
MBAN devices are being designed to be deployed widely within a hospital and will make use of inexpensive disposable body worn sensors. The technology also makes it easier to move patients to different parts of the healthcare facility for treatment and gives healthcare providers the chance to identify life threatening problems or events before they reach critical levels.
All MBAN use of the 2360-2390 MHz band at healthcare facilities will be subject to registration with an MBAN coordinator and additional coordination if warranted by locations. Use of this 30 MHz will be restricted to indoor operation at healthcare facilities.
The FCC order has allocated bandwidth at 2390-2400 MHz for MBAN use for other locations. It will accommodate MBAN use through an expansion of the existing Medical Device Radiocommunication (MedRadio) Service in Part 95 of the rules. This structure will permit MBAN devices to operate on a license-by-rule basis in which users will not have to apply for individual station licenses.
For more information email Brian Butler at Brian.Butler@fcc.gov or call (202) 418-2702.
