April 01, 2025
Aged care providers face increasing digital demands, necessitating secure, high-performance networking solutions to enhance resident care, improve operational efficiency, and safeguard sensitive data. A well-designed network infrastructure is essential for ensuring reliable connectivity, intelligent cybersecurity, and seamless network management.
To deliver high-quality care and maintain secure operations, aged care providers require a networking solution that:
Secure, segmented Wi-Fi for diverse needs
Aged care facilities require configurable Wi-Fi solutions that provide secure, segregated access for different user groups, including staff, residents, visitors, and operational technology (OT) devices such as nurse-call pendants and monitoring systems.
Impact: Minimises the risk of cyber incidents that could lead to costly data breaches, regulatory fines, and reputational damage.
Reliable connectivity for critical applications
Unstable internet connectivity can compromise resident care, disrupt communication, and reduce operational efficiency. Reliable, seamless connectivity is essential for cloud-based resident management, telehealth services, and real-time collaboration.
Impact: Avoids costly service disruptions and enhances the continuity of care, leading to improved resident outcomes and operational efficiency.
Centralised management and simplified deployment
With stretched IT resources, aged care providers require a scalable, easy-to-manage networking solution.
Impact: Lowers IT operational costs while increasing agility, allowing for faster facility expansions and upgrades without additional IT burden.
Strengthened security posture
Aged care facilities are frequent targets for cyberattacks due to the sensitive nature of resident data. Robust network security is critical to prevent breaches, ransomware, and unauthorised access.
Impact: Reduces the risk of costly cybersecurity incidents, protecting both financial assets and resident trust.
Secure support for Operational Technology (OT) devices
Nurse-call systems, monitoring devices, smartphones, and medical sensors require a dedicated, secure Wi-Fi network to ensure reliability and data protection.
Impact: Prevents disruptions to critical care systems, reducing downtime and enhancing staff efficiency.
A high-performance networking solution is a strategic investment that delivers measurable financial and operational benefits. By minimising downtime, providers can reduce operational losses and IT costs while strengthening security to prevent costly data breaches and ensure regulatory compliance. This reliability extends to staff efficiency, with automated network management reducing administrative tasks so caregivers can focus more on resident care. As aged care providers grow, scalable solutions enable seamless expansion without heavy infrastructure investments, supporting long-term sustainability. At the same time, consistent and high-quality connectivity enhances the resident experience, improving satisfaction, reputation, and occupancy rates. Ultimately, a secure, future-ready network lays the foundation for digital transformation, enabling the adoption of innovative technologies that drive efficiency, cost savings, and better care outcomes.
A robust Wi-Fi infrastructure does more than enhance security and operations—it becomes a key driver of growth and competitiveness. Reliable, high-speed internet improves the resident experience, enabling premium pricing models that justify higher-value services. This connectivity also supports telehealth expansion, reducing the need for in-person consultations while improving healthcare accessibility and lowering costs. Smart IoT solutions further optimise operations by enabling predictive maintenance and efficient resource management, cutting unnecessary expenses. At the same time, personalised digital engagement enhances resident well-being and strengthens a facility’s reputation as an innovative leader. Secure mobile access to resident records then ties everything together, empowering staff with real-time information for faster decision-making, reducing administrative burdens, and ultimately delivering better care outcomes.
Investing in a robust network is key to ensuring security, efficiency, and long-term growth. Strengthening cybersecurity reduces financial risk by preventing data breaches and maintaining compliance, safeguarding both residents and operations. As aged care providers scale, flexible, enterprise-grade solutions adapt seamlessly to support both boutique facilities and large networks. Cloud-based and automated management further enhances efficiency, streamlining IT operations and reducing overhead costs. A secure, high-performance network infrastructure is no longer optional; it is a strategic investment that drives long-term growth, efficiency, and superior care outcomes. Partner with trusted networking providers, and gain the expertise needed to navigate an increasingly digital landscape, staying competitive while delivering high-quality care.
Author
Veenu Kandasamy, Fortinet presales engineer, Connected Health, Wavelink
As a Fortinet Presales Engineer, Veenu specialises in designing and delivering cybersecurity solutions that help organisations strengthen their security posture. With deep expertise in Fortinet’s comprehensive security portfolio, Veenu assists businesses in navigating complex cybersecurity challenges by identifying risks, optimising network architectures, and implementing tailored security strategies. Working closely with clients, Veenu ensures that security infrastructures are robust, scalable, and aligned with business objectives. As a trusted advisor, Veenu provides strategic guidance to maximise the value of cybersecurity investments, enhancing both protection and operational efficiency.
