Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) in healthcare is a wireless communication technology that utilizes electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects or individuals. Unlike traditional barcodes, RFID does not require a direct line of sight; instead, it relies on the interaction between a reader (interrogator) and a tag (transponder). This interaction is governed by the laws of induction and backscatter, allowing for the simultaneous scanning of hundreds of items in a high-density clinical setting.

In medical applications, the choice of frequency is critical. Low Frequency (LF) and High Frequency (HF) systems are typically used for short-range applications like patient wristbands or blood bag tracking due to their ability to function near liquids and metals. Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) systems are preferred for long-range asset tracking and inventory management. For a detailed breakdown of the hardware components and frequency standards used across global healthcare systems, the Healthcare RFID Market overview provides a technical analysis of current device configurations. This frequency-specific engineering ensures that the signals do not interfere with sensitive life-support equipment or imaging modalities like MRI.

The integration of RFID into the hospital ecosystem enables a "Real-Time Location System" (RTLS). This allows administrators to visualize the movement of portable equipment, such as infusion pumps and ventilators, ensuring they are always available when a patient’s condition deteriorates. By digitizing the physical environment, RFID provides the data infrastructure necessary for "Smart Hospitals," where operational efficiency is directly linked to the precision of wireless data capture.