Royal Cornwall Hospital Introduces Fingerprint Access to Neonatal Unit

Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust has introduced a new biometric fingerprint security system in the Neonatal Unit at Royal Cornwall Hospital, changing how parents and authorised visitors access the ward.

The new system replaces traditional entry methods with secure fingerprint authentication. It is designed to ensure that only approved individuals can enter, while reducing interruptions for clinical staff.

A Safer and Easier Experience for Parents

The technology is powered by Suprema BioStar and allows parents to come and go without needing to ring a bell or wait for staff to open the door.

John Clague, Transformation Manager at RCHT, said:
“My son was born in Princess Alexandra Maternity Wing a few years ago and I would often have to wait 20 to 30 minutes for a busy member of staff to let me in. I would’ve welcomed this technology, it would have meant I could see my wife and son without needing to ring the bell, and that I could easily leave the ward to get her some food or drink without having to worry that it may take a wait to get back into the unit. This is another example of how we are embracing technology to improve the experience of our patients.”

How the System Protects Families

The fingerprint system is fully accredited to ISO standards. All data is encrypted and automatically deleted once a baby is discharged from the unit.

Additional security features include CCTV monitoring and anti-tailgating reminders to prevent unauthorised access.

Supporting Staff During Critical Care

Robin Martin, Neonatal Equipment Manager, said the system had been a long time in development.

“Introducing this system has been a long journey, but one that was absolutely worth it. Our priority was to make the ward safer and more accessible for parents while reducing the burden on clinical staff. Seeing it in action and knowing it’s helping families during such a critical time is incredibly rewarding.”

Looking Ahead to the New Women and Children’s Hospital

The fingerprint access system will be monitored and evaluated over the coming months. It forms part of a wider programme of technology-led improvements linked to the new Women and Children’s Hospital, which is planned to open in 2030.

While the current system may not be the final long-term solution, the Trust says it will provide valuable insight into what works best before a permanent system is put in place.