Healthcare workers are the first line of defense in the direst of situations, so they must have access to the most efficient tools. Mobile devices have enabled them to streamline their work process and find better care solutions. However, not all phones are created equal. Picking the best device is imperative in maintaining an effective workflow.
Here’s a list of the top 10 phones for healthcare workers that will help them successfully tackle their work tasks.
Top 10 Phones for Healthcare Workers
CAT S62 Pro
The CAT S62 Pro boasts the latest rugged device technology. A unique rugged smartphone, the cutting-edge design qualifies it as a relatively lightweight device. However, while it’s built to withstand various challenging conditions, at 248 grams, it does feel heavy.
The plastic surface is dotted with a specialized pattern that provides users with a firm grip. Therefore, the phone is perfect for environments where professionals are required to wear gloves. Also, the Glove Mode feature can be turned on and off easily, according to user preference.
The fingerprint lock works seamlessly, but some users will be disappointed with the lack of a face recognition unlocking option.
What makes the CAT S62 Pro a viable option is its thermal imaging sensor. At first glance, it seems well-suited for construction work, where it’s essential to detect damp areas, leaks, and blockages.
However, the thermal imaging capability can also convert the phone into an emergency thermometer that measures employees’ and patients’ body temperature. While it wasn’t designed to function as a full-blown medical tool, it comes in handy when quick action is needed.
The formidable hardware comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 6600 CPU and a RAM of 6 GB. The phone can then operate without a hitch, even when running several programs simultaneously.
The battery can last up to two days, so the device is an excellent pick for professionals with hectic schedules.
Additionally, the 12mp back camera provides excellent sharpness, making it easy to snap quality pictures of important documentation. The storage space will also house any reports, images, or files required to perform daily tasks and manage information.
CAT S42 H+
While the CAT S42 H+ looks and feels thick and heavy, it remains relatively easy to operate.
The device makes up for its bulkiness with reinforced edges that protect it from drops and keep it water and dust-resistant.
The 6 GB RAM and 32 GB internal storage are limiting, but users can insert a 128 GB microSD card for extra storage space.
The restricted RAM means that swiping through the device and switching between different apps can get slow at times. This isn’t a big issue since the CAT S42 H+ was designed as a business phone. It wasn’t made to provide entertainment but to withstand demanding and fast-paced work environments, as is reflected in its performance.
The functional 13mp back camera won’t snap impressive artistic photos but works great for documentation.
An upside of the 3 GB RAM is that it doesn’t require too much power, making for longer battery life. While the battery is non-replaceable, the simplicity of the hardware allows the phone to function for up to one day without recharging.
The phone’s exterior makes it especially appealing to the medical workforce. The surface indentations stop the phone from slipping out of coats, uniforms, and bags.
Finally, the touchscreen can be handled perfectly with gloved hands, making information gathering and communication quicker and stress-free.
CAT S22 Flip
This innovative device combines the nostalgic feel of traditional flip phones with the modern simplicity of smartphones.
You might think that a flip phone would be hefty, but at 224g, the CAT S22 Flip feels surprisingly lightweight. It’s well-designed, with an exterior matte black coating that makes it easy to hold onto, even with wet hands. The back ridges also give users a better grip.
The 2 GB RAM and 26 GB storage might seem modest, but the device comes with microSD card support to bypass any storage issues.
However, the flip phone’s most impressive feature is the Google Play Store Compatibility. With access to essential apps like Gmail, Chrome, Google Assistant, and Messages, the CAT S22 Flip streamlines communication and cooperation.
The 5mp rear camera is decent for a flip phone but nowhere near the quality of other smart devices. However, when the phone is flipped closed, the back camera acts as an external display, showing notifications and incoming calls.
The removable battery can power the phone for up to three days, depending on which software is active. As the minimalism of the design allows only for essential communication when the device is closed, the CAT S22 is a tool well-suited for unpredictable shift work.
Sonim RS60
The Sonim RS60 is a stand-out among its competitors. Its impressive Qualcomm MSM8953 Pro processor enables flawless functioning even when several complex apps are running.
The phone’s exterior checks all the right boxes for healthcare workers.
The Gorilla Glass 3 adds another layer of protection to the already rugged device. Also, the overall design is user-friendly, so handling the phone with gloved hands or wet fingers is no issue. The Sonim RS60 is not only dust-resistant and waterproof but chemical-resistant as well. When working in areas full of microbes and chemicals and there’s a chase of contamination, a phone that’s easy to disinfect is invaluable.
The high-performing battery is replaceable and can serve users for 22 hours. Additionally, the built-in barcode scanner operates well, even in bad lighting. A scanner is a time-saving tool for medical staff, allowing them to quickly access patient histories or treatment records.
However, one possible drawback is its weight. At 396 grams, it’s a heavier device. But the consistent high performance and durability make up for the heftiness.
Google Pixel 3
This beautiful Google device is compact, setting it apart from other bulkier smartphones. Its practical size doesn’t come at the expense of display quality.
It has a 5.5-inch display that is bright and supports the features of the single back camera. The Night Sight feature is particularly impressive. Google’s built-in AI technology lets the phone take detailed photos even in bad lighting, eliminating the need for a flash.
However, it’s worth noting that the back of the device is prone to slipping. This makes the surface susceptible to scratches and could potentially damage the camera.
Although Google Pixel 3 comes with a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor, it only allows 4 GB of RAM. MicroSD storage expansion is also not possible.
The small size is perfect for handling the device with one hand only, but it limits battery life. On the other hand, the phone supports fast charging to be up and running in no time.
Samsung Galaxy A70
At 183 grams, the Samsung Galaxy A70 is a lightweight phone with a sleek and large display. While this makes file viewing more convenient, it also means that the 6.7-inch touchscreen requires an adjustment period. Managing the phone with one hand may be challenging, raising the chances of unexpected drops. However, the display comes with Gorilla Glass 3 protection, minimizing the risk of significant damage.
The interface is reasonably responsive, although the fingerprint unlocking feature may at times be slower than expected from a smartphone. However, users don’t seem to experience any delays when unlocking their phones via face recognition.
With Qualcomm Snapdragon 675 as the processor, this Samsung product has 6GB of RAM, so it’s capable of running several apps and programs without draining the battery too quickly. Furthermore, the 4,500 mAh battery supports fast charging, so the phone is a reliable companion for long shifts in any medical institution. Keep in mind that it’s still a bigger device that won’t easily fit into bag or coat pockets for all its functionalities.
Huawei Honor 8X
The combination of glass and metal gives the Huawei Honor 8X a modern and stylish design.
While it may be best suited for media consumption due to its large and bright display, several features help it double as a good work phone. The HiSilicon Kirin 710 SOC chipset carries 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. Accessing your files is relatively straightforward since the fingerprint reader works without significant delay.
While the Huawei Honor 8X can hold its own in both work and casual settings, it’s primarily a commercial phone.
Its battery life amounts to about a day, but it can take as many as two hours to fully charge the phone since there’s no fast charging support. While this may seem like a drawback, it’s a result of the phone’s overall consistent performance. Switching between apps takes no time, and the device won’t freeze up when running power-draining software.
Samsung Galaxy S10
The Samsung Galaxy S10’s design gives the device a polished look with its beautiful glass-covered exterior. While this aesthetic choice doesn’t protect the phone from scratches, the device is waterproof, essential for all business phones.
Its most valuable asset is the 3,400 mAh battery which can withstand up to 18 hours of continuous use. However, the battery can monitor and adjust power consumption. It records when the phone is usually used. This information helps the device determine which apps should be shut down for optimal performance and longevity.
The slightly 157 grams smartphone is dust and dirt-resistant, but the sensitive touchscreen will likely suffer significant damage when dropped.
However, the Samsung Galaxy S10 could work as a virtual assistant when handled with care, thanks to Samsung’s Bixby interface. Bixby lets users establish routines and uses them to control the phone’s behavior. For example, the phone will automatically connect to the workplace network and pull up a list of appointments and tasks. It’s a valuable feature for employees who have a heavy workload and whose job is to take care of others.
Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G
The Poco M3 Pro is a blend of powerful smart technology and affordability.
Its MediaTek MT6833 Dimensity 700 5G chipset and 6 GB of RAM help the device operate several programs simultaneously. While the phone usually holds up just fine, the response time may vary, and sometimes there are long delays when switching between apps. However, increasing the storage with a microSD card helps quicken the response speed.
Unfortunately, the phone has no added protection and should be handled with care to avoid dust or water damage.
What truly makes the Poco M3 Pro 5G an option worth considering is the battery life. The whopping 5,000 mAh battery is non-removable, but it’s unlikely that any Xiaomi user would want a different one. The phone can endure up to 121 hours of operation, which makes up for the occasional slow response.
OnePlus 9
OnePlus’s flagship model features a decent-sized 6.55-inch screen that supports many colors while not using up too much battery life. This compact size works with the 4,500 mAh battery to keep the phone going for up to 23 hours. Even when the device is completely drained of power, it takes a mere half-hour to bump the battery to 100%. It’s great for emergencies when you have to rush into work, as you can quickly charge it wherever you go.
Due to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor and 8 GB of RAM, the phone is very responsive. It supports many complex programs and launches apps with no lagging.
This model comes with no official ingress protection (IP), so it’s best to keep it away from dust and water. Users who want to enjoy the phone’s features without worrying about durability sometimes invest in a sturdier phone case.
What Are the Phone Requirements for a Healthcare Worker
A durable phone with the right size and a long-lasting battery helps healthcare workers maximize productivity.
Medical professionals are responsible for the patient’s well-being, coming up with the most effective treatment plans, and collaborating with colleagues to manage the workload more effectively. Having the right phone doesn’t just provide them with a better line of communication. It also quickens their response time to fully dedicate their care and attention to those who need it most.
A compact smartphone is the most practical choice. Medical staff can carry it on hand at all times, tracking urgent developments and monitoring treatment progress. Smartphones can be the medical industry’s most powerful tool, as cloud storage enables workers to access medical records at any given time.
What’s more, the phone needs to keep up with healthcare workers’ long hours. With medical staff working day-long shifts when public healthcare is at risk, a device that’s able to support a productive workflow has become a necessity.
The phone’s durability is another crucial factor. Devices that can resist dust, dirt, water, and chemicals are the best choice. They’ll last for years to come, ensuring that medical data is organized and well-protected.
Top 5 Apps for Healthcare Workers
These five apps can help healthcare workers maximize their efficiency.
Medscape
This free app is a virtual treasure trove of crucial concepts in the medical world. It was designed to help medical staff quickly access critical information to improve their knowledge and enhance patient treatment. The app is available for Android and iOS devices.
PowerChart Touch
A helpful time management app, it also allows users to organize patient data into easy-to-understand charts. It minimizes administrative work so that healthcare professionals can focus more on the hands-on part of their jobs.
QxMD Calculate
A collection of numerous medical calculators, the app aids doctors and nurses in decision-making, helping them achieve the best outcomes for their patients. QxMD Calculate works with Android and iOS phones.
Epocrates
Epocrates is a rich resource that logs detailed information on thousands of medicine. Healthcare workers can use it to adjust treatment plans and find an alternative medication that would better suit the needs of their patients. It’s available on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
Medici
The app lets healthcare professionals schedule online appointments and collaborate with other colleagues. E-prescription is another time-saving feature. Android and iOS devices support the app.
Top Cell Phone Plans for Healthcare Workers
Here’s a round-up of some of the best phone plans for healthcare workers.
- Verizon Unlimited
Verizon’s unlimited mobile plan comes with a 25% discount for nurses and respiratory therapists.
- AT&T Unlimited
AT&T is honoring healthcare workers by offering them a 25% discount on all of the company’s unlimited plans. The offer also extends to the families of the medical workers, which sweetens the deal.
- T-Mobile Magenta
Initially only available to first responders, all healthcare workers are eligible for T-Mobile’s discount. Monthly plans start at $25 per phone line.
Talk to a Tech Expert
Healthcare workers are essential in protecting everyone’s safety and well-being, and they should have access to the best tools. A phone that rises to the occasion and meets the medical industry’s demands helps these essential workers increase productivity and create a motivating workspace. Before committing to a particular phone, you should reach out to a tech expert.
The Energy Electronics team has the knowledge and experience to guide you toward the best choice. Feel free to contact us to learn more about which cell phone may be right for you.
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