UPMC taps Alcatel-Lucent IP and optical networking technology for healthcare 'big data'

UPMC, a healthcare provider in western Pennsylvania, has chosen Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) to supply IP and optical transport technology to help its network accommodate ever-larger data demands.

The UPMC network provides communications services to hospitals, doctors' offices, and other sites throughout western Pennsylvania. UPMC’s heath systems include 20 hospitals, 3400 doctors, and more than 55,000 employees. The network will enable medical personnel to improve point-of-care decisions, reduce readmissions, and improve operations.

"Here at UPMC we see our network as a vital tool to support our mission - providing our patients with world-class healthcare. Our ongoing network modernization is ensuring that we remain at the forefront of healthcare innovation,” said William Hanna, vice president, technical services, Information Services Division of UPMC. “This new project with Alcatel-Lucent, the latest step in our longstanding collaboration, will enable us to not only increase the capacity of our network, but to make our entire enterprise smarter and more efficient, and ultimately improve patient care throughout the UPMC system."

Alcatel-Lucent will supply its new 7950 XRS router family as well as 100-Gbps coherent transmission capabilities via its 1830 Photonic Service Switch (PSS).

"The 'big data' needs of large-scale enterprises such as UPMC are breaking down the barriers between traditional IT systems and communications networks,” commented Michel Emelianoff, president, Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise said. “This project with UPMC offers a great example of how advanced IP and fiber optic technologies can enhance the operations of enterprises in a wide array of fields. We are particularly thrilled to play such a critical role in bringing improved healthcare services to the communities that UPMC serves."

For more information on high-speed transmission systems and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.