Introduction of Near Field Communication for file sharing system in radiotherapy

Abstract

Abstract Near Field Communication (NFC) is an extension of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, enabling contactless wireless communication for easy and quick access to specific information. In this study, we aim to assess the NFC capability in the radiotherapy department and develop a file sharing system using NFC tags. We utilized the battery-less NFC tag (MM-NFCT, SANWA SUPPLY INC., Okayama, Japan), which can be placed anywhere due to its sealed one side. We uploaded various types of files and movies to be shared on Google Drive, and the sharing URL was stored in the NFC tag using a NFC application. We also provided examples of utilizing the NFC tag and examined suitable document types for sharing in the radiotherapy department. Additionally, we investigated 28 smartphones for NFC technology compatibility. Manually describing treatment planning procedures and institution-specific margin recipes of planning target volume in each tumor site is suitable for sharing via the NFC tag. By placing the NFC tag at work locations, simply touching it with a smartphone grants immediate access to these documents for confirmation. Regarding smartphone compatibility with NFC tags, 25 out of 28 individuals (approximately 89%) were able to identify the NFC tag. The NFC technology is introduced at a low cost for work efficiency. It is useful to quickly access desired information in a radiotherapy department, such as treatment planning manuals and checklists. The NFC system allows for the development of a specific-institution radiotherapy environment, enabling the sharing of various documents and NFC tag placements as desired.