Protecting Speech Privacy at a Modern Neurology Practice

Like all doctor’s offices, the neurology office of Dr. Martin Assenmacher, Sebastian Riedel, and Christoph Sevenich in Bergisch Gladbach, Germany deals with sensitive patient data every day. Protecting patient privacy is not only important for delivering a superior patient experience but is also required by German law. This includes both data transferred electronically, but also by word of mouth — it’s important that patients in the waiting area can’t overhear other patients checking in with the receptionist, or that discussions between doctors and patients in treatment rooms aren’t overheard by unintended listeners.

“We wanted our patients to have a sense of privacy in our practice, and also to know that their medical data was being protected. Thanks to the technical know-how of prodyTel and the sound masking technology of Cambridge Sound Management, we now have a tailor-made and scalable solution.” – Dr. Martin Assenmacher, Neurology Specialist, Offices of Martin Assenmacher, Christoph Sevenich, and Sebastian Riedel

Solution

Network audio and video solutions provider ProdyTel suggested sound masking might help cut down on speech privacy issues at the practice. After a thorough pre-test, the practice’s doctors decided to have sound masking from Cambridge Sound Management installed in the space. Sound masking technology works by adding a low level, unobtrusive background sound (similar to the sound of airflow) to an environment through speakers installed in the ceiling. The speakers connect via standard Category cables to a control module which the practice decided to wall mount behind the reception desk.

Result

A More Private Practice

The ambient, specially optimized sound masking drastically reduces the intelligibility of human speech in the practice, making the office measurably more acoustically comfortable and private. While the practice is open, the sound masking system is constantly in operation. The system works so well that speech taking place in the exam rooms cannot be overheard in the waiting room even when the exam room door is left open. “We’re very happy with the sound masking system from Cambridge Sound Management” says Dr. Martin Assenmacher, one of the doctors at the practice. “The privacy and confidentiality of conversations between patients and staff are much improved since the system was installed.”

About Biamp
Biamp® is a leading provider of innovative, networked media systems that power the world’s most sophisticated audiovisual installations. The company is recognized worldwide for delivering high-quality products and backing each one with a commitment to exceptional customer service.

Recipient of the Frost & Sullivan 2018 Global Installed Audio Conferencing Enabling Technology Leadership Award, Biamp is dedicated to creating products that drive the evolution of communication through sight and sound. The award-winning Biamp product suite includes: Tesira® media system for digital audio and video networking, Devio® collaboration tool for modern workplaces, Audia® digital audio platform, Nexia® digital signal processors, Vocia® networked public address and voice evacuation system, Cambridge® sound masking solutions, and loudspeakers for installed sound applications from Community Loudspeakers® and Apart Audio®. Each has its own specific feature set that can be customized and integrated in a wide range of applications, including corporate boardrooms, conference centers, huddle rooms, open floor environments, performing arts venues, courtrooms, hospitals, transportation hubs, campuses, retail, hospitality, military and government, and multi-building facilities.

Founded in 1976, Biamp is headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, USA, with additional offices around the globe. For more information on Biamp, please visit www.biamp.com.