Choosing the right mobility solution can make or break the operational efficiency of a healthcare organization. Two key players in shared device management, BlueFletch and Imprivata, offer cutting-edge solutions for secure device access and workforce productivity in healthcare environments. But how do they stack up against each other? This post breaks down their offerings, strengths, and limitations, helping healthcare providers make an informed choice to fit their unique needs.
Why the Right Solution Matters in Healthcare IT
Healthcare IT faces unique challenges. Clinicians need instant access to devices while maintaining compliance with strict security and privacy regulations like HIPAA. Every second counts when accessing patient data, and seamless technology integration into workflows is critical to delivering high-quality care. An effective solution not only keeps devices and data secure but also empowers caregivers by reducing friction, improving efficiency, and enhancing the user experience.
This is where shared device solutions like BlueFletch and Imprivata come in. Both promise secure device access and streamlined workflows, but understanding their differences is key to making the right choice for your organization.
BlueFletch Overview
BlueFletch specializes in mobile security, shared device management, and user productivity solutions tailored for shared Android devices. The BlueFletch Toolset comprises a range of powerful tools designed to enhance security, improve usability, and enhance the end-user experience, providing the best possible patient care.
Key Features of BlueFletch
- Launcher & Customizable UI: A role-based home screen that only shows apps relevant to the logged-in user, improving usability and security.
- Secure Authentication: Multiple login options, including NFC badges, RFID scanning, biometric authentication (facial recognition and fingerprint scanning), and PIN codes.
- Single Sign-On (SSO): Supports SSO for web apps, legacy apps, and custom workflows through integration with identity providers like Azure AD, Okta, Ping, and more.
- Device Finder: Tracks lost or misplaced devices with real-time telemetry, location alarms, and accountability trails.
- Support Tools: Includes analytics, login telemetry, and self-service password reset for streamlined IT operations.
- Hardware and IdP-Agnostic: Works across all Android devices (e.g., Zebra, Samsung, Honeywell) and integrates seamlessly with any identity provider, whether you’re using a cloud-based, on-prem, or hybrid solution.
Advantages of BlueFletch
- Flexibility: Compatible with diverse hardware and identity providers, giving organizations freedom from vendor lock-in.
- Enhanced Security: Biometric authentication, multi-factor options, and advanced SSO capabilities differentiate BlueFletch in secure environments.
- Proactive Device Management: Tools like lost-device alarms and analytics reduce device downtime and enhance IT efficiency.
- Cost-Effective Ownership: BlueFletch licenses are device-based, avoiding the per-user charges associated with competitors like Imprivata.
Imprivata Overview
Imprivata is a well-known player in healthcare IT, offering solutions tailored to clinical workflows. Their Mobile Device Access (MDA) solution extends their OneSign SSO platform to mobile devices, with features designed specifically for environments where shared devices are common.
Key Features of Imprivata Mobile Device Access
- NFC Badge Authentication: Log in and out with a simple badge tap for speed and ease.
- SSO Integration: Seamless login to EHRs and other clinical apps such as Epic and Cerner through desktop-like single sign-on.
- Compliance Logging: Detailed user session data ensures auditability and supports compliance with HIPAA.
- Device Locking & Logout: Automatically locks devices when not in use to protect sensitive patient data.
Advantages of Imprivata
- Healthcare Focus: Built specifically for clinical workflows, Imprivata aligns seamlessly with the needs of care teams.
- Badge Compatibility: Ideal for hospitals already using Imprivata badges for desktop and workstation login.
- Audit Trails: Provides robust logging for compliance reporting and GDPR/HIPAA requirements.
However, Imprivata MDA is less flexible in terms of authentication options and device compatibility. It primarily excels in environments using iOS or specific Android models and requires an upfront setup, as well as user-based licensing fees, which can add up for large organizations.
Direct Feature Comparison
Here’s how BlueFletch and Imprivata stack up across critical categories:
User Authentication and SSO
- BlueFletch: Offers robust SSO with multiple authentication methods, including NFC, RFID scanning, biometrics, PINs, and even passwordless workflows. Supports both modern and legacy applications with various integrations available for complete flexibility.
- Imprivata: Focuses on NFC badge tap and PIN for authentication, with limited support for biometrics. Primarily aligned to existing desktop SSO infrastructure.
Winner: BlueFletch for flexibility and broader authentication options.
Device Management and Security
- BlueFletch: Includes advanced security features such as device location alarms, automated logout when docked, and whole device analytics to track usage patterns and prevent loss.
- Imprivata: Standard locking and session timeout features, but lacks tools for advanced device security like real-time monitoring and analytics.
Winner: BlueFletch for comprehensive device management and actionable security insights.
Device and Support Tools
- BlueFletch: Streamlines IT operations with remote management, session telemetry, and self-service password resets, reducing the IT burden and time associated with troubleshooting.
- Imprivata: Largely focused on SSO integration, but offers limited device management or support-related tools.
Winner: BlueFletch for value-added tools to support IT teams.
Compatibility and Integration
- BlueFletch: Works across all major Android hardware brands and integrates with any identity solution, ensuring vendor neutrality.
- Imprivata: Primarily aligned with iOS and a narrower range of Android devices used in healthcare. Requires extensive integration upfront.
Winner: BlueFletch for hardware agnosticism and compatibility with diverse systems.
Scalability and Cost
- BlueFletch: Licenses by device with no implementation fees, offering excellent cost predictability for organizations managing large fleets.
- Imprivata: Charges per user and per device, with additional implementation costs, making scaling less predictable.
Winner: BlueFletch for cost advantage and scalability.
Shared Device Environments
- Android vs. iOS: BlueFletch focuses on optimizing shared Android devices, which are increasingly dominant in clinical mobility due to their cost-effectiveness and customizability. By comparison, Imprivata prioritizes iOS.
- Shared Device Model vs. BYOD: BlueFletch eliminates the complexity and security risks associated with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) models by providing clear tracking and role-based permissions for shared devices.
Winner: BlueFletch for improving the efficiency and security of shared Android devices in healthcare.
Key Considerations for Healthcare Organizations
1. Security and Compliance:
Healthcare requires strict compliance with safety protocols, from HIPAA to GDPR. BlueFletch’s advanced device tracking, secure logins, and audit trails enhance accountability while ensuring devices remain compliant.
2. Integration with Existing Systems:
BlueFletch’s compatibility with identity providers like Okta, Ping, Sailpoint, and proprietary EHR solutions makes deployment seamless, even in hybrid environments.
3. Scalability and Cost-Effectiveness:
BlueFletch’s per-device pricing minimizes costs for hospitals with large workforces sharing devices across shifts, making it a scalable solution with a clear ROI.
4. Android as the Preferred Healthcare Platform:
Many healthcare providers are transitioning to Android due to its open ecosystem, affordability, and ability to support a wide range of device types. BlueFletch’s focus on Android solidifies its position as the go-to partner for shared devices.
5. BYOD Challenges vs. Shared Device Benefits:
Switching from BYOD to shared devices simplifies workflows, minimizes security risks, and enhances user experience, all while reducing costs. BlueFletch is built for precisely this transition.
Making Your Decision
Both BlueFletch and Imprivata offer unique benefits, but the right choice depends on your organization’s priorities. For hospitals heavily invested in iOS or Imprivata’s ecosystem, sticking with Imprivata MDA might offer convenience. However, for organizations looking for flexibility, advanced security, device tracking, and cost-effective shared device management tailored for Android, BlueFletch emerges as the stronger choice.
Enhance your hospital’s efficiency, protect sensitive data, and improve user experience with BlueFletch’s clinical-grade mobility solution.
Request a demo today to see how BlueFletch can streamline your shared device workflows.
