Biloxi VA using smart disinfecting robot to fight germs

Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System employees are using an advanced method of disinfecting facility areas. This directly impacts the health and safety of Veterans visiting the organization’s clinics.

Environmental Management Service (EMS) began training and certification on use of the Tru-D Smart UVC Disinfection robot cleaning system in late 2020. The robot ensures EMS continues the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations for infection control in medical facility settings.

Its creators designed the Tru-D Smart UVC Disinfection Robot to deliver a measured dose of UVC light to consistently inactivate pathogens on hard, nonporous surfaces. It operates from one position in a room, bathing an area in UVC light, proven to significantly reduce pathogens.

Effective tool in neutralizing bacteria and viruses

“UVC wavelengths can be germicidal,” said Kelvin Spencer, an EMS environmental care specialist (pictured above). That means they are capable of inactivating microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses.

“UVC light like the kind produced by the robot is an effective tool in neutralizing bacteria and viruses,” he said. “We’re excited to have this option to ensure our facilities are clean for our Veterans.”

The health care system acquired four of the robots. Two for use at the Biloxi VA Medical Center. One for use at the Joint Ambulatory Care Center in Pensacola, Florida, and one for use in the Eglin and Panama City Beach Community Based Outpatient Clinics.

Spencer added that EMS personnel will still employ traditional housekeeping functions. He expects the disinfection robot will be a welcome addition to the daily cleaning routines.

Eliminating chemicals an additional level of safety

“When we have cleaned areas of our facilities, we’ve introduced different chemical agents into the environment,” Spencer said. “While these are safe and approved, by using the robot, we’re eliminating these, providing an additional level of safety for our Veterans.”

The GCVHCS headquarters is in Biloxi, Mississippi. It provides medical outpatient services to more than 70,000 Veterans along the Gulf Coast in Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.

Bruce Cummins is a public affairs specialist for the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System in Biloxi, MS.