The collaboration has resulted in a comprehensive patient identification system called PatientSecure that incorporates the Fujitsu trademarked PalmSecure biometric authentication sensor and technology from HT Systems' that protects patients from identity theft and insurance fraud.

"PatientSecure has already been deployed at Carolinas HealthCare System, a 19-hospital health system, creating the largest user base for any biometrically powered patient registration solution in North America," said Joel Hagberg, vice president, marketing and business development, Fujitsu Computer Products of America, in a statement. "We believe that through our alliance with HT Systems, the patients and hospital staff that interact with the PatientSecure solution will provide a greater sense of security in today's modern world of medicine."

Using near infrared light to capture the vein pattern in a patient's palm, Fujitsu's PalmSecure biometric authentication sensor providing a highly reliable and accurate form of authentication. The palm vein image is converted into a digital record that is associated with a patient's medical records.

"By implementing PatientSecure, hospitals realize an immediate increase in staff efficiency and patient satisfaction," said David Wiener, vice president, sales and marketing, HT Systems. "Registration and re-admittance times for patients are reduced five to ten fold. In addition, because the patient's biometric information is married to the patient's medical record, you can be certain that the right medical care is given to the right person."

Officials say the two companies plan to demonstrate the PatientSecure device at the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management Conference.