Tired of not knowing where your equipment is?
If you’re evaluating RTLS software like CenTrak, you’re likely frustrated by wasted staff hours searching for assets and paperwork, plus growing pressure to improve patient care and regulatory compliance.
But here’s the main problem: inefficient tracking directly delays patient treatment and increases costs every single day, making your job way harder than it should be.
CenTrak counters these issues with a multi-mode RTLS platform that combines real-time asset tracking, patient flow optimization, environmental monitoring, and hygiene compliance—all tailored for healthcare’s unique demands. After digging deep, I’ve found CenTrak stands out through precise location tech and smart use of automation.
In this review, I’ll show you how CenTrak helps eliminate wasted time and improves patient care so you can decide if it’s a real fix for your headaches.
You’ll find detailed, practical insights in this CenTrak review—including features, pricing, setup tips, pros/cons, and alternatives—so you can make the right call for your facility.
You’ll walk away knowing the features you need to get faster results and the confidence to take the next step.
Let’s dive into the analysis.
Quick Summary
- CenTrak is a healthcare-focused Real-Time Location System providing precise tracking and workflow automation across clinical and operational settings.
- Best for mid-to-large healthcare organizations needing accurate, scalable location visibility and compliance monitoring.
- You’ll appreciate its multi-mode technology that delivers room- and bed-level accuracy supporting diverse use cases from asset tracking to hand hygiene.
- CenTrak offers custom pricing with free demos and requires direct contact for detailed quotes tailored to your facility’s needs.
CenTrak Overview
CenTrak is a highly established provider of Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) for the medical sector. Operating out of Pennsylvania since 2005, their core mission is dedicated to improving how healthcare facilities operate.
What I find most compelling is their commitment to focus exclusively on the healthcare industry. This is not some generic platform adapted for hospitals; it’s purpose-built for the unique, high-stakes demands of clinical workflows and patient safety compliance.
Their continued investment into a sophisticated multi-mode technology platform is a key strategic move. You’ll see how this approach translates to very practical benefits as we go through this CenTrak review.
This is where they stand apart from competitors like Cisco or Zebra. While others adapt enterprise tech, CenTrak’s platform delivers truly clinical-grade locating with multiple technologies, giving you far more precise and reliable data.
They work with over 2,000 healthcare organizations worldwide, from massive hospital networks to specialized clinics. This widespread adoption is a strong indicator of their solution’s real-world scalability and trusted market position.
It’s clear their current strategy centers on translating raw location data into tangible ROI for your facility. They prioritize patient flow and asset utilization, directly addressing the immense pressure to improve operational efficiency.
Now let’s examine their core capabilities.
CenTrak Features
Is finding medical equipment like finding a needle in a haystack?
CenTrak is a multi-solution platform built on a Real-Time Location System (RTLS) that directly addresses core operational challenges in healthcare. These are the five core CenTrak solutions that improve efficiency and patient care.
1. Asset Tracking & Management
Wasting valuable staff time searching for equipment?
Manual searches for mobile medical equipment can significantly delay patient care and increase operational costs. This leads to frustrated staff and potential equipment loss.
CenTrak’s Asset Tracking & Management solution uses RTLS tags to provide real-time equipment location, drastically cutting search times. From my testing, this feature directly impacts patient care by ensuring essential tools are always available. It helps you optimize equipment fleets and maintain compliance, too.
This means you can quickly locate any IV pump or wheelchair, ensuring staff focuses on patients, not searching.
2. Patient Flow
Patient wait times causing bottlenecks and complaints?
Inefficient patient movement through departments can lead to long waits and a poor patient experience. This often stresses both patients and your clinical staff.
CenTrak’s Patient Flow solution leverages RTLS badges to automate arrival-to-discharge tracking and manage queuing. What I love about this approach is how it automatically notifies staff when a patient is ready, streamlining transitions between care stages. This solution provides real-time updates to reduce delays.
So you can drastically reduce patient wait times, making their journey smoother and improving overall satisfaction.
3. Staff Workflow
Struggling with manual documentation and communication gaps?
Traditional workflow processes often involve manual charting and disjointed communication, creating operational bottlenecks. This consumes valuable time that could be spent on patient care.
CenTrak’s Staff Workflow solution streamlines clinical operations by automating documentation of key milestones. This is where CenTrak shines, as it identifies bottlenecks and eliminates non-value tasks by analyzing trends. It improves communication, leading to quicker patient handoffs and more efficient care.
This means you can automate routine tasks, empowering your team to deliver faster, more effective patient care.
- 🎯 Bonus Resource: While CenTrak focuses on healthcare, if your operations involve precise material handling, my guide on best chemical software could be helpful.
4. Environmental Monitoring
Are you worried about critical samples or medications spoiling?
Inconsistent environmental conditions in storage or clinical areas can compromise sensitive materials. This risk can lead to significant financial losses and patient safety concerns.
CenTrak’s Environmental Monitoring provides automated, real-time tracking of temperature, humidity, and air pressure. Here’s what I found: it offers customizable alerts for immediate corrective action, crucial for ensuring compliance and preventing spoilage. These NIST-certified sensors ensure accuracy you can trust.
You get peace of mind knowing your critical assets are safely stored and environmental conditions are always optimal.
5. Hand Hygiene Compliance
Manual hand hygiene audits are time-consuming and inconsistent?
Relying on manual observation for hand hygiene often results in incomplete data and missed opportunities for intervention. This poses a significant risk for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).
CenTrak’s Hand Hygiene Compliance solution automates monitoring using RTLS and dispenser sensors. From my testing, this feature provides 100% capture of compliance events, offering detailed data by role or department. It can even provide gentle reminders via staff badges.
This means you can drastically reduce HAIs and potentially save millions annually, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Highly accurate Clinical-Grade Locating for precise tracking
- ✅ Multi-mode RTLS technology offers superior flexibility and scalability
- ✅ Comprehensive suite of healthcare-specific operational solutions
- ⚠️ Initial implementation and configuration may require dedicated effort
- ⚠️ Learning curve for staff due to platform’s extensive functionality
- ⚠️ Solution primarily focused on the healthcare industry’s unique needs
You’ll actually appreciate how these CenTrak features work together as an integrated RTLS platform that delivers comprehensive operational intelligence.
CenTrak Pricing
Navigating enterprise software costs can be tricky.
CenTrak pricing is a custom quote model, meaning you won’t find public tiers but will receive a tailored proposal based on your specific healthcare facility’s needs.
Cost Breakdown
- Base Platform: Custom quote
- User Licenses: Not applicable (solution-based)
- Implementation: Varies by complexity and scale
- Integrations:T Varies by complexity of existing systems (CMMS, EHR)
- Key Factors: Facility size, scope of RTLS deployment, solutions implemented
1. Pricing Model & Cost Factors
Their custom pricing approach.
CenTrak operates on a scalable, value-based pricing model, which means your costs will depend heavily on the specific solutions you choose and the size of your deployment. Pricing scales with your facility’s operational needs, covering factors like the number of assets, patients, or environmental monitoring points.
From my cost analysis, this ensures your budget aligns precisely with the value and scope you require.
- 🎯 Bonus Resource: While we’re discussing healthcare operational efficiency, understanding how patient intake software can automate processes is equally important.
2. Value Assessment & ROI
How does CenTrak justify its cost?
CenTrak’s solutions are designed to deliver significant ROI by reducing operating costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing patient care. For instance, automating temperature monitoring can save thousands of labor hours annually, proving the direct link between investment and operational savings.
This means your expenditure is an investment in long-term efficiency and reduced expenses, not just a recurring fee.
3. Budget Planning & Implementation
Consider total cost of ownership.
When budgeting for CenTrak, remember to factor in not just the core solution but also implementation, integration with your existing systems, and ongoing support. What I found regarding pricing is that initial setup can be substantial given the custom deployment, but the long-term operational gains offset these costs.
So for your budget, plan for a comprehensive investment that delivers continuous returns through improved workflows and compliance.
My Take: CenTrak’s pricing strategy focuses on delivering tailored value for complex healthcare environments, making it ideal for facilities prioritizing comprehensive solutions and measurable ROI.
The overall CenTrak pricing reflects a strategic investment in healthcare operational efficiency.
CenTrak Reviews
What do customers actually think?
I’ve dug into CenTrak reviews from platforms like Gartner Peer Insights to provide balanced insights into what real users experience with this RTLS software.
1. Overall User Satisfaction
Users seem quite pleased overall.
From my review analysis, CenTrak RTLS boasts impressively high user satisfaction, with 100% positive ratings from reviewers on Gartner Peer Insights. What I found in user feedback is how most users consistently award high marks, typically 4 or 5 stars, indicating strong approval across the board.
This suggests you can expect a very positive initial experience, review-wise.
2. Common Praise Points
The real-time precision is a clear winner.
Users consistently highlight CenTrak’s “Clinical-Grade Locating™” and its accuracy at room, bed, and bay levels. From the reviews I analyzed, the multi-mode technology provides remarkable flexibility, enabling true workflow automation and actionable data analytics for healthcare facilities.
This means you can rely on highly accurate data for optimizing your operations.
3. Frequent Complaints
Ease of use might be a learning curve.
While overall sentiment is positive, one review noted it’s an “Awesome platform but not easy to use.” What stands out is how deployment and configuration could require dedicated effort, potentially due to the system’s robust features and comprehensive nature.
These issues are often mitigated by CenTrak’s professional services, making them less of a deal-breaker.
What Customers Say
- Positive: “One of the best Healthcare RTLS. It has very rich features like real-time location sharing.” (Gartner Peer Insights)
- Constructive: “Awesome platform but not easy to use.” (Gartner Peer Insights)
- Bottom Line: “As it is battery operated functionalities available so it is more reliable.” (Gartner Peer Insights)
The CenTrak reviews indicate exceptionally high user satisfaction, with powerful features that might require some initial setup effort.
Best CenTrak Alternatives
Choosing the right RTLS for your healthcare facility?
The best CenTrak alternatives include several strong options, each better suited for different business situations, technological priorities, and integration needs.
1. Sonitor Technologies
Seeking ultra-precise, sub-room level accuracy?
Sonitor excels when your absolute priority is pinpoint accuracy achieved through their patented ultrasound technology, especially for specific critical areas. From my competitive analysis, Sonitor provides 100% room or sub-room level accuracy for environments where this precision is non-negotiable, though it’s a more specialized approach than CenTrak.
Choose Sonitor if their ultrasound-specific accuracy and integration align perfectly with your infrastructure needs.
2. Zebra MotionWorks
Already invested heavily in Zebra hardware?
Zebra MotionWorks makes more sense if you’re looking to leverage existing Zebra mobile computers, scanners, and printers for a cohesive technology ecosystem. What I found comparing options is that Zebra’s broad enterprise hardware portfolio integrates with their RTLS, offering a unified vendor experience for your organization.
Consider this alternative when you prefer a vendor with a broader technology footprint beyond just RTLS.
- 🎯 Bonus Resource: While we’re discussing alternative solutions, my analysis of best cemetery software might interest you.
3. Cisco Spaces
Heavily invested in Cisco networking infrastructure?
Cisco Spaces is ideal if you want to leverage your existing Cisco wireless networks for indoor location services, potentially offering a more cost-effective integration. Alternative-wise, Cisco Spaces integrates seamlessly with existing networks, which can simplify deployment, though it may lack CenTrak’s dedicated healthcare-specific precision.
Choose Cisco Spaces when your strong Cisco network backbone is a primary factor in your RTLS decision.
4. AiRISTA Flow
Prioritizing a BLE-focused RTLS solution?
AiRISTA Flow works well if your use case primarily centers on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tags and infrastructure across various industries. From my analysis, AiRISTA Flow offers a robust BLE-centric approach and broad industry experience as an alternative, though CenTrak provides greater multi-mode flexibility.
Consider this competitor when your needs specifically lean towards a BLE-based system with multi-sector application experience.
Quick Decision Guide
- Choose CenTrak: Clinical-grade multi-mode RTLS for diverse healthcare needs
- Choose Sonitor: Ultra-precise, sub-room level accuracy via ultrasound
- Choose Zebra MotionWorks: Leveraging existing Zebra hardware investments
- Choose Cisco Spaces: Utilizing current Cisco network infrastructure for RTLS
- Choose AiRISTA Flow: BLE-focused solution with broad industry application
The best CenTrak alternatives ultimately depend on your specific healthcare environment and existing infrastructure more than just feature lists.
CenTrak Setup
What are you signing up for?
This CenTrak review dives into the practicalities of deployment, helping you understand the time, resources, and potential challenges involved. It sets realistic expectations for your implementation journey.
- 🎯 Bonus Resource: While ensuring overall system readiness, understanding how to ensure compliance and banish audit fears is also key.
1. Setup Complexity & Timeline
Not a simple, instant rollout.
CenTrak implementation is complex, involving coordinated installation of hardware like monitors and Virtual Walls, plus multi-mode technology planning. What I found about deployment is that successful RTLS requires detailed coverage planning, ensuring optimal accuracy tailored to your specific facility needs.
You’ll need significant upfront planning for infrastructure placement and a dedicated project team.
2. Technical Requirements & Integration
Expect crucial IT infrastructure considerations.
Your technical team will handle integrations with existing EHR, CMMS, and Nurse Call systems, plus network support for data flows. From my implementation analysis, existing Wi-Fi infrastructure capabilities are key for communication, and dedicated networks may be needed based on complexity.
Plan for robust IT infrastructure and resources to ensure seamless data exchange and system connectivity.
3. Training & Change Management
User adoption is critical, requiring proactive effort.
Staff need comprehensive training on CenTrak Asset and Workflow software to interpret data, generate reports, and leverage full capabilities. What I found about deployment is that effective training bridges the gap between technology and workflow, preventing user resistance and maximizing system value.
Invest in strong training programs and utilize CenTrak’s resources to drive successful adoption among diverse user groups.
4. Support & Success Factors
Vendor support plays a vital role.
CenTrak offers technical support, customer success programs, and managed services, with positive user ratings for service. From my analysis, proactive engagement with support ensures long-term success, especially for complex, ongoing RTLS management needs like battery replacement.
Plan to leverage their expert guidance, resources, and regular reviews to optimize system performance and ROI.
Implementation Checklist
- Timeline: Variable, depends on facility size and RTLS scope
- Team Size: Project manager, IT, clinical leadership, field engineers
- Budget: Beyond software, includes hardware installation and integrations
- Technical: EHR/CMMS integration, network readiness, database support
- Success Factor: Comprehensive staff training and proactive change management
Overall, CenTrak setup requires meticulous planning and dedicated resources to ensure a successful, value-driven deployment.
Bottom Line
Is CenTrak the right RTLS for your healthcare organization?
My CenTrak review synthesizes a comprehensive analysis to help you determine if this specialized Real-Time Location System aligns with your operational needs and strategic goals.
1. Who This Works Best For
Healthcare organizations seeking precise, scalable RTLS.
CenTrak excels for mid-market to enterprise-level healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, that require high-accuracy tracking and robust solutions for complex operational challenges. What I found about target users is that facilities needing comprehensive, multi-use case RTLS will find the most value.
You’ll succeed if your priority is improving patient care, asset utilization, and workflow automation through real-time data.
2. Overall Strengths
Unmatched accuracy delivers true workflow automation.
The software succeeds by offering Clinical-Grade Locating™ for room, bed, or bay-level accuracy, crucial for critical healthcare operations, along with a multi-mode technology platform. From my comprehensive analysis, its integrated suite addresses a wide spectrum of complex operational challenges, from asset management to infection control.
- 🎯 Bonus Resource: While discussing operational excellence, understanding how Virtual PBX Systems streamline communication is also valuable.
These strengths translate into significant efficiency gains and cost reductions for your healthcare institution, driving operational excellence.
3. Key Limitations
Pricing transparency is a notable concern.
The primary drawback is the lack of publicly available pricing information, requiring direct engagement for cost estimation. Based on this review, potential buyers must dedicate time for sales conversations to understand the investment, which can complicate initial budget planning for your team.
I’d say these limitations are manageable, provided your organization is prepared for a direct sales process and values comprehensive solutions.
4. Final Recommendation
CenTrak earns a strong recommendation for healthcare.
You should choose this software if your organization needs a sophisticated, scalable RTLS platform capable of delivering actionable, real-time data across the entire enterprise. From my analysis, your success depends on a readiness to invest in a comprehensive system that can transform diverse operational areas.
My confidence level is high for mid-to-large healthcare organizations seeking advanced, integrated RTLS capabilities.
Bottom Line
- Verdict: Recommended for mid-to-large healthcare organizations
- Best For: Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities with complex needs
- Business Size: Mid-market to enterprise-level healthcare organizations
- Biggest Strength: Clinical-Grade Locating™ accuracy and multi-mode platform
- Main Concern: No public pricing, requiring direct sales engagement
- Next Step: Contact sales for a demo to discuss your specific requirements
This CenTrak review demonstrates strong value for the right healthcare organization, but remember to assess the pricing model’s fit for your budget.
