Abstract: A method (200, 300) and apparatus (100) provides for displaying locally the position and identity of various field operatives or agents who have radio receiver transmitters (20, 30 and 40). A local control station (10) transmits a request for identification to radios (20, 30 and 40). Each radio responds back with a message (226) giving its location. The local control station then displays the identity and location of the unit on an area map (234) and stores the information in memory (236). Control station 10 further designates some or all of the radios (20, 30 and 40) with a laser designator signal (60). The radio then responds with an IFF signal (318) if it is a friendly agent.

Abstract: A home health and communications support system and method which includes at least one health support unit for monitoring and supporting a patient, at least one monitoring terminal, and a network server coupled between the at least one health support unit and the at least one monitoring terminal for exchanging information between the at least one health support unit and the at least one monitoring terminal. The health support unit comprises a medication controller, communications module for interacting with the patient, central data processor, and external communications interface. The central data processor stores and manipulates patient data generated by the medication controller and by the communications module for patient interaction. The external communications interface allows access to patient data and accepts external data from an external source.