AV is making its’ mark in healthcare and gradually transforming the way we receive care and treatment. There are several trends emerging in today’s landscape that will enhance the experience for both patients and healthcare providers.
Artificial Intelligence
No longer a far-fetched concept only seen in the movies, AI is now employed in a multitude of industries including health care. Delivering high quality care has become easier for physicians with AI-assisted robotic surgery robots that can use data garnered from pre-op medical records to guide a surgeon’s instrument during surgery. Virtual nursing assistants can provide home care information, direct patients to places with appropriate care, and even provide wellness checks. And, wearable AI devices can track and analyze data such as heart rates and blood pressure feeding vital information to providers. New research is studying the efficacy of using AI to detect certain cancers and other ailments with very good results.
Telemedicine
Strokes are the third leading cause of death in the United States and getting treatment within three hours of a stroke results in a significantly lower risk of brain damage and death. Telestroke provides remote access to a neurologist and attending nurse to diagnose and prescribe treatment quickly thereby saving lives in remote or rural areas. This type of telemedicine as well as the more traditional telemedicine where a doctor can be accessed via computer or phone for minor ailments such as ear infections, save time for doctors and patients who can remain in the comfort of their homes while providing or receiving treatment. Telemedicine is also employed in hospitals and nursing homes to provide access to providers that may not be possible otherwise due to time constraints or distance.
Virtual Reality
VR is being employed for education and training by simulating real world events and allowing users to react in these situations without consequences. Students are using VR in higher education to dissect the human body and learn anatomy through 3D models viewed through goggles. Companies like Floreo, a startup, have developed VR therapy for autistic children to develop their social interactions. There are numerous applications such as pain relief and patient calming for which VR is being investigated as a viable solution.
As technology advances, innovative uses of AV in healthcare will continue to improve the patient experience. Healthcare professional will have access to better training tools and patients will interact with providers in new ways with better outcomes as a result.
