Augmented reality and virtual reality are innovative technologies that can bring enormous benefits to the healthcare sector, bringing a deeper understanding of complex medical concepts to healthcare professionals and patients. The integration of data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, telemedicine and interoperability has already begun to change the way healthcare is delivered; away from care focused on disease management and towards more holistic, personalized and patient-centered care. But where should healthcare organizations start when looking to adopt these new technologies? Here are three areas where healthcare professionals can leverage extended reality technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to find increased utility early on.
Medical Training
Medical education is one area where AR and VR applications can immediately provide increased utility. AR and VR applications can be used to provide a three-dimensional understanding of complex medical concepts, allowing healthcare professionals to improve a wide variety of skills. At some healthcare facilities like Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford and Kaiser PermanenteVR has already emerged as a transformative tool for sharpening employee skills.
For example, AR and VR technologies offer clinicians the ability to interact with and understand complex medical devices; providing them with invaluable hands-on experience. These immersive experiences not only enhance the skills of clinicians, but also ensure that patients benefit from the latest advances in medical technology.
Another use case for immersive VR experiences is empathy training for nurses. Training via this method allows nurses to gain first-hand insight into the challenges and perspectives associated with various medical conditions. So far, it has proven to be more effective than traditional methods, fostering a deeper understanding of the nuances related to specific health conditions and improving inclusiveness in healthcare interactions.
Personalized patient care
For decades, traditional healthcare models have focused on disease management. But today the dynamic is changing, putting patients at the center of the action. Modernized approaches to health care emphasize the importance of personalized, patient-centered care; a more individualized healthcare experience that is not a one-size-fits-all approach. By leveraging technologies such as augmented reality and virtual reality to understand and respond to patients’ unique needs, preferences, histories and conditions, healthcare professionals can provide more personalized and holistic care.
Through a more personalized approach to care, clinicians can also foster a sense of empowerment and engagement in patients, contributing to better adherence to treatment plans and better overall health outcomes. Access to integrated health data, telemedicine for remote consultations, and user-friendly interfaces improve patients’ ability to understand and manage their health more easily, leading to better communication, shared decision-making, and improvement health knowledge.
Immersive care solutions
In physical therapy, extended reality technologies like virtual reality are reshaping diagnosis and treatment planning. Thanks to immersive simulations, healthcare professionals have a powerful tool for precise assessments, real-time monitoring and the creation of tailor-made rehabilitation plans. This transformative approach enhances the capabilities of clinicians, ensuring more personalized and effective interventions for patients.
However, recognizing that advanced technologies can play a central role in healthcare requires a reassessment of trust dynamics, taking into account both patients and healthcare professionals. Transparently addressing patient concerns, investing in training programs and putting in place support mechanisms for healthcare professionals ensures that any technology used will be seen as a collaborative tool aimed at increasing capacity, not as a replacement of critical roles in clinical decision-making and treatment planning. Adopting this approach advances healthcare practices and strengthens the collaborative nature of partnerships between people and technology.
Navigation The digital landscape represents an exciting step in improving the efficiency of healthcare delivery. However, it is important not to neglect the need to establish a digital culture among both healthcare professionals and patients. There are several steps to keep in mind before leveraging AR and VR. For successful technology implementation, continuing education programs are essential to ensure healthcare professionals use digital tools effectively, including electronic health records And telemedecine. On the other hand, patient education initiatives will help individuals navigate digital tools effectively, contributing to a more informed and engaged patient population. Initiatives focused on cybersecurity awareness will also be crucial to maintaining trust in the digital healthcare ecosystem, highlighting the importance of protecting sensitive health information.
About Jessica Rengstorf, Director of U.S. Health Strategy at Endava
Jessica Rengstorf Director of US Health Strategy at Endava has over 15 years of experience in the healthcare sector. With a background in health insurance, public health, employer benefits, and digital health point solutions, she understands the complex challenges of the healthcare ecosystem. She holds a Master of Public Health degree in public health administration and policy from the University of Minnesota and focuses on health care strategy at Endava.
