Extended Reality and its Role in Healthcare
Introduction
Definition of Extended Reality (XR)
Virtual Reality & Its Usage in Healthcare
Augmented Reality & its Usage in Healthcare
Conclusion
Introduction
While many think the primary use of extended reality is for entertainment and gaming, XR is gaining popularity in other industries, such as education, construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. The consumer uses of XR are expanding at a rapid rate, and for healthcare, XR is proving to be more than just a gimmick. In recent times, technological advancements in healthcare have given hope to millions of patients and doctors, and many healthcare providers have started to adopt VR. In fact, statistics predict that the AR/VR market in healthcare will reach 7.05 billion by 2026. This article will highlight some use cases of XR in healthcare and how it improves patient care.
Definition of Extended Reality (XR)
Extended reality, or XR, is a term used to describe a technology that mixes the real world with computer-generated content of various kinds. It covers a large spectrum of different technologies that allow users to experience computer-generated content in the real world.
XR is an umbrella term for Virtual reality (VR), Augmented reality (AR), & Mixed Reality (MR).
Virtual Reality & Its Usage in Healthcare
VR is an XR tech that replaces the real world with a simulated one, immersing the user in a computer-generated environment. The immersive platform allows people to experience things that would be dangerous or even impossible in real life.
For example, a medical student learning to perform surgeries in a VR environment is a far safer alternative than practicing in real life, where patients' lives could be at risk. Medical practitioners looking to improve their skills can take advantage of the VR environment and immersive 3D visuals to master their skills. Further, VR allows healthcare professionals to connect with specialist doctors from remote locations and organize immersive healthcare conferences.
Augmented Reality & its Usage in Healthcare
AR creates a simulated world that is superimposed on the real world. Unlike VR, which replaces the real world with a simulated one, AR augments the real world with computer-generated imagery.
Augmented reality can help doctors better diagnose a condition without errors. AR helps doctors and patients to understand the actual symptoms and treat them accordingly.
Further, AR can help medical professionals easily detect veins. Using AR applications and mobile devices, doctors and nurses can scan a patient's body and accurately visualize where the veins are in their body.
Conclusion
Extended reality technologies like VR and AR revolutionize the healthcare experience for doctors and patients.
However, while it's true that these technologies are fascinating, it's important to remember that they are in their infancy. Developers still need to overcome plenty of challenges and limitations for mass adoption to become possible.
Nonetheless, there is no doubt that extended reality will play an essential role in healthcare in the years to come. The potential of XR in healthcare is endless, and we are excited to see what the future holds.
