Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality are the latest technologies to emerge in the healthcare industry, and utilizing both could maximize existing medical treatment. Challenges that face the healthcare industry consist of constant demand from medical institutions and the lack of personnel to manage the exceeding workflow. Implementing AR/VR could optimize the healthcare field with access to different forms of therapy and treatment.



Augmented reality uses cameras, sensors, and displays to pass on digital information to the real world. AR enhances the user’s visibility of the real world by superimposing the information and 3D elements. In virtual reality, the user’s experience a complete shift in their view via different scenes like a video game or rollercoaster ride film.



Medical providers already see the benefits of this technology, including diagnosing, treating, as well as advancing cure diagnosis of illnesses. With surging popularity and increasing demand for AR/VR in healthcare, experts predict this enterprise to reach $5.1 billion by the year 2025.



Healthcare professionals are already using AR/VR in various ways, including:



Surgical Training:

Something as intricate as surgery requires not only practice but also precision. Instead of observing surgeon conduct procedures, there is a more interactive tool that offers excellent training available for medical students that involve the use of VR. This form of training provides students guided lessons step by step with endless scenarios for proper preparation for any circumstances possible.



Psychological Treatment:

AR/VR provides treatment for mental disorders, from stress-related disorders to eating disorders, and chronic pain. VR has been used for Veteran’s diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The simulation puts patients in situations that trigger flashbacks. This exercise helps patients to learn how to manage stress triggering situations properly.



Diagnostic Advancements:

Efficient detecting, preventing, and treating diseases is one of the ways AR can advance diagnostic assessments. The visual information from sensors into one interface demonstrates the potential causes of a patient’s state through analysis. This assessment gives the doctor the ability to look through the patient’s veins, organs, lesions, and other points without intrusion.



Virtual Cancer:

Through the use of VR Cancer Research UK Institute doctors can innovatively study cancer. A cancerous tumor sample is taken from the patient and allows doctors to observe the structure of cancer cells in detail from all angles. The purpose of the VR 3D model is to help cancer researchers better understand cancer and discover new treatments.



Rehabilitation for Brain Injuries:

Recovery from brain injuries is a challenge patients face with zero pharmacological therapy available. VR is a cost-effective tool that allows therapeutic engagement both at the patient’s bedside and during daily life at chronic stages after injury. Rehabilitation is now possible with VR that helps patients recover to regain a higher level of cognitive function. Utilizing VR therapy can help doctors detect areas where patients are still experiencing difficulties, such as memory loss or the inability to make decisions.



Both technologies are producing positive results for the physical and mental well being of patients. Incorporating the use of AR and VR helps scientific professionals further their understanding and treatment of numerous health conditions and diseases.



The rise of technology in the healthcare industry is rapidly growing with apps to find accessible healthcare and introducing the future of telehealth into the medical industry.

What are your thoughts on the latest technology emerging into healthcare? Do you think it could be beneficial to patients? Let us know in the comments!

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