Embracing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in the healthcare industry has vast benefits such as pain relief, therapies, and robotic and virtual surgeries. These interactive tools …

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are immersive technologies that significantly increase customer engagement and help with memory retention and recall while providing a great experience.

These two technologies are becoming increasingly available and accessible. VR is a sensory experience that engages all senses: sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. It is an immersive and interactive experience reached by viewing a simulated 3D environment. VR allows the user to escape to an alternate reality by creating realistic images and sounds or creating imaginary content.

By contrast, AR allows users to add digital elements into their real-world environment that are augmented by computer-generated sensory input. Thanks to AR technology, the user can interact with and digitally manipulate these entities. How important are VR and AR in medicine and healthcare?

Role of virtual and augmented reality in the healthcare industry

With the expanding use of connected devices, combined with computer vision and artificial intelligence, more and more healthcare companies are implementing VR and AR technologies in their systems to strengthen their digital solutions. It’s a new way to establish connections with their patients, provide remote and personalized care, improve medical training, or prepare for surgery activities.

There are multiple applications for VR and AR in the healthcare sector. It can be effective for patient education as well as healthcare workers. Here are some examples of how VR and AR are used in healthcare and medicine:

Medical training

Thanks to VR, medical students, doctors, or surgeons can obtain more vital knowledge by learning about new therapies and drugs, treating their patients better, or performing complicated surgeries without the risk of making mistakes. For example, VR and AR technologies can provide digital models to visualize a specific organ and walk through the details of the surgery before operating. Additionally, simulations can be used for illustrative or educational purposes or to explain better to the patient their condition, the process of their operation, and the outcomes.

Behavioral and psychological treatment

Behavioral and psychological health problems are now being addressed through VR and AR technologies. For example, patients who suffer from trauma can use VR for meditation or relaxation in safe, engaging, and motivational environments to overcome their crisis and help them better understand their condition. It is also applicable to treat anxiety, phobia, depression, or other neurological problems such as Parkinson’s disease and autism.

Robotics and surgery

Steady hands are required during surgery. Thanks to advances in computer technology, robotic devices are adopted to provide the perfect surgery with high precision, controlled or assisted by a human surgeon. As a result, there are fewer risks of complications during the surgery, and it can also offer the patient a short recovery.

Pixels Health at the service of technology

Virtual and augmented reality are unique ways that allow people to communicate and interact through sensory devices. At Pixels Health we develop highly customized virtual and augmented reality solutions that align with our client’s objectives. We create immersive end-user experiences that educate and create memorable events that resonate with target audiences. We also help pharmaceutical industries promote their medical devices and products through simulations, such as 3D websites.