Quite a few healthcare companies are actively experimenting with new and innovative technologies. It is evident that Virtual Reality technology can play a big role in the future of healthcare. In fact, quite a few institutions have made significant progress in adapting virtual reality technology to the needs of the medical sector.
6. MindMaze
When the MindMaze project was first introduced, a lot of people questioned its validity. The goal of this project is to utilize virtual technology so it can help patients recover from brain injuries. Considering how the VR experience is rather brain-intensive, it may sound counterproductive to use this technology in the first place. However, MindMaze has been successful in creating devices using VR to retrain the brain for victims suffering from a stroke.
5. GestureTek Health
This particular Canadian company has created quite the track record when it comes to embracing innovative technologies. Back in 1986, they were among the first to invest in video gesture control technology. Fast forward to today, and the company has a line of VR exercise programs that allow patients to improve both physical and cognitive capabilities. This VR-based line of products has been appreciated especially by children, who often struggle with the concept of rehabilitation.
4. Surgical Theater
When hearing this US company’s name for the first time, one might mistake it for a movie theater. However, Surgical Theater has been among the first healthcare organizations to embrace virtual reality technology. In fact, they created a VR medical visualization platform to provide an immersive environment, allowing for better surgical planning. The platform can also be used to fully inform patients about the procedure they will undergo in the future.
3. VirtaMed
Medical training is of the utmost importance in the healthcare industry. virtual reality technology can play a big role in this regard. Swiss-based VirtaMed has been developing surgical simulators to enhance medical training. In fact, their VR environment has become part of the Swiss orthopedic exam, as every to-be doctor needs to pass the simulator before graduating. This is a significant validation of virtual reality technology as a whole, that much is certain.
2. ImmersiveTouch
While surgeons are well-versed in performing precise operations, there is always room for future improvements. ImmersiveTouch provides a VR imaging platform to surgeons who are looking to practice their profession in between surgeries. Surgeons can also upload MRI and CT scans to the platform’s cloud service and have them reconstructed in virtual reality. It is quite an interesting concept that will hopefully continue to gain more traction in the healthcare sector.
1. Bravemind
One of the most often underestimated types of medical conditions are post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSDs). This condition mostly affects soldiers and other military personnel. Interestingly enough, virtual reality is making a positive impact in this regard, thanks to the Bravemind initiative. This company uses a VR Exposure Therapy solution, which immerses patients in VR representative of their traumatic experiences. This allows patients to gradually come to terms with the horrors they endured, eventually relieving PTSD.