A hospital in the US had introduced a lifesize hologram device to replace in-person visits and reduce patient wait times.
Patients at a Texas hospital who expect to see doctors in person now encounter doctors via 3D holograms.
The Holobox is a two-metre-plus device that projects a hologram of a doctor to conduct real-time consultations.
It was designed by Netherlands-based next-gen hologram company Holoconnects.
It is set to revolutionise patient care while reducing wait times and accommodating non-hands-on visits, such as consults or pre- and post-operative appointments.
Crescent Regional Hospital’s CEO Raji Kumar reports it is ‘much more engaging, interactive, and realistic than a Zoom or telehealth call’.
Collaborating with Holoconnects, the hospital sees itself as pioneering the future of healthcare with this innovation.
‘Now, you’re seeing the person as a whole. I’m able to see you as a whole. I can see you walk and talk; I can make you do certain tests, which I cannot do with a smaller screen,’ Kumar said.
Kumar reported that about 10 doctors have tested the device with around 15 patients, and despite its early stages, it has received positive feedback.
Plans are underway to create mini holograms or mobile studios for other clinics or rural areas with the most significant shortage of hospitals and physicians.
The Dutch company recently showcased its AI-powered holograms, demonstrating their potential for various industries, including hotels, retail and healthcare.
Holoconnects co-founder and CEO André Smith said: ‘We're going to connect doctors to patients. Imagine a doctor being able to appear as a live hologram in a rural area, providing much-needed medical care.
‘We thrive on pushing the boundaries of innovation, transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary. We believe our technology will profoundly impact all industry sectors and contribute to a more sustainable, fossil-free world, as speakers can be live beamed to any Holobox location, reducing CO2 emissions caused by air travel. CES provides an excellent platform for us to connect with the world's leading innovators and showcase the limitless possibilities of holograms.’
