abc.net.au/news/microsoft-hololens-virtual-reality-medicine-remote-healthcare/101583706Once known only for immersive gaming, mixed reality is now being used to connect patients in remote parts of Australia to medical specialists located hours away.Bairnsdale Regional Health Service purchased 12 units to distribute across East GippslandMicrosoft HoloLens is a mixed-reality holographic computer, worn as a headset, that allows the user to see their physical environment overlaid by various programs.
The trial included specialist consultations for nephrology, post-operative reviews and urgent GP consultations.Nephrologist and Telecare chief medical officer Christopher Sia has seen Dargo resident Lorraine Paul multiple times using HoloLens to consult her on her kidney problems."It makes me feel like I'm in the room with the patient and the nurse acts as my eyes and my ears," Dr Sia said.
"With the HoloLens, it's a lot easier, because you pick out a special day and you don't have to go anywhere," she said. "To have someone who's specialised, experienced at the other end, seeing what I'm seeing, that makes a huge difference for my treatment and care."Bairnsdale Regional Health Service has purchased 12 HoloLens units to distribute across bush nursing centres at Dargo, Cann River, Gelantipy, Swifts Creek, Buchan and Ensay, as well as some hospitals and aged care facilities.
"It's important that we pick up disease early rather than delaying care and allowing these presentations to become more severe and having to deal with more severe complicated illness down the track," he said.Bairnsdale Regional Health Service chief executive Robyn Hales said HoloLens was economical, costing about $5,500 per unit.
And people wonder why healthcare is so overpriced.