Robotic automation has fueled rapid changes for many different types of companies and institutions, from fast food service to industrial manufacturing. While the healthcare industry tends to adopt new technology slower than others due to an emphasis on preserving patient safety, even hospitals, doctors, and research labs are embracing automation. Not only do these innovations help maximize operating efficiency for the organization, they can also improve and support the health of patients.
Information Management
The application of artificial intelligence in a digital environment allows medical service providers to access and share crucial information with each other instantly. Complete records of results and health history can be stored, sorted, and presented on demand. This technology can also use vast quantities of data regarding specific symptoms or conditions to predict potential outcomes of various treatments for an individual. While machines don’t always make accurate predictions, they can account for a much larger number of factors and readily incorporate new data into their calculations.
Medication Preparation
Hospitals and pharmacies carry a comprehensive selection of medications so they can offer treatments to patients as needed. Traditionally, pharmacists or other professionals have to manage inventory, measure doses, and compound medicine manually. Advances in the robotic automated liquid handling process allow these institutions to transfer many of the mundane processes to machinery. This frees up more time for the pharmacist to serve customers and check essential information regarding prescriptions. Many automated processes are also less prone to error and can perform the same functions at a faster rate.
Lab Support for Research Facilities
Robotic automation is an exceptionally powerful tool for research laboratories because it allows them to achieve greater profitability, productivity and quality. A recent study of laboratory productivity found that facilities that embraced automation of mechanical and informatics tasks saw a significant reduction in error and a 10 percent decrease in employee time spent per specimen collection. Introduction of robotics in laboratory settings allows the facility to increase accuracy and quantity of output without the costs required to expand their workforce.
Personal Health Monitoring and Assistance
Monitoring and caring for patients with long-term conditions, such as those associated with the normal ageing process, requires a significant investment of personal time. While bedside care from a nurse or other professional is warranted in many situations, there are some basic lifestyle support and monitoring functions that can be automated for convenience. Intelligent monitoring devices can detect fluctuations in vital signs and other biometric readings as they occur, allowing physicians to respond quickly.
Hospitals, research facilities, and pharmacies are among the many types of healthcare institutions that have begun adopting robotic and automated solutions. These technological solutions offer a number of benefits, especially for organizations that must achieve a certain profit margin to maintain operations. The significant advantages offered by automation are shared by both service providers and patients, which makes it a popular choice for organizations all over the world.
Bio: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn't on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on twitter: @RachelleWilber
