The healthcare industry is one of the largest adopters of VR, which includes surgery simulation, phobia treatments and robotic surgery training. This technology allows healthcare professionals to learn new skills and refresh existing ones while not posing any danger to patients. Common VR healthcare scenes include operating theatres, physiotherapy rooms and outdoor settings for mental well-being sessions.
The world’s first VR hospital – Latus Health, a digital occupational health provider based in the U.K., is developing a virtual clinic it hopes will treat 1 million patients daily. The inspiration comes from the development of the Metaverse by companies like Meta and Microsoft. Latus Health will launch a mental health clinic in virtual reality as the first component of its VR hospital. The program will store patient medical records using blockchain technology, which transfers digital ownership to patients and reduces the risk of data theft.
Earlier this year, the company launched Yodha, a platform through which users can receive care, testing and screening remotely. While it’s operational only in the U.K., the company hopes to expand to the U.S. in the coming two years. Latus argues this approach will eliminate waits at clinic receptions, improve healthcare access and fill the void that patients may feel from being in an environment separate from their provider while using traditional remote services.
VR healthcare company MyndVR has recently partnered with HTC VIVE to introduce a new service called MyndConnect. The platform will allow seniors to connect with family members and friends in the Metaverse, using VR to eliminate the need to travel. MyndConnect is a platform designed specifically for senior living settings that use HTC VIVE’s new, ultra-lightweight VIVE Flow goggles. The solution addresses the rising awareness around senior care and the impacts of isolation felt during the pandemic.
A 2021 Facts and Factors market research report estimate that Virtual Reality in healthcare will reach a value of approximately USD 40.98 billion by 2026, up from only $2.70 billion in 2020.
