Hundreds of U.S. hospitals have deployed mobile robots to help health care providers conduct medical assessments and offer advice when they cannot be physically present with patients, the New York Times reports.
Although skeptics say the so-called telepresence robots do not offer a dramatic improvement over current videoconferencing technology, supporters say the mobile devices help remote physicians better exert control over a work space.
Some of the robots have artificial intelligence technology that allows them to perform certain actions on their own. Eventually, the robots could become more advanced and better able to augment human interaction, according to the Times.
Applications for Eldercare
Executives at robot manufacturer Vgo say their robots eventually could be used by family members to visit and assist elderly parents who would like to remain independent.
Workers at assisted-living centers also could use the robots to check on residents and ensure they are taking medications at the correct time of day.
In addition, elderly individuals could use the robots to virtually visit various locations and stay in better contact with family and friends (Markoff, New York Times, 9/5).
