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robodoc
A robot with a computer-screen head, video-camera eyes, and a speaker for a mouth functioning as a robotic medical surrogate.

Dr. Robot’s LCD screen displays the face of the medical provider-specialist controlling the robot.

The robots can be operated from anywhere, provided the user has access to a control station with a computer, internet access, and "mobile robotic" control software from the robot's manufacturer (InTouch Health).

Most of the patients who have had contact with the four-foot tall "doctor" have reported that they think "interacting with robotic caregivers is far more amusing and interesting than chatting with standard-issue, flesh-and-blood medical personnel."

Some people have even stated that "the robodoc was more enjoyable than a standard bedside visit".

Medical facilities in small towns or rural areas who may lack the resources to maintain a full staff of medical specialists could use the robots to provide remote consultations with experts who could work with patients, medical staff, and family members; whenever and wherever needed.

Robots also could stand in for humans when it's not practical or possible to physically send in physicians; such as, in military operations, natural or bioterrorist disasters, at sea, or in other remote locations.

Health-care workers need not fear that they will be replaced by “"bots", no matter how amused patients might be by the prospect.

Medical specialists believe that robo-doctors and robo-nurses can supplement care, but cannot replace their human counterparts; at least, not yet!

This entry is located in the following unit: Robots, Robotic Topics, and Robot References + (page 2)