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Virtual Reality in Healthcare
Dr Elizabeth Johnston-young
When we think of a headset being worn, the first thought is usually gaming and fun. These unusual looking head mounted state of the art googles bring the person wearing them into their own world. Yes these headsets are widely sold and worn worldwide and enjoyed for playing many games. However now they are brought into a vital work places including The NHS and helping put patients at ease. There most definitely is a place for virtual reality in healthcare.
NHS trusts are having a growing number of virtual reality (VR) head sets in their departments and wards. Funded by the Trusts, studies and some are from donations from the general public and charities. They use the head sets for a variety of tasks.
So what is Virtual reality?
Virtual Reality helps simulate real world situations. The user is wearing the headset. Through this they experience a 360 degree surround display. Where they enjoy a full digital environment through the googles or surrounding display. VR is used throughout healthcare for both physical and mental health conditions. For both patients and staff. Treatment, diagnosis, wellbeing, patient education and staff training all benefit from VR.
