The intersection of the robotics and healthcare market began in the 1980s when the first medical robots provided surgical assistance via robotic arm technologies. Since then, medical robots have come a long way in supporting various medical procedures and tasks. An article published by Advent Health University, Florida, USA, stated that the global medical robots market is projected to reach $12.7 billion by 2025! In addition, a study titled ‘Robots in Healthcare: a Scoping Review’ which was carried out by six professors in London, UK, found that the evidence base for the use of robots in healthcare is expanding, and robots are being used across a range of specialties and settings. Moreover, ten overall roles for robots were identified, with the best explored being surgical and rehabilitation roles.

These statistics and studies indicate that the rise in the application of robotics in the healthcare space is on the upward curve. Medical robotics has grown in popularity in recent years and robots are changing the way surgeries are performed in the medical field. During the COVID-19 pandemic as well, hospitals and clinics began using robots for a wide range of tasks. Thus, as we stand on the doorstep of a future in which robots are an integral part of medicine, we need to familiarize our children with the concept of medical robotics through programs that offer learning in robotics for kids. 

Types of Medical Robots

In today’s time, healthcare facilities have access to a range of specially designed medical robots that are designed to serve unique purposes. Hospitals and healthcare organizations are integrating medical robots into their workflows, and tech companies are accelerating the adoption of robotics in the healthcare industry. Following are a few types of medical robots:

1. Surgical Assistance Robots
   1. • Purpose: To enhance the existing surgical treatment procedures
      • Tasks Performed:
   1. Sharing video feeds for consultations
   2. Allows surgeons to perform complex procedures using more advanced instrumentation and visuals over traditional laparoscopic surgeries
   3. To avoid larger incisions and longer recovery times 
2. Service Robots
   • Purpose: Reducing healthcare professionals’ workload by completing routine logistical tasks
   • Tasks Performed:
   1. Prepare patient rooms
   2. Restock medical supply cabinets
   3. Track supplies
3. Social Robots
   • Purpose: Interacting with patients and visitors
   • Tasks Performed:
   1. Support patient morale
   2. Guide visitors and patients within the healthcare premise
   3. Encourage patients to follow treatment regimens
4. Modular Robots
   • Purpose: Support patient rehabilitation efforts 
   • Tasks Performed:
   1. Monitor the patient as they perform exercises
   2. Measure degrees of motion
   3. Track progress of patients

Benefits & Role of Robotics in the Healthcare Space

Although many people are uncomfortable with the idea of trusting their lives with a robo-medical professional, it is increasingly becoming commonplace in the world of healthcare. The progress in robotics has had an extensive impact across diverse medical fields. It has increasingly automated numerous procedures and provided undeniable advantages simultaneously. It is advantageous to both healthcare providers and patients. Let’s explore some amazing benefits:

1. Surgical Precision

   In robot-assisted surgery, medical procedures can be performed with unparalleled accuracy and precision. This precision, which humans can impossibly achieve, allows surgeons to target specific areas, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of complications, and also avoiding large incisions thereby leading to a quick recovery.

2. Consistency and Quality

   Unlike human practitioners, robots do not experience fatigue or tiredness. In carrying out tasks that demand repetitive actions and or sharp concentration, robots can perform with unmatched consistency. This can result in patients having increased confidence and reliability in them. 

   

3. Enhanced Data Analysis

   In healthcare, the introduction of robotics has ushered a significant boon through the enhanced data-analysis abilities it brings along. Robots can collect and analyze vast amounts of data with unprecedented speed and accuracy. This helps in gaining valuable insights, identifying patterns, and making more informed decisions regarding patient care and treatment strategies.

4. Work-Environment Safety

   By utilizing robots for tasks such as lifting patients, dispensing and stocking medications, moving hospital beds, etc., the risk of injury to both the healthcare professional and the patient is reduced notably. Robots, equipped with advanced sensors and algorithms, navigate through any complex environment with safety. 

   

5. Automation of Monotonous & Time-Consuming Tasks

The introduction of robotics in healthcare has relieved many healthcare professionals from mundane duties, allowing them to focus on more critical aspects of patient care. These specially designed robots excel in repetitive actions, analysis, and logistical movements, ultimately streamlining procedures and reducing the risk of human errors.

The Da Vinci Surgical System, Xenex robots, Exoskeleton robot, TUG, PharmAssist, etc., are examples of a few specially designed robots that have helped cataylze procedures and bring about advancement in the healthcare industry. 

The field of robotics is expanding its scope and integrating itself with various market sectors, easing the job of humans and boosting efficiency and productivity rates. This also indicates the rise in demand for professionals who can design, operate, and look after the smooth functioning of these robots. Educating children about it through robotics classes for kids is a way to empower these young minds for a tech-powered future. 

OBotz, a leading robotics and coding program, offers the 7-Level Program which is aimed at teaching robotics for kids through a structured and progressive learning method. Strengthening basics in robotics from a young age will help children seamlessly navigate their path in the future. Get in touch and book a free trial class now!