MEDi™ - Tanya Beran

Imagine children waiting calmly in a clinic to see a doctor. A humanoid robot is engaging them in play, monitoring their vital signs, and educating them about health. Also envision children learning how to control their breathing and turn their attention away from a needle. In fact, we have empirical evidence that MEDi™ relieves children’s pain and anxiety during medical procedures (Beran et al., 2013). Children can now leave the clinic with a sense of mastery – even remembering their visit as enjoyable. Affectionately named MEDi™, it can be adapted for use in most clinics for a variety of medical procedures. We have developed apps, called MEDiKits, consisting of interactive robotic behaviors that MEDi™ performs to coach children through painful medical procedures, educate children about health, and entertain families while waiting for appointments. The application of humanoid robots in pediatric health is a cutting edge, interdisciplinary approach that will revolutionize healthcare.