The Future of Medical Education: Thinkitive's VR-Integrated EHR Takes Training to New Heights

Industry

Healthcare, EHR

Technologies

Python, Angular, TypeScript, REST, SOAP, Web Services

Overview

This case study explores the innovative approach taken by a healthcare provider to enhance medical student training. Our client, a prominent healthcare organization in the US, recognized the need to revolutionize medical education by providing students with immersive training experiences using emerging technologies. They approached us to develop a new Electronic Health Record (EHR) system with VR integration, allowing medical students to practice clinical skills in a simulated environment.

Business challenges

    1. Limited Hands-On Training:

Traditional medical education methods offered limited opportunities for students to gain practical experience in clinical settings.

    2. Integration of Emerging Technologies:

Integrating VR technology with an EHR system posed technical challenges and required specialized expertise.

    3. Data Security and Compliance:

Ensuring data security and compliance with healthcare regulations while allowing students access to patient information in a simulated environment was a critical concern.

workflow diagram of aesthetic emr software

Solution

Thinkitive’s technical team coordinated with the client to develop a custom EHR system with a VR training module. After understanding and making some modifications in requirements of client here's the breakdown of the solution and its technical implementation that we have provided:

    1. VR Integration:

The VR integration involves adapting the EHR system to be compatible with VR headsets. When students activate VR mode, the EHR interface seamlessly appears within the virtual environment. This requires optimizing the EHR interface for VR display, ensuring smooth interaction and usability. Additionally, data synchronization mechanisms are implemented to ensure that patient records and interactions remain consistent across both VR and traditional interfaces, providing a seamless experience for students.

    2. AI-powered Virtual Patient:

The VR training module integrates an AI-powered virtual patient that can simulate various medical conditions, symptoms, and responses based on student actions. The AI-powered virtual patient utilizes machine learning algorithms to simulate realistic patient interactions and responses.

    3. Simulated EHR Functionalities:

Students can interact with all functionalities of the EHR within the VR environment, including:

-  Reviewing patient demographics and medical history

-  Performing virtual examinations

-  Documenting findings in progress notes

-  Creating simulated e-prescriptions and lab orders (data not sent to real systems)

    4. Data Storage and Audit Trail:

All student interactions within the VR training module, including EHR actions, are captured in a secure data storage area. Healthcare providers can access this data to audit student performance and assess their clinical decision-making skills.

Value Delivered

  • Enhanced Learning Experience:

    VR integration provides students with immersive, realistic clinical experiences, improving their diagnostic and decision-making skills.

  • Safe Training Environment:

    Dummy integrations ensure students can practice using the EHR without risking real patient data, fostering a safe learning environment.

  • Improved Student Engagement:

    Interactive VR experiences increase student engagement and retention of clinical knowledge, leading to better preparedness for real-world practice.

  • Compliance and Auditability:

    Secure data storage and audit trails ensure compliance with healthcare regulations and enable effective monitoring and evaluation of student performance.