Medical Extended Reality (MXR) Supports Patient Education

What is it about?

A growing body of evidence has shown increased use and integration of many metaverse technologies in medical education curricula and clinical skills training throughout various health care fields. Some of these innovations (e.g., virtual reality [VR]) can enhance experiences in both cognitive learning (such as information acquisition) and affective learning (such as emotional well-being, attitudes, and satisfaction). Medical metaverse technologies have been extensively used in clinical education, ranging from preclinical education to advanced clinical training sessions. For example, VR can be used in both remote and distance learning, because it offers immersive, interactive, and experiential learning environments.

Featured Image

Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Patient education refers to “the process of influencing patient behaviour and producing the changes in knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to maintain or improve health”. This process is a key element in clinical care. It helps patients gain information about and understand the nuances of their medical symptoms and conditions, as explained by their physicians and other medical providers. When patients are better informed regarding their medical condition—by learning more about basic pathology or anatomy, for example—they may adhere more closely to treatment recommendations, show greater progress through their treatment plans, and report better provider-patient relationships . In addition, educated patients seem to have improved motivation and self-management and make better-informed health decisions. Altogether, these empowering elements can result in higher clinical care satisfaction and improved overall health outcomes .

Perspectives