The medical field is still determining whether innovations such as Google Glass, a pair of glasses that doubles as a camera and computer, will live up to the hype. A New York Times post, “Google Glass Enters the Operating Room,” discusses the possible impacts of this new innovation. Various medical professionals have different opinions about these medical advances as there are both benefits and risks to using this technology in healthcare settings.

Technological advances in medicine often include some element of risk, and Google Glass is no exception. Some possible risks include:

  • Technology Glitches: Creators must work out the bugs in the system before the innovation can be utilized effectively be medical professionals. Hardware and software issues have both affected Google Glass and those issues must be resolved before physicians can rely on them in everyday use. Physicians have had issues with the camera pointing in the wrong direction and with the camera’s battery life. Technological advances must be thoroughly tested before they are put into effect.
  • Privacy Issues: Maintaining patient privacy is a huge concern in medicine, and healthcare professionals are often worried that technology will undermine a patient’s right to privacy under the federal regulation, HIPAA. Physicians express concern over the Google Glass uploading data from surgeries onto the Internet and allowing for unauthorized viewings. Physicians must tell their patients that they will be using Google Glass to film and obtain express permission as to uphold their right to privacy.
  • Multitasking and Distractions: Some healthcare professionals are concerned that physicians will use this technological development to surf the Internet rather than giving the patient their full attention. Also, some studies have shown that if a physician is concentrating too much on their technology they will neglect to notice what is happening right in front of them.  Novel inventions are often distracting and those who choose to use them must do so responsibly in order for them to be effective.

Though there can be risks with new technology, many feel that the benefits of these advances are greater. Some possible benefits include:

  • Saving Lives: Often these new technological advances improve the quality of medical care physicians provide, and can even make the difference in a life threatening situation. With Google Glass, for example, physicians are able to see a live stream from the paramedics’ viewpoint and give lifesaving instructions. Rather than waiting for a patient to arrive at the hospital, they can diagnose the situation immediately.
  • Teaching Others: New technology can often be utilized as a teaching tool and improve the quality of care that physicians can provide. Physicians in the United States have the ability to stream live feeds of surgical operations to physicians in other countries who may not have the same knowledge or expertise available.  Google Glass would also help medical students view an operation from the surgeon’s point of view.
  • Effective Medical Care: Medical advances can often lead to a greater quality of care by providing new tools and capabilities that other current technologies cannot. Google Glass for instance allows surgeons to consult with colleagues over video chat as they operate. It is also beneficial that physicians are able to view a patient’s medical information without having to look away from the patient.

Technology is rapidly advancing and constantly changing the fields of healthcare and medicine. Modern medical advances can greatly benefit the way we practice medicine, but should be used cautiously until they are thoroughly tested. Google Glass is an example of a healthcare innovation that could greatly improve medical care, so long as it is used carefully and in a manner that minimizes risks.

What do you think of Google Glass being used in healthcare and medical settings?

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