AMRs are increasingly gaining attention due to their superior ability to support humans in the digital era, representing the most modern and straightforward automation technology available today. So, what are the advantages of Autonomous Mobile Robots in healthcare? Join Phenikaa-X as we explore the details in this article.
1. Brief introduction about Autonomous Mobile Robots in Healthcare
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) are autonomous robots equipped with advanced sensor systems and 3D mapping technology, enabling them to perform assigned tasks without human control. One of the most significant strengths of AMRs is their ease of deployment without requiring facility restructuring, making this technology a breakthrough in automation solutions across various industries, from manufacturing to services.
Most AMRs in the market are designed for manufacturing and warehousing. Recently, some AMRs are equipped with more advanced artificial intelligence technology, making them an ideal choice for fields requiring human interaction, particularly in healthcare. The Robot can operate in dynamic environments like hospitals, navigating hallways, avoiding obstacles, and integrating with hospital systems. This helps alleviate the workload of healthcare staff, assisting patients with simple tasks such as delivering medications, drinks, answering questions, etc.
This technology is still new, but globally, several pioneering organizations have applied AMRs in the operations of healthcare facilities, specifically including:
- TUG robots: Designed for automated delivery of supplies and medications.
- UVD-Robots: Specialized in UV-C disinfection to reduce infections.
- APOTECAchemo: Automates chemotherapy drug preparation for precision and safety.
- Phenikaa-X Service bot: Phenikaa-X Service bots are a type of delivery bot with AI to support patients in hospitals.
2. Applications of Autonomous Mobile Robots in Healthcare
AMRs are transforming healthcare through a variety of applications, each addressing specific needs in hospitals and clinics.
2.1. Delivery
One of the core functions of AMRs in healthcare support is the transportation of goods. AMRs are equipped with trays and containers, enabling them to transport essential items such as packaged food, bottled water, medications and other necessary medical supplies.
This is a fundamental yet highly important and effective feature. Hospitals are often busy environments, with thousands of patients visiting daily for treatment. This creates significant pressure on staffing resources. With AMRs, nurses and support staff no longer need to spend time on simple tasks like assisting patients in the reception area. Instead, AMRs handle these tasks, allowing doctors and nurses to focus on patient care and treatment.
2.2. Disinfection and Sterilization
Some AMR models designed specifically for hospitals are equipped with additional disinfection technologies, such as refrigerated compartments and UV lights. With these customizations, AMRs can be used for more specialized tasks, such as assisting doctors and nurses in treatment rooms, clinics, or surgical areas that require high levels of sterilization, ensuring patient safety.
The effectiveness of this technology was partially validated during the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, AMRs supported healthcare workers at infection hotspots, minimizing the risk of disease transmission.
2.3. Patient Assistance and Telepresence
In addition to assisting with patient interactions, AMRs can also serve as communication tools, allowing doctors and nurses to connect with patients through the robot’s screen. AMRs also assist with patient monitoring, delivering real-time data to healthcare providers, improving access to care in remote or high-risk areas.
2.4. Nursing Support
Modern AMR models are equipped with recent advancements in artificial intelligence technology, enabling them to autonomously interact and respond to requests from patients. Users can engage with AMRs through intuitive touchscreens and voice recognition technology to receive assistance. With these features, robots can help patients address basic inquiries about hospital facilities, provide fundamental medical knowledge, and respond to requests for help.
3. Benefits of Autonomous Mobile Robots in Healthcare
The adoption of AMRs in healthcare offers numerous advantages, transforming how hospitals operate. Overall, AMR in Healthcare’s benefits include:
| Benefit | Description |
| Efficiency | Automates repetitive tasks, reducing staff workload and improving workflow. |
| Safety | Minimizes human contact in high-risk areas, reducing infection risks. |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Saves long-term costs by optimizing logistics and reducing manual labor. |
| Improved Patient Care | Enhances care quality through faster deliveries and better infection control. |
| Enhanced Patient Satisfaction | AI-equipped robots assist patients with simple queries, such as hospital navigation (e.g., locating restrooms or reception) and explaining basic medical procedures. |
4. Some examples of Autonomous Mobile Robots in Healthcare
Even though the technology is still new, there are already some business implant AMR into medical services, being the head-liner Real-world applications demonstrate the transformative impact of AMRs in healthcare.
Phenikaa-X’s Service bot at PhenikaaMec hospital
PhenikaaMec Hospital in Vietnam is one of the first hospitals in the country to implement AMR technology in practice. The service robots developed by Phenikaa X are equipped with storage cabinets and advanced AI, enabling them to control smart doors and elevator systems. This allows the robots to move flexibly within the hospital, supporting doctors and nurses with transportation tasks and simple consultations.
TUG Robots at UCSF Medical Center
In 2015, the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Medical Center deployed over 25 TUG robots to automate logistics tasks. These robots primarily handle the delivery of medications, linens, and meals across multiple hospital floors. According to Aethon, the deployment reduced nurse delivery time by 20%, allowing staff to dedicate more time to patient care and improving overall operational efficiency.
UVD-Robots at Odense University Hospital
Since 2020, Odense University Hospital in Denmark has utilized 10 UVD-Robots for UV-C disinfection of patient rooms and operating theaters. These robots were introduced to combat hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. A study reported a 60% reduction in surface contamination after implementing UVD-Robots, significantly enhancing patient safety.
Conclusion
The above article has provided a basic overview of the benefits and applications of Autonomous Mobile Robots in Healthcare. Overall, this is a new automation solution being implemented at a fundamental level with functions such as transportation and consultation support, aimed at reducing the workload of healthcare staff. Phenikaa-X hopes that in the future, new technologies will be introduced and further improved, enhancing the presence of automation technology in healthcare.
Phenikaa-X is the Vietnamese Headliner on the AMR and robotic solutions field. Contact us today to learn more about integrating AMRs into your business:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/phenikaa.x
- Hotline: (+84) 904530545
- Email: contact@phenikaa-x.com