As part of a new initiative to reinvent the patient experience, The Walt Disney Co. pledged more than $100 million in cash, products and services to children's hospitals across the globe.
Leveraging their global experts in theme park and family entertainment design, dubbed "imagineers," the company plans to introduce Disney-themed elements into the patient care setting. In particular, the company will allow patients to choose their favorite Disney characters to surround them during their stay using a RFID-based system, create themed treatment rooms with interactive murals, and make Disney entertainment available in rooms and themed pop-up movie theaters.
"Using the powerful combination of our beloved characters and legendary creativity, we're planning to transform the patient experience in children's hospitals around the world — creating a personalized and engaging atmosphere that will inspire young patients and ease the stress of a hospital stay," said Robert Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Co.
Houston-based Texas Children's Hospital will be the first hospital to collaborate with Disney on this initiative.
Disney will work with physicians, nurses, hospital administrators, parents and child life professionals to help make the comforting care experience successful.