Philadelphia-based Penn Medicine, in collaboration with students at the University of Pennsylvania, has developed a virtual reality experience aimed at reducing fear and anxiety related to patient radiation.
The VR experience provides patients with a private, behind-the-scenes tour, guiding them through what to expect during their first radiation treatment, according to an Oct. 24 system news release. One video showcases treatment rooms and workshops of healthcare workers, introducing patients to the staff who create treatment plans, deliver care and explain the purpose of radiation masks and tattoos. A second video follows a patient through the building, leading up to the exam rooms, and features a discussion between the patient and her oncologists, during which she shares her positive experience with mask treatment.
The videos were produced through a collaboration between Penn Medicine Radiation Oncology and a class of virtual reality film students at the university. A VR experience for lung cancer patients launched in the fall.
Penn Medicine plans to integrate the VR experience into other disease teams and share the videos with additional Penn Medicine radiation therapy sites.