Crescent Regional Hospital, located right outside of Dallas, Texas, is the first hospital in the U.S. to implement hologram technology for office visits. In the video above, from local news station WFAA, takes a look at how Crescent Regional is taking advantage of the new technology. Called the “Holobox,” the hologram system is a product of Dutch company Holoconnects, who says that the device measures 86″ tall and requires nothing more than an internet connection and a power source to function. The technology is allowing doctors at the hospital to meet for pre- or post-op appointments without having to drive between the hospital’s two facilities, located roughly 45 minutes from eachother.
“Our doctors in the north side of town don’t have to drive 30 miles to see one of their patients,” explains Crescent Regional CEO Raji Kumar. “They can just hop into the studio and have a consultation.”
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The benefits of the technology include a sense of connection and personalization that can be lost in a standard videoconferencing call. Using the Holobox, the doctor appears in full view, lifesize, and makes eye contact–small but essential qualities when discussing something as important as your health.