Commuters were given free health consultations by Dr. Hilary Jones via telepresence robots to mark the launch of new cutting-edge medical drama Pure Genius, premiering on Universal Channel, 16th November at 9pm
Yesterday in London, a team of telepresence robots hit the streets of London today with Dr. Hilary Jones at the helm. Providing real-time virtual doctor consultations for commuters and shoppers to celebrate the launch of new cutting-edge medical drama Pure Genius premiering on 16th November at 9pm on Universal Channel.
Commuters were surprised to see renowned TV doctor, Dr. Hilary Jones (GMTV, Lorraine) live on the screen of the robot as they were in Waterloo station and Oxford Circus this morning, and many took advantage of the free virtual health advice.
Showcasing what the future may hold for consumers, where a virtual doctor will be able to offer you a consultation whenever and wherever you may be, the telepresence robots are part of a medical technology called telehealth, which is in use in some high-tech hospitals and medical facilities around the world.
This type of technology is one of the many medical advancements featured in Universal Channel’s Pure Genius, along with;
· Brain-to-brain communication via EEG headsets, which are used to connect with coma patients
· Ingestible monitoring devices, including a tiny supercomputer the size of a pill that can wirelessly monitor a patient’s vital signs from inside the GI tract
· 3D printed organ models, which are made possible by detailed CT and MRI scans to create models – a practice becoming increasingly prevalent in the medical world
The show also features macrophage therapy, use of spider silk to repair bones and an electronic nose (e-nose) – all of which exist to some extent today and are a fascinating insight into what the future could look like in hospitals.
“We’re thrilled to premiere Pure Genius on Universal Channel on November 16th” says Colin McLeod, MD, UK & Emerging Markets, NBCUniversal International Networks. “Combining interesting characters, inspiring storylines and cutting-edge technology, it is a medical drama like no other that will appeal to drama fans and tech buffs alike. Drawing on this, our team of telepresence robots hit the streets of London today to showcase what may be in-store for future medical appointments, by being able to speak to your doctor anywhere you are.”
I was lucky enough to ask Dr. Hilary Jones about his thoughts on all the technological advances in medicine. In particular with a focus on digital consulting – did he there could be a danger that the most vulnerable and less technological advance members of society could fall between the cracks?
“Strangely enough some of the most vulnerable members of society are already benefitting from modern technology without even knowing it. For example, some elderly and frail patients are wearing bracelets with built in sensors which detect when they have had a fall or a stumble. The sensor sends a signal to the emergency services who can then be on hand within minutes if needed. How easy is that?
Of course, other technologies might require some specialist knowledge but the best medical technology will be the most user friendly. I recently carried out some virtual consultations using telepresence robots that were present on the concourse at Waterloo Station enabling me to see patients with skin conditions which I could see close up and to talk to others about various anxieties and concerns they had. They did not even have to wait to make an appointment or sit in a crowded waiting room”
The UK premiere of Pure Genius is Wednesday 16th November at 9pm, only on Universal Channel.
