In this paper we discuss the possible use of humanoid robots within the healthcare services context. Recently, new technologies such as robotics have been further developed and are currently being assessed for use within healthcare services. A research project was carried out to explore whether the humanoid robot EVE can enhance healthcare services in rehabilitation and home assistance settings. In the project we carried out empirical studies to investigate the possible functionalities and use of a robot such as EVE for healthcare personnel and patients. In this paper, we took a step further and asked: What will it take to implement the robot EVE as a healthcare service? We conducted two workshops and a focus group interview with a total of 21 participants (healthcare staff and management representatives) where we discussed possible impacts, requirements, and strategies for a sustainable implementation of humanoid robots. Based on our findings, we discuss key topics such as contextual specificities, robot control paradigms, and the concepts of robots as a service/as a product. We conclude by listing recommendations for future implementations of humanoid robots in healthcare.

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Humanoid Robots, A Future Health Care Service?

  • Linda Sørensen,
  • Magnhild Kaarstad,
  • Maren Eitrheim,
  • Alexandra Fernandes,
  • Kine Reegård

摘要

In this paper we discuss the possible use of humanoid robots within the healthcare services context. Recently, new technologies such as robotics have been further developed and are currently being assessed for use within healthcare services. A research project was carried out to explore whether the humanoid robot EVE can enhance healthcare services in rehabilitation and home assistance settings. In the project we carried out empirical studies to investigate the possible functionalities and use of a robot such as EVE for healthcare personnel and patients. In this paper, we took a step further and asked: What will it take to implement the robot EVE as a healthcare service? We conducted two workshops and a focus group interview with a total of 21 participants (healthcare staff and management representatives) where we discussed possible impacts, requirements, and strategies for a sustainable implementation of humanoid robots. Based on our findings, we discuss key topics such as contextual specificities, robot control paradigms, and the concepts of robots as a service/as a product. We conclude by listing recommendations for future implementations of humanoid robots in healthcare.