This story was first published in digitalhealth.net
Alder Play app to transform children’s care
Created by Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, a new Alder Play app has been launched to distract patients having procedures in hospital through gaming technology.
Supported by NHS England and NHS Digital, and run in partnership with Alder Hey Children’s Charity, the app uses gaming and augmented reality to allow patients to choose and name their own avatar which will help them understand their hospital visit before they arrive and help calm them during their stay.
Parents will also be able to interact with a chatbot called ‘Ask Oli’ to ask questions about the hospital and what may happen to their child.
Nik Barnes, who originated the idea of Alder Play, explains: “Our vision is to transform the experience of children in hospital. We wanted to distract patients during procedures, and reduce their worries and fears. Rewarding children following procedures and treatments was another vital element as it helps to encourage their progress. Rewards can be given for something as simple as having a dressing changed, to getting out of bed after an operation or having a scan.”
Professor Keith McNeil, Chief Clinical Information Officer for Health and Care at NHS England, said: “This is a great example of innovative digital technology being applied to solve a real world problem for children, young people and their parents receiving care in today’s NHS. It looks great fun too!”
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