Healthcare evolves alongside technology, and the next major shift may be happening literally in front of our eyes. We are talking about smart glasses.
What are smart glasses?
Smart glasses, like “Meta” glasses, are glasses that blend everyday style with powerful technology. Unlike typical glasses, smart glasses offer hands-free control to capture images and videos, provide real-time information, and support voice commands. With a simple command you can ask AI a question, to play a song, send a message, or look at what you are pointing to and have it described.
In healthcare, potential uses include:
- Hands-free clinical documentation: Providers can use voice commands to dictate notes or capture key findings.
- Workflow: Allows providers to access information without repeatedly using computers.
- Real-time expert assistance: Could connect a city specialist with a rural specialist who can view the situation in real time and provide advice, improving access to care.
- AI-Driven diagnostics: Providers can capture a photo of a patient’s physical symptom and prompt AI to analyze the image and provide insight.
Why are they relevant now in healthcare?
Smart glasses have the potential to change how providers document care and communicate with teams. However, they raise important questions about privacy and security.
What could go wrong?
- Patient privacy and HIPAA: May increase the risk of privacy breaches if PHI is recorded or shared improperly whether it be by providers, staff, patients, or visitors.
- Unauthorized recording: Cameras and microphones may capture patients or staff without their knowledge.
- Cybersecurity: Stored data may be accessed without authorization.
- Patient consent: Patients should understand when and how the technology is being used. Some models of smart glasses have indications (like a LED light) that shows when a video or photo is being taken. It can be disabled, making it difficult for someone unfamiliar with this technology to recognize what is happening.
- Distractions: Overreliance on technology could have a negative impact on provider-patient relationships or increase medical errors.
What can healthcare organizations do?
The answer is not to reject innovation, but to implement it responsibly.
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- Develop and update policies on the use of smart glasses and the possible restriction of use by patients and visitors.
- Train staff and leaders on privacy, responsible use, expectations, and any restrictions regarding the use of these devices.
- Conduct regular privacy and security audits to identify and address potential risks.
- Implement technical safeguards, like encryption.
Smart glasses have the potential to improve healthcare, but organizations must balance innovation with patient privacy, security, and trust. By implementing thoughtful polices and safeguards, healthcare organizations can embrace new technologies and protect the patients they serve. We can help.