At a Children's Hospital in South Jersey, A New Tool For Health Care
By David Madden
PENNSAUKEN, N.J. (CBS) -- A local pediatric rehabilitation facility cut a ceremonial ribbon today on a newly expanded facility in Pennsauken and unveiled its newest staff member.
The new clinic at Weisman Children's Rehabilitation Hospital features what they call a "telehealth robot." It's controlled remotely by a doctor who can hold a personal consultation with a patient even if the doctor is far away.
Such as in Vermont, where Dr. Bern Terry (on video at left) developed the concept.
"I could be a doctor in a neighboring hospital who has sent one of my patients to Weisman for rehabilitation, and I can stay linked to that patient because Weisman has one of these robots available," Terry explained via video link.
The robot, currently called "Vego," can also be put to use for family visits when needed. Medical experts believe the robot will also help in dealing with children who are afraid of their surroundings.
By the way, Vego will get a new name -- once the human staff comes up with one.
