"Instead of having to ask questions about the patient's condition, the doctor is able to see and receive additional timely information with the assistance of a clinician on-site with the patient, said Dr. Jimenez. "Compared to telephone consults, using the RP-7 to assess patients is as different as listening to a football game on a radio versus watching it on high-definition television." The nurse manager at ORMC's intensive care unit (ICU), Elizabeth Poalillo, believes that the robot may help ease the anxiety and fears of patients and family members.

"With the virtual electronic ICU environment, we would be able to have a remote consult using the RP-7 at another hospital to assess and talk with patients and families prior to a move to our facility," Ms. Poalillo said. "This make the transfer easier for patients and family because there has been one-on-one, direct communication with the doctors and clinicians who will be continuing the care."