In a groundbreaking collaboration with Dutch technology firm Holoconnects, Crescent Regional Hospital in Lancaster, Texas, is transforming patient-physician interactions through the use of holograms. This innovative approach aims to provide a more engaging and realistic experience for patients consulting with remote specialists.
The hospital has become the first in the United States to employ Holoconnects' cutting-edge Holobox technology, which uses an 86-inch device to project life-size, three-dimensional holograms in real time. "The results have been very promising, especially with patient engagement," Crescent’s CEO, Raji Kumar, remarked. "Hospital patients feel like they’re speaking to the physician in person. The 3-D effect is actually quite magical," she told KCYB News.
The holographic consultations represent a significant upgrade from traditional video or phone calls, providing a more immersive interaction. The Holobox room at Crescent offers patients a dedicated space to meet with their providers, and Kumar herself uses the technology to oversee patient discharge processes. From the physician's side, the experience is facilitated by devices equipped with cameras and microphones that generate the holographic image. Currently, a Holobox device is stationed at Crescent’s specialty care clinic in Farmers Branch.
This technology is primarily being utilized for pre- and post-operative appointments, as well as general check-ins. The hospital plans to expand the use of holograms with additional installations and the development of a portable projector to bring the technology directly into patient rooms. "We are letting our creativity flow in how to utilize this technology," Kumar said.
Under Kumar's leadership, Crescent Regional Hospital has undergone a remarkable transformation. Purchased in 2018, the 77-bed facility aims to serve the community while embracing advanced surgical practices. Previously, Kumar revitalized the Dallas Medical Center, leading to its acquisition by Prime Healthcare Services in 2012. She has continued this trend by acquiring Hill Regional Medical Center in 2020, ensuring its critical access services remain available in rural Texas.
Kumar's vision extends beyond just Crescent’s walls. She envisions mobile units equipped with Holobox technology to allow specialist consultations in rural and underserved hospitals. "My passion is preventing rural and critical access hospitals from closing," she shared.
The innovations at Crescent are part of a broader strategy to integrate remote care technologies, AI, and robotics, thereby elevating the quality of healthcare in underserved areas. By focusing on community engagement and building trust, Crescent aims to become a beacon of advanced medical practices. The hospital's proactive initiatives include a discounted cafeteria for seniors, community events like a 500-kid Easter egg hunt, and a nonprofit clinic serving the uninsured population nearby.
Crescent's efforts to diversify its services are evident in its growing network of primary care physicians, launch of a spine surgery program, and construction of a new catheterization lab. Upcoming plans include robotic-assisted spine surgeries and the creation of a brain lab, reflecting Kumar's commitment to positioning the hospital for future advancements in healthcare. "Let’s focus on what we need to do to position ourselves for the future," she emphasized.
