Dive Brief:
- Google Glass is a pair of eyeglasses which include smartphone components and a small transparent screen on the right lens allowing the user to access GPS, link to the Internet and send live audio and visual images what they're doing.
- For this study, a team of three doctors at Rhode Island Hospital worked with tech company called Pristine. Last year, Pristine developed the only version of Google Glass that meets federal privacy laws. The hospital purchased two pairs of the glasses, for $2,400 each.
- During the study, the physicians will use the special version of Google Glass to treat Emergency Department patients with dermatological issues over the next six months, sending images of skin conditions to consulting specialists who will see and hear what the wearer sees and hears, using a small tablet. The remote specialist will also be able to speak to the patient directly.
Dive Insight:
At present, experiments with Google Glass are something of a peculiarity. Having had the opportunity to check out Google Glass personally, I can tell you that while powerful and interesting, Google Glass is still somewhat awkward for mass use. However, under the right circumstances -- and this dermatological study may be those circumstances -- Google Glass could lead a new wave of experimentation and ultimately prove to be a telemedicine breakthrough.