Bynahm: The Virtual Reality-Powered App Connecting Hospitalized Patients with Loved Ones
Introduction
In Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA) has developed a revolutionary virtual reality-enabled application called Bynahm, designed to bridge the gap between hospitalized patients and their loved ones. The app uses virtual reality (VR) and 360-degree cameras to create a virtual environment where patients can connect with their families, even when in-person visits are restricted.
The Concept and Challenges
Bynahm was conceived to address the emotional disconnect between patients and their families, particularly during pandemics like COVID-19 or when distance hinders in-person visits. The app was designed to foster communication, ensuring patients feel connected, reducing loneliness, and anxiety during hospital stays.
Features and Functionality
Bynahm offers a range of features, including:
- Virtual Reality Environment: Patients can "meet" with family and friends in a virtual environment, reducing the sense of isolation and disconnection.
- 360-Degree Cameras: The app uses 360-degree cameras to create an immersive experience, allowing patients to engage with their loved ones in a more engaging and interactive way.
- Security and Privacy: The app prioritizes patient and video call security, ensuring that all interactions are private and secure.
- Survey-Based Analytics: After each call session, users receive a survey to provide feedback on their experience, helping hospitals analyze user satisfaction, identify areas for improvement, and measure the app’s impact on patient well-being and communication effectiveness.
Implementation and Rollout
Bynahm was first piloted in hospitals serving regions with high volumes of patients unable to receive visitors regularly, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. The app saw strong adoption, with hospitals reporting higher patient satisfaction scores after the rollout.
Early Feedback and Outcomes
Patients and their families praised the app for its simplicity, convenience, and emotional benefits. Hospitals reported reduced stress and anxiety, improved patient satisfaction, and enhanced emotional support for patients and their families.
Operational Efficiencies and ROI
The app streamlines the process for nurses, reducing manual coordination and improving patient satisfaction, which can lead to better hospital ratings and more patients. By reducing stress and improving emotional well-being, the app can also shorten recovery times and lower costs.
Alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Digital Government Strategy
Bynahm aligns with Vision 2030’s strategy by promoting digital transformation in healthcare services, enhancing patient experiences, and supporting improved healthcare accessibility and patient-centered services.
Future Expansions and Plans
Future versions of the app may include AI-powered health monitoring during calls and expansion to international hospitals or outpatient care. The app is designed to be scalable, allowing for easy integration with existing hospital systems and workflows.
Lessons Learned and Advice for Other Healthcare Organizations
- Keep the user interface simple: Ensure that both patients and staff can easily use the app.
- Invest in staff training: Provide comprehensive training to ensure a smooth adoption process.
- Anticipate privacy concerns: Address potential privacy issues with strong security measures.
- Start small: Launch a pilot program to identify challenges early and make necessary adjustments.
- Collect and act on user feedback: Continuously gather feedback and use it to improve the app’s functionality and user experience.
Conclusion
Bynahm is a groundbreaking app that has the potential to revolutionize patient care by bridging the gap between hospitalized patients and their loved ones. By leveraging virtual reality and 360-degree cameras, the app provides a secure and engaging platform for patients to stay connected, reducing loneliness and anxiety. As healthcare organizations look to the future, Bynahm serves as a prime example of how innovative technology can improve patient care and satisfaction.
FAQs
Q: What is Bynahm?
A: Bynahm is a virtual reality-enabled application designed to connect hospitalized patients with their loved ones.
Q: What was the concept behind Bynahm?
A: Bynahm was conceived to address the emotional disconnect between patients and their families, particularly during pandemics like COVID-19 or when distance hinders in-person visits.
Q: What are the key features of Bynahm?
A: Bynahm offers virtual reality environments, 360-degree cameras, security and privacy measures, and survey-based analytics.
Q: How was Bynahm rolled out?
A: The app was piloted in hospitals serving regions with high volumes of patients unable to receive visitors regularly, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Q: What were the early outcomes and feedback?
A: Patients and families praised the app for its simplicity, convenience, and emotional benefits, while hospitals reported improved patient satisfaction, reduced stress and anxiety, and enhanced emotional support.
