PixelMax, Manchester Creates Metaverse World for Children's Hospital

The metaverse world at Alder Hey Children's Hospital aims to reassure young patients before they visit the radiology department.

16:12 12 June 2022

Manchester-based PixelMax has created a fully immersive 3D replica of Alder Hey Hospital's Radiology Department to allow young patients to explore and familiarise themselves with the surroundings prior to their appointment. The metaverse world also allows patients to interact with specialist devices from the comfort of their own homes. 

 

Visitors of the virtual world are given 'glowing' key cards to access the different areas of the radiology department while winning virtual badges for switching on and learning how the equipment work. The initiative is part of a bid to reduce delays and cancellation of appointments. 

 

PixelMax co-founder Andy Sands said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to unveil our digital twin of the radiology department. As an NHS Innovation Scout, we are committed to developing new ways to use technology to improve the healthcare experience for everyone.

 

“And this project with Alder Hey really exemplifies that spirit. By crafting our bespoke, interactive 3D world, we hope that visiting the hospital will become a lot less of a daunting prospect for young patients and their families.”

 

Alder Hey Innovation Clinical Director Iain Hennessey added: “Our objective is to use the most advanced technologies to solve real-world healthcare challenges.

 

“The quality of the virtual worlds PixelMax develops really stood out to us. It’s been a privilege to work with such a skilled team in creating such an impressive replica of our radiology department, which we hope will engage, educate and provide vital reassurance for visitors.”