A Remote Nurse with OriHime
Arisa Nemoto, a 26-year-old wheelchair user, has always dreamed of becoming a nurse. However, a chronic fatigue disorder forced her to drop out of college and rely on in-home care. Despite her limitations, Nemoto's passion for healthcare remained strong.
When she heard about the OriHime robot, a telepresence device that allows people to remotely control a humanoid robot, Nemoto saw a path to fulfilling her dream. She applied to be a pilot for the robot at Musashino Hospital in Kodaira, Tokyo.
After a successful interview, Nemoto began working as a receptionist at the hospital, remotely operating OriHime from her home in Shizuoka Prefecture. This technology allows her to interact with patients, answer questions, and provide directions, all while remaining comfortable and safe in her own environment.
Nemoto's story highlights the potential of telepresence robots to bridge the gap between physical limitations and career aspirations. OriHime not only empowers individuals like Nemoto but also addresses labor shortages in various industries.
The success of the OriHime project at Musashino Hospital demonstrates the growing role of technology in healthcare and its ability to create inclusive and accessible work environments. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative applications that empower individuals and transform industries.