“Hi, I’m Moxi” – 25 Hospitals Adopt Nursing Assistant Robots
Some hospitals have started using Moxi robots to assist with logistical tasks, such as transporting linens, retrieving medications, and handling patients’ personal items.
At Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, a nursing assistant robot collects lab samples and delivers hygiene supplies. After completing its task, it displays a heart-shaped pattern with its blue eyes, indicating the job is done. It then quietly glides to the hospital’s supply room to start its next task.
Melanie Barone, the assistant director at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, shared, “I no longer have to walk 10,000 steps to find things in the farthest corner of the hospital to bring to patients.”
According to CBS, Cedars-Sinai, which has 900 beds, began using Moxi two years ago to assist with logistical tasks, and now has three Moxi robots in operation. David Marshall, the chief nursing officer, noted, “Patients, staff, visitors, and children all respond enthusiastically. Some patients even ask if Moxi can come back to say hello after their surgery.”
Diligent Robotics, the manufacturer, states that Moxi saves hospital staff time, allowing them to focus more on patient care. Currently, there are 25 hospitals across the United States utilizing Moxi robots.
Casey Wilbert, vice president of Rochester Regional Health in Rochester, New York, reported that they have 528 beds and started using Moxi in 2023, with eight robots currently in use. “One advantage of robots is that they don’t require overtime pay, and they don’t call in sick,” he mentioned.
However, Marshall from Cedars-Sinai emphasizes the limitations of robotic technology. “Robots touch objects, while humans touch people. They will never be able to hold a patient’s hand or help them with sweating or brushing their teeth,” he said.
If Moxi robots signify the entry of robotics into the workforce, the next step involves developing humanoid robots capable of performing a broader range of complex tasks. Barclays analyst Zornitsa Todorova predicts that the humanoid robot market will grow from approximately $20 billion to $40 billion over the next decade, potentially reaching as high as $200 billion, helping to fill labor shortages in defense, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Michael Yip, an associate professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at UC San Diego, is developing surgical robots. “I believe surgical assistants will be available within the next ten years,” he added. “They will have the capability to operate autonomously in lower-risk applications, such as cutting soft tissue.”
Some children’s hospitals also provide therapeutic robots capable of interacting with patients.
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