at Pickens Institute of Technology in Aurora, Colorado. nursing student We treat very special patients.

“This is Hal, so he’s really the newest and most advanced medical simulator on the planet,” said Keith Garrett. Sim Lab instructor.

Hal assists medical students with a first-of-its-kind feature: a “brain” that uses artificial intelligence.

Hal can simulate dozens of medical conditions, from heart attacks to strokes. He can listen, answer questions, and give symptoms based on his condition. When he shines light, his pupil dilates. He sweats and even cries.

“This is like science fiction,” said Garrett. “This is the future of healthcare and healthcare education.”

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The medical simulator market is currently worth about $2 billion and is expected to double over the next decade as robotic patients like Hal become more and more realistic.

“What sets him apart is the animatronics,” said Graumard Scientific CEO Jim Archetto. “I can see his head facing me. I can see his eyes moving and blinking.”

Instructors like Amy Simmons say medical care is better when simulated patients look more realistic.

“Their ability to suspend disbelief is important so that they can come along and this suddenly become a real baby,” Simmons said.

“If a student walks into a room and it feels like a real-life scenario, they’re more likely to do their best,” Garrett said. You know, I feel a little sorry for him and I want to comfort him and make him feel better.”

At $100,000, Hal isn’t cheap, but schools and students say it’s worth it.

“I didn’t know this until I came here. It’s great to have the opportunity to learn.” nursing student.

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