Introduction
In a world where technology is rapidly evolving, the healthcare industry is not left behind. The integration of virtual reality and the metaverse into healthcare practices is creating new opportunities for service delivery, particularly in the field of genetic counseling. A recent study titled "Evaluation of Group Genetic Counseling Sessions via a Metaverse-based Application" explores the potential of using a metaverse platform as an alternative service delivery model for group genetic counseling.
The Study
The study involved 131 participants divided into three groups: patients, families, and interested individuals. These participants attended a 20-minute group genetic counseling session on hereditary breast cancer via a metaverse platform, followed by a 10-minute Q&A session. The results were promising, showing a significant increase in participants' knowledge and high satisfaction rates.
Key Findings
- Increased Knowledge: Participants' post-educational knowledge scores significantly improved, indicating the effectiveness of the metaverse platform in delivering educational content.
- High Satisfaction: A majority of participants expressed satisfaction with the session, appreciating the convenience and accessibility of the metaverse platform.
- Advantages: The main advantage noted was the ability to participate regardless of location, making it a flexible option for busy schedules.
- Challenges: Some participants reported issues with internet connectivity, which could lead to missing content.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners in the field of genetic counseling, the study highlights the potential of the metaverse as a tool to enhance service delivery. Here are some ways practitioners can leverage this technology:
- Expand Reach: Use the metaverse to reach a broader audience, including those in remote areas who may not have access to traditional counseling services.
- Enhance Engagement: The interactive nature of the metaverse can make educational sessions more engaging and memorable for participants.
- Optimize Resources: Group sessions in the metaverse can save time and resources, allowing practitioners to serve more clients efficiently.
Encouragement for Further Research
While the study presents promising results, further research is necessary to explore the full potential of the metaverse in genetic counseling. Practitioners are encouraged to consider the following:
- Explore Different Platforms: Experiment with various metaverse platforms to find the one that best suits your needs and those of your clients.
- Evaluate Long-term Impact: Conduct longitudinal studies to assess the long-term impact of metaverse-based counseling on patient outcomes.
- Address Challenges: Work on improving internet connectivity and platform stability to ensure a seamless experience for participants.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Evaluation of Group Genetic Counseling Sessions via a Metaverse-based Application.
