Developed by Google and groups of technology volunteers, this medical tablet was created to help doctors record medical information relating to Ebola with ease. Since sheets of paper can quickly be contaminated, during the worst phases of Ebola's outbreak doctors could be found shouting notes about patients over secure fences. In order to leverage technology to its full potential, Medecins Sans Frontieres put out a call for a tablet that would streamline the note-taking process.
The result is a tablet that can be used while wearing gloves and even in conditions of bad storms and high humidity. In order to keep the device as sterile as possible, the tablet can also be doused in a solution of 0.5% chlorine, which kills Ebola. While this exposure to chemicals would cause burns to the human skin, the performance of this tough tablet is unaffected.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Medical Tablets for Extreme Environments
- There is an opportunity for companies to develop medical tablets that can be used in extreme environments, like those experienced during the Ebola outbreak.
- Sterilizable Tablets
- There is an opportunity for companies to develop tablets that can be sterilized without damage for use in sterile environments.
- Rugged Medical Devices
- There is an opportunity for companies to develop medical devices, like tablets, that are rugged and can withstand harsh conditions that medical professionals may encounter.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Medical Technology
- The medical technology industry can capitalize on the need for rugged and sterilizable medical devices, like tablets.
- Emergency and Disaster Response
- Emergency and disaster response industries can benefit from the development of medical devices that can be used in extreme environments, like those experienced during the Ebola outbreak.
- Healthcare
- The healthcare industry can benefit from the development of medical devices that can withstand harsh conditions, like tablets that can be sterilized and used in sterile environments.
