TOP 3 Gaps and Needs in advancing XR technologies in healthcare 

The healthcare sector is on the brink of a technological revolution, with XR (Extended Reality) set to transform patient care, medical training, and diagnostics. However, several critical gaps and challenges are hindering its widespread adoption. At VR Health Champions, we have identified the three key obstacles that must be overcome to unlock the full potential of XR in healthcare. 

Technological Integration and Validation 

Seamlessly integrating XR with medical devices presents a major challenge due to high bandwidth and data requirements for real-time 3D visualisation. Limited sensor access and hardware constraints, such as uncertified headsets and a lack of surgical tool compatibility, further restrict usability. Additionally, current XR display hardware does not fully accommodate the peculiarities of human vision, posing potential safety risks. Regulatory and safety validation are crucial for ensuring compliance and trust in XR applications. 

Strategic Partnerships and Market Access  

For XR to become a standard tool in healthcare, collaborations with med-tech enterprises are essential. These partnerships can drive innovation through pilot programmes, paving the way for market expansion. However, regulatory hurdles, reimbursement models, and stakeholder acceptance remain significant barriers. Effective alignment with healthcare institutions and policymakers is critical to integrating XR solutions into mainstream medical practice. 

Resource Availability and Scalability 

One of the biggest challenges is the limited access to specialised hardware. Independent hardware enablers, such as mobile chipsets and optical manufacturing capabilities, are scarce, making it difficult to develop XR solutions tailored for healthcare. Additionally, the high cost of GPUs restricts scalability. Expanding XR adoption across various healthcare settings requires not only better infrastructure and skilled personnel but also strong regulatory support and clinical validation to ensure widespread acceptance. 

A Three-Year Vision for XR Adoption in Healthcare 

To bridge these gaps, VR Health Champions has launched a three-year initiative across Central, Eastern, and Western Europe. Our goal is to accelerate the adoption of transformative VR/AR technologies, ensuring that XR solutions are safe, effective, and accessible within the healthcare ecosystem. By addressing these key challenges, we aim to unlock the full potential of XR, revolutionising patient care, surgical precision, and medical education.