Summary:
OtheReality is revolutionizing doctor empathy using virtual reality technology.
The platform offers individualized empathy workouts for medical staff.
Founded by Yair Neiger, who started the project at age 15.
The startup has pivoted from education to focusing on medical staff training.
A recent collaboration with Sheba Medical Center aims to improve patient care.
If you've ever left a medical appointment feeling unheard, there’s a game-changing startup you should know about: OtheReality. Founded by a visionary teen, this Israeli social impact startup has developed a virtual reality (VR) platform aimed at enhancing empathy among medical professionals, a crucial factor for improving patient experiences and reducing staff burnout.
What is OtheReality?
OtheReality offers individualized empathy workouts for medical personnel, immersing them in virtual scenarios that simulate critical doctor-patient interactions, such as delivering difficult news. After these VR sessions, participants engage in an app-based workshop to further develop their cognitive and motivational empathy alongside improving their communication skills.
The Teenage Visionary Behind the Idea
The concept was born in the mind of Yair Neiger, who at just 15 years old realized the importance of empathy in healthcare. Frustrated by a lesson that failed to equip him with tools for understanding others, he set out to create a VR empathy experience that could be applicable across various educational sectors.
A Journey of Growth
Despite being a first-time entrepreneur, Yair’s journey began at a youth hackathon where he won a prize that allowed him to join a startup accelerator. His participation in the MassChallenge in 2017 further propelled his efforts, and upon returning from a validation trip to the US, he shifted the company’s focus from education to medical staff training. This pivot aims to significantly enhance doctor-patient relationships.
Collaborations and Future Plans
In March, OtheReality partnered with Bar-Ilan University and Sheba Medical Center, securing $100,000 in funding for a pilot program in Israeli hospitals. CEO Elik Almog expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with leading centers for digital innovation to revolutionize patient care through continuous empathy training for medical teams.
Yair Neiger reflects on his journey with pride, noting that his youthful idea has blossomed into a promising startup. "The future is looking bright, and it’s exciting to make a real impact in the world of healthcare," he states.
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