Disney has collaborated with Dutch health-tech multinational Philips to create themed MRI scanners for children undergoing imaging procedures.
The scanners, which launched this week in the U.S. and U.K. among a handful of other countries, will see Disney stories and characters integrated into Philips Ambient Experience for MRI to create an immersive environment resulting in a more calming experience for patients.
MRI scanners are typically large, loud and cramped and require patients to lie very still for up to 40 minutes. If a patient is unable to complete a scan adequately they may require additional scans or even sedation.
A study conducted at six European hospitals showed that the Disney-themed ambient experience reduced stress levels in post-scan paediatric patients aged between 6 and 10. It also saw pauses during scans drop by 63% compared to those without intervention.
Medical facilities with eligible machines across 87 countries worldwide are eventually set to receive the tech.
“At Disney, we believe stories have the power to bring comfort and emotional connection to children and families,” said Lisa Haines, SVP for corporate social responsibility at The Walt Disney Company. “We’re proud to collaborate with Philips to extend that impact into MRI rooms in a meaningful way—using our beloved stories and characters to help provide moments of escape, normalcy, and reassurance during what can be an intimidating experience for kids in hospitals.”
Philips’ chief medical officer Atul Gupta said: “By bringing Disney stories into the MRI environment, we are helping create a setting where children can feel more at ease and remain still during scans. Reducing stress can improve the experience for young patients and their families, while helping care teams deliver efficient, high-quality imaging so they can care for more children each day, supporting better care for more people.”
