A high-tech scheme to help parents of sick and premature babies keep in contact with their new-born infants while they are in hospital has been hailed as a “ground-breaking project” with real benefits for parents.
A pilot project will allow parents of babies in neonatal intensive care units to view their infants on an electronic tablet when they cannot be with them.
The BabySam technology was developed by electronics giants Samsung and should be up and running at Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy within weeks.
As part of the new system, wireless cameras will be installed near the baby’s cot, which are then connected to a Samsung Galaxy Tab electronic tablet.
Nurses at the hospital will then be able to transmit live video over a secure link to a second Samsung tablet, which the baby’s parents have.
Health Secretary Alex Neil said the scheme was a “fantastic example of Scotland working with global companies to ensure that our NHS is at the forefront of using cutting-edge technology”.
He said: “Having a baby in an intensive care unit can be an extremely stressful and worrying time.
“Through this innovative new technology parents will be able to view their baby and feel connected to them while they receive the vital treatment they need.”
Mr Neil added: “I am pleased that Samsung have chosen to work with our vibrant health sector on this ground-breaking project which will bring about real benefits for Scottish parents.”
While the scheme is being trialled by NHS Fife, who have worked with Samsung and Scotland’s new Digital Health Institute (DHI), it could be rolled out across the country.
Dr Sean Ainsworth, a consultant paediatrician and neonatologist with NHS Fife, said the health board was “delighted to take part in this pilot”.
He said: “Sometimes babies are admitted to a special care baby unit because they are either premature or just too poorly to remain with their mothers. We hope that BabySam will help overcome any sense of geographical isolation.”