Employing Autonomous Robots to Reduce Radiation Exposure to Healthcare Workers
Care Process & Redesign
Technology
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
SingHealth
9 October 2025
To explore the use of autonomous robots to reduce radiation exposure to healthcare workers in the Myocardial Perfusion. The use of autonomous robots shows promise in reducing radiation exposure for healthcare workers, contributing to a safer working.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 09 October 2025
Tags: Automation, Robotics/Autonomous Systems, Workflow Redesign, Quality Improvement, Value Based Care, Safe Care, Human Resource, Staff Wellbeing, Care Process ＆ Redesign, Technology, Robotics, Assistive Technology, Organisation Development
About this Content
Aims
To explore the use of autonomous robots to reduce radiation exposure to healthcare workers in the Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) clinic.
Background
The demand for diagnostic radiotracer imaging has increased, leading to higher radiation exposure for healthcare workers. Existing radiation safety measures have remained relatively unchanged.
Methods
The project involved implementing an autonomous robot in the MPI clinic to transport radioisotopes, thereby reducing radiographers' exposure to radiation. The robot was configured to operate safely within the clinic environment.
Results
Mean bi-monthly TLD gamma and skin dose measurements decreased from above 0.6 mSv to 0.52 mSv and 0.53 mSv respectively, indicating a promising decrease in radiation exposure.
Conclusion
The use of autonomous robots shows promise in reducing radiation exposure for healthcare workers, contributing to a safer working environment and potentially attracting more professionals to the field.
Lessons Learnt
Observing daily operations is crucial to identify potential issues that may impede the function of the robot. Feedback from radiographers was essential for optimizing the robot's configuration.
Keywords
Radiation, Autonomous Robots, Safety, Healthcare Workers
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | SingHealth |
Organization(s) Involved | National Heart Centre Singapore |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Diagnostic Radiography |
Project Lead(s) | Associate Professor Angela Koh Su-Mei |
Project Member(s) | Teng Xue Fen |
Connect with this contributor!
Associate Professor Angela Koh Su-Mei - angela.koh.s.m@singhealth.com.sg