Chicago-based MedEx is launching the first line of ambulances in the country to use Google Glass to visually connect paramedics in the field. The company is rolling out 10 ambulances with Google Glass devices equipped with software that enables paramedics to transmit live audio and video to hospitals.

Without the Glass, paramedics have to communicate with doctors via a two-way radio or a cell phone; and with Glass, they are able to send real-time footage of the patient directly to a hospital tablet or desktop while the ambulance is on-route. This in turn provides doctors with critical visual information even before the patient arrives.

MedEx launched the smart glass program at The Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago and they plan to expand it to more area hospitals throughout the year.

“At MedEx, we work hard to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to equipping our ambulances with the latest innovations,” said MedEx CEO Lauren Rubinson-Morris. “Google Glass is particularly helpful in medical situations involving health risks that require visual assessment for treatment, such as trauma, burns, cardiac arrest, strokes and seizures.”

The program has been in development for two years now; it’s HIPAA compliant, providing highest level of security and patient privacy.

[Via: ChicagoInno]