Google looking to use drones to deliver emergency medical help

Google patent - sketch #1

Google’s interest in healthcare isn’t only virtual. Beyond platforms, devices and services, the company is also looking to include drones in the mix.

Recently, the search giant has filed for a patent describing a system where drones would bring medical aid to people in distress. As outlined in the patent application, this sort of setup would be more efficient than calling 911, with drones coming to save the day and help with such medicals issues as anaphylatic shock or cardiac arrest.

Said drone is summoned by a portable box that sends its location via WiFi, cellular connection or even a plain old telephone service connection. The drone would autonomously or with a help of an operator come to the location and, if needed, deliver appropriate supplies, like an epipen. In the best case scenario, the mentioned portable box would be used to define what kind of help/device should a drone bring to the scene. It would also provide step-by-step instructions on how to use the supplies via video.

Google patent - sketch #2To ensure the drones can help anyone in any situation, Google noted that flying robot could come in many forms, like a floatplane that can land on water if need be. The service would also send a medical support request to the nearest dispatcher to ensure an ambulance is also on the way.

The patent filing goes on to describe the benefits, with the most words going to outline the efficiency of such a system. The basic premise is simple though – a drone could arrive faster and deliver the goods to the people in need.

This, however, is not the first time the tech giant has shown interest in a communicative drone system. A similar patent was filed in October 2014 for Google’s delivery drone system, dubbed Project Wing, to work with on-the-ground, four-wheeled robots.

Also, the search giant is not the only company looking to use drones to deliver medical supplies; in September 2014, mHealth Spot reported about Deutsche Post DHL trialing drone-powered medicine deliveries.

[Via: TechInsider]