A robot by the name of VGo is being used as a new tool for finding and reducing concussions among football players.
Dartmouth College introduced VGo as part of its goal of improving the mental health of athletes, according to NPR. The 4-foot robot features a screen and camera on top that certified athletic trainers can use to communicate with players and figure if they have a concussion and what should be done to keep them safe.
The robot is designed to be a more advanced way to help players with head trauma, as traditional methods include cushioning helmets and using safer methods of practicing.
Brain specialists will be able to control VGo from miles away, Discovery News reported. The machine's creators even took the time to outfit it with a Dartmouth green jersey.
However, the VGo hasn't won everyone's approval. There are some who believe using a smartphone or tablet is more convenient. Steve Broglio, director of the Neurosport Research Lab at the University of Michigan, said there are some issues that you wouldn't be able to solve through a computer screen.
"It's good," Broglio said, "but it's an adjunct at this point."
VGo's creators also believe the robot could be helpful when certified athletic trainers and brain specialist aren't physically at a practice or a game, NPR reported.
Sarah Pletcher, director of the Dartmouth-Hitchcock's Center for Telehealth, said schools using the robot can have "a virtual presence on the sidelines - essentially one doctor could be on the sidelines of a dozen games all at the same time." She added that the robot could also be used by schools that can't afford to hire medical professionals for different games and practices.
Dartmouth hopes VGo will be able to help athletes avoid concussions in other sports as well, such as hockey, basketball and lacrosse.
