GoogleGlass and PrivacyLet me start by writing that I think that GoogleGlass is an amazing piece of technology.
I believe it represents the natural evolution of computing devices, and their adaptation to humans, of how we interact with them to make use of their, sometimes, almost magical capabilities; from the initial "room-size" computers, to PC's, laptops, iPods, smartphones, watches and now... a Glass....
Privacy is a right and protecting it, a duty, in any profession or human interaction. We should not blame the device for the consequence of its use, only the user. No matter what the amazing features and possibilities to do wonders with a particular tool, it is up to us, how to behave when utilizing it.
Pertaining Glass and specifically #GlassMed, I can't really understand the deep privacy concerns regarding its use at a Healthcare facility, by trained providers, for specific medical tasks. Obviating the multiple cameras that continuously record and monitor our life, specially inside institutions like hospitals, there are smartphones, tablets, iPods, laptops, etc. , all with photo and video capabilities, everywhere we look. It is not unusual to see people wandering the hallways, with a device in front of their humanities, isolating then from the physical world, but likely connecting them with a much more vast universe. I don't think we really get worried about someone recording us when we witness these events.
Yes, #GlassMed could become (I think it will become) an ubiquitous tool in many hospital areas. It will apparently help to detach the user from the device, except that it will do the opposite, in a good way. It will allow for us, instant, smooth, un-disruptive interaction with the device and its capabilities, including searching all published human knowledge; immediate accessing, recording and sharing of important information; potential communication with VIRTUALLY any one, including experts in the field of interest, concerned patient's relatives or patient advocates, students, etc.
When using computer technology, It used to be all at your fingertips...NOW it is right in front of your eye, your RIGHT eye!
@ZGJR
Dr. Grossman, thank you for writing this. I believe that my current hospital may have issues with me using Google Glass even on a trial basis. I will send this article to the administrators. I hope your opinion will help them make the right decision.
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