P-462 Exploring the potential of fertility clinics in the metaverse: opportunities, challenges, and ethical implications
Authors: Morgan J 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Study question
Could the integration of the metaverse enhance patient care in fertility clinics, and what are its potential challenges and ethical implications?

Summary answer
Integrating the metaverse into fertility care could enhance assisted reproduction, improving patient and provider experiences. However, it presents challenges in privacy, accessibility, and ethical implications.

What is known already
The digital transformation in healthcare, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has underscored the potential of the metaverse in medical fields. Utilising technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), the metaverse offers significant opportunities for enhancing patient care, engagement, medical training, and support. Its applications across various medical disciplines demonstrate its capacity to improve healthcare experiences. However, the specific implementation of the metaverse in fertility clinics, aimed at meeting the distinct expectations of tech-savvy Millennials and Generation Z, and potentially enhancing patient experience, treatment efficacy, and support mechanisms, is yet to be explored.

Study design, size, duration
Conducted in November and December 2023, this systematic literature review ensured a focused and up-to-date analysis of the current applications and implications of the metaverse in healthcare. This review spanned major databases, leading ART journals, and pertinent industry reports. Over two months, 468 metaverse-related publications, from 2007-2024, were identified, with 81 addressing healthcare (2022-2024). However, only one paper specifically addressed ART in the context of IVF metaverse clinics, indicating a significant research gap.

Participants/materials, setting, methods
This study involved analysis of academic literature, industry reports, and real-world implementations to assess the metaverse’s current use in healthcare. Research keywords included ‘metaverse’, ‘healthcare’, ‘(in)fertility’ and ‘assisted reproduction’, focusing on present and potential metaverse applications in healthcare provision, advanced patient care technologies, innovative training methodologies, and practical uses in clinical settings. Additionally, it scrutinised challenges and ethical issues associated with metaverse technology and existing platforms, providing a comprehensive overview of its implications in healthcare.

Main results and the role of chance
Current applications of the metaverse in healthcare are evident in specialties such as urology, mental health, ophthalmology, chronic pain management, cancer, and paediatrics. Innovative technologies, including haptic tools and smart operating theatres, have enabled the development of complex surgical techniques and practices. Metaverse conferences featuring avatar delegates introduced a new dimension to professional interactions. Digital twins are used to simulate patient scenarios, enabling personalised treatment plans that improve the accuracy of diagnoses and treatments. In medical and nursing education, VR offers immersive, hands-on learning experiences.
In the context of ART, the metaverse holds promise for enhancing telemedicine through AI-driven avatars, advanced patient monitoring, and haptic simulation training for procedures like egg collections, embryo transfer, and ICSI. Patients may experience immersive virtual tours of typically restricted laboratory areas, interact with digital representations of their embryos, and engage in immersive online support communities.
However, significant challenges persist, including the maintenance of patient privacy, addressing technological disparities, and managing billing complexities in virtual environments. The study emphasises the critical importance of data privacy and security, particularly concerning the sensitivity of fertility-related information. Additionally, it raises questions about the authenticity of patient-provider interactions in a virtual setting and the potential for deepening digital divide.

Limitations, reasons for caution
The study’s limitations include a scarcity of literature on the metaverse in future fertility clinics, as evidenced by just one online paper addressing IVF metaverse clinics. This gap limits a comprehensive understanding of the metaverse’s applications in ART, and raises concerns about consistent and secure access to these emerging technologies.

Wider implications of the findings
This research highlights the transformative potential of the metaverse in fertility care, emphasising focused research, ethical considerations, and infrastructure development to harness its benefits. Highlighting the importance of navigating challenges such as data privacy, technological disparities, and regulatory frameworks to ensure optimal patient care in this evolving digital landscape.

Trial registration number
not-applicable