University Health in San Antonio recently partnered with Aflac, a leading provider of supplemental health insurance products, to provide pediatric patients with a unique and innovative source of comfort and joy during their treatment. The collaboration introduced the My Special Aflac Duck, an animatronic robotic companion specifically designed to interact with and provide emotional support to children undergoing medical treatment for cancer and blood disorders.
Created over a span of 18 months with input from over 100 children, families, and healthcare professionals, the My Special Aflac Duck utilizes medical play, realistic motions, and emotional emulation to engage with young patients and help them manage the emotional aspects of their treatment. So far, more than 25,000 of these robotic ducks have been distributed to children with cancer and sickle cell disease free of charge.
During the event at University Health, pediatric patients had the opportunity to participate in a My Special Aflac Duck demonstration before receiving their own robotic companion. The event also featured engaging activities such as creating birth certificates and beaded necklaces for their ducks, coloring, and more. The patients and their families were able to stay for a duck reveal party, enjoying a day of fun and festive activities.
The My Special Aflac Duck is equipped with interactive features, including a mobile app for virtual care, customizable soundscapes for soothing visuals and sounds, smart sensors for touch and awareness, a calming heartbeat, and breathing vibrations. This innovative approach to pediatric care has earned the My Special Aflac Duck recognition, including being named Best in Show at CES in Las Vegas and being featured on Time Magazine’s list of Best Inventions.
Healthcare providers, support organizations, and families can request a My Special Aflac Duck free of charge for children aged 3 and older who have been diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease.
FAQ
1. Where can healthcare providers and families request a My Special Aflac Duck?
Healthcare providers, support organizations, and families can request a My Special Aflac Duck free of charge for children aged 3 and older who have been diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease by visiting [source domain].
2. How does the My Special Aflac Duck provide emotional support to pediatric patients?
The My Special Aflac Duck utilizes medical play, realistic motions, and emotional emulation to interact with children undergoing medical treatment for cancer and blood disorders. It serves as a comforting presence and helps children manage the emotional aspects of their treatment.
3. What features does the My Special Aflac Duck have?
The My Special Aflac Duck is equipped with interactive features, including a mobile app for virtual care, customizable soundscapes, smart sensors for touch and awareness, a calming heartbeat, and breathing vibrations.
4. How many My Special Aflac Ducks have been distributed so far?
To date, more than 25,000 My Special Aflac Ducks have been delivered to children with cancer and sickle cell disease, completely free of charge.
5. What recognition has the My Special Aflac Duck received?
The My Special Aflac Duck was named Best in Show at CES in Las Vegas and featured on Time Magazine’s list of Best Inventions, highlighting its innovative approach to pediatric care.