Disney stories and characters are being integrated into Philips Ambient Experience for MRI to support children undergoing scans in medical facilities worldwide.
The collaboration brings Disney content into Philips’ immersive MRI environment, which uses lighting, sound and visuals to help patients feel calmer before and during examinations. The Disney themes will be available through Philips Ambient Experience for MRI in 87 countries.
MRI scans can be challenging for children because of the unfamiliar clinical setting, noise from the scanner and the need to remain still for extended periods. Philips and Disney said the use of familiar characters and stories can help shift attention away from the clinical environment and create a more comfortable experience.
A multi-centre study across six hospitals in Europe found that, for children aged six to ten, post-scan stress levels were reduced by 43% compared with pre-exam levels when using Ambient Experience with Disney themes. The study also reported a 63% reduction in pauses during scans.
The Disney themes are designed to help children remain still during MRI procedures, which can reduce scan disruption and the need for repeat scans.
Patients and families can choose from characters and stories across Disney, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Marvel superheroes, Star Wars characters and Disney Princesses.
Lisa Haines, senior vice president, corporate social responsibility at The Walt Disney Company, said: “We’re proud to collaborate with Philips to extend that impact into MRI rooms in a meaningful way - using our beloved stories and characters to help provide moments of escape, normalcy, and reassurance during what can be an intimidating experience for kids in hospitals.”
Atul Gupta, chief medical officer, diagnosis and treatment at Philips, said: “By bringing Disney stories into the MRI environment, we are helping create a setting where children can feel more at ease and remain still during scans.”
Philips Ambient Experience for MRI is currently the exclusive MRI platform using the Disney themes. Early adopters include pilot hospitals across Europe, Rady Children’s Health of Orange County and Calderdale Royal Hospital.
Photos: The Walt Disney Company