In partnership with Microsoft Canada and Children’s Miracle Network, McMaster Children’s Hospital recently launched the CLICK (Child Life Interactive Computers for Kids) program. CLICK has been designed to improve the patient experience through the power of play and create a sense of normalcy for children who experience lengthy hospitalizations.
The program provides tablet PCs, software, HD webcams, digital cameras, projectors, Xbox, Kinect and more to hospitalized children during their stay. The technology helps reduce anxiety and stress by allowing patients to play games, access to Internet search engines and social networks, e-mail, create personal blogs, post messages, track homework assignments and chat online with friends and family.
“Microsoft is committed to CLICK because we have seen how technology can change the patient experience,” said Michael Eisen, Chief Legal Officer, Microsoft Canada. “Our goal is to make sure hospitalized children are not isolated and have creative tools to get their minds back on having fun.”
As part of the Program, Microsoft Canada is also funding a Child Life Specialist to teach the children and their parents how to use the technology. Staff at McMaster Children’s Hospital have taken the program one step further and are integrating the technology into rehabilitation, education and other aspects of pediatric care.
“The unique aspect of this program is that it benefits children of all ages and can be used for so many purposes within the hospital environment,” said Pearl Veenema, President and CEO, Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation. “Bringing this technology to Mac Kids will enable our young patients and their families to remain connected to the outside world, explore options for creativity, support rehabilitation, and provide distraction from the serious conditions that brought them into our care.”
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