March 24, 2000

MGHers may be a bit surprised when they spot in the hallways their newest colleague: a robot. During the first week of April, the Department of Radiology will add a robot to its team to transport radiological films to Emergency Radiology and the Dodd Interpretation Area. Previously, Radiology used a telelifter to carry heavy loads between sites. Because of the relocation of the department from WACC 2 to the Blake sub-basement, however, a new mode of transport became necessary.

Seventy hospitals nationwide currently use a robot to deliver a variety of items, from pharmaceuticals to medical records. During the pilot phase at the MGH, the robot will be making a trip once an hour from the Blake sub-basement to the Dodd Interpretation area on Blake 2, 8 to 11 am and 2 to 5 pm. The Radiology Department will be working with MGH Buildings and Grounds to determine the impact on the Blake service elevators. For more information, call Barbara Hubley, operations manager at 4-1059.

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