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Current Advancements in Drone Technology for Medical Sample Transportation

Author

Listed:
  • Noel Stierlin

    (Faculty of Medical Sciences, Private University of the Principality of Liechtenstein, 9495 Triesen, Liechtenstein
    Labormedizinisches Zentrum Dr. Risch, 9470 Buchs, Switzerland)

  • Martin Risch

    (Labormedizinisches Zentrum Dr. Risch, 9470 Buchs, Switzerland)

  • Lorenz Risch

    (Faculty of Medical Sciences, Private University of the Principality of Liechtenstein, 9495 Triesen, Liechtenstein
    Labormedizinisches Zentrum Dr. Risch, 9470 Buchs, Switzerland
    Centre of Laboratory Medicine, University Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland)

Abstract

Background: The integration of drone technology into healthcare logistics presents a significant opportunity to enhance the speed, reliability, and efficiency of medical sample transportation. Methods: This paper provides a narrative review of current advancements in drone technology, focusing on its application in the rapid and secure delivery of medical samples, particularly in urban and remote regions where traditional transportation methods often face challenges. Drawing from recent studies and case reports, the review highlights the role of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI)-driven navigation systems, real-time monitoring, and secure payload management in mitigating logistical barriers like traffic congestion and geographical isolation. Results: Based on findings from various case studies, the review demonstrates how drones can significantly reduce transportation time and costs, while improving accessibility to healthcare services in underserved areas. Conclusions: This paper concludes that, while challenges such as regulatory hurdles and privacy concerns remain, ongoing technological advancements and the development of supportive regulatory frameworks have the potential to revolutionize medical logistics, ultimately improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.

Suggested Citation

  • Noel Stierlin & Martin Risch & Lorenz Risch, 2024. "Current Advancements in Drone Technology for Medical Sample Transportation," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 8(4), pages 1-26, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlogis:v:8:y:2024:i:4:p:104-:d:1497302
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Nyaaba, Albert Apotele & Ayamga, Matthew, 2021. "Intricacies of medical drones in healthcare delivery: Implications for Africa," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 66(C).
    2. Fang Li & Oliver Kunze, 2023. "A Comparative Review of Air Drones (UAVs) and Delivery Bots (SUGVs) for Automated Last Mile Home Delivery," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 7(2), pages 1-32, April.
    3. Marlena Robakowska & Daniel Ślęzak & Przemysław Żuratyński & Anna Tyrańska-Fobke & Piotr Robakowski & Paweł Prędkiewicz & Katarzyna Zorena, 2022. "Possibilities of Using UAVs in Pre-Hospital Security for Medical Emergencies," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(17), pages 1-15, August.
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