Medical Robotics Technicians

Medical robots are in increasing use by the healthcare industry. According to research studies, their use in surgery reduces pain and discomfort, lessens the risk of infection (due to smaller surgical incisions), and creates faster recovery times than traditional surgical techniques. Medical robots are also used in drug development, patient rehabilitation, patient care assistance, hospital logistics (i.e., autonomous mobile robots), cleaning and disinfection, pharmacy and laboratory automation, telehealth and remote care settings, and for other purposes.

Medical robotics technicians who work in product development and manufacturing help engineers and scientists design (using computer-aided design software and other technology), build (using prototypes), test, and manufacture medical robots.

Once a medical robot is manufactured, technicians who are employed by the manufacturer set up and configure the robot (including its operating software) at the hospital or other health care facility where it will be used. They teach staff how to use the robot and may work with employees to integrate the new robot with existing robots and other technology.

Once the medical robot is in operation, technicians regularly perform preventive maintenance on it and conduct diagnostic tests to ensure it is working effectively. They check for worn-out parts (and replace them, when necessary) and perform software upgrades. They may program the robot to modify its movements or otherwise improve its capabilities. Technicians also perform safety checks on the robot and conduct risk assessments to identify any issues that may create safety hazards or negatively affect performance. They maintain records and write reports that summarize repairs, software upgrades, and other technology modifications.