Social robots in pediatric oncology: opinions of health care providers

Abstract Background: We aimed to describe the opinions of health care providers in pediatric oncology regarding social robots and to examine differences in their opinions based on their background characteristics. Methods: Health care providers working in pediatric oncology care were approached globally to participate online in a cross-sectional questionnaire study with multiple choice and open-ended questions. Open-ended questions were coded and collapsed into categories by two researchers independently. Frequencies were used to describe the answers. Differences in opinions were studied using logistic regression analyses. Results: Health care providers’ (n = 286) first thoughts about social robots were mostly positive (81.0%). They saw value in social robots (83.6%), mostly during hospitalization or procedures and when used for distraction. They were willing to use one (67.8%), but also expected difficulties (67.1%), mainly concerning technical errors. Psychosocial staff members less often saw value in social robots, more often expected difficulties and were less willing to use a social robot than other health care providers (Ps < .05). No other differences were found. Conclusions: Social robots may be a promising addition to pediatric oncology care, since health care providers were generally positive about this innovation. However, psychosocial staff members seemed more reluctant. Important potential barriers were defined that should be addressed upon implementation.