Video games have over the years been associated with negative impacts such as poor academic performance, violent, aggressive, and anti-social behavior, obesity, muscular disorders, and increased blood pressure. Recent research studies have, however, revealed that they can be harnessed to elicit a more positive response to treatment regimens among patients and facilitate the simulation of surgical and medical procedures (Kato 113). In fact, the use of video games in hospital environments dates back to the 1980s, but this fact has largely been overlooked by the media and other stakeholders, who have only focused on their demerits. These games have since evolved into scientifically proven treatments for various disease groups. The contribution of video games in the medical field should therefore not only be acknowledged but also encouraged to enhance treatment and surgical training.
Despite their negative reputation, doctors have historically embraced video games as a means of behaviorally engaging patients to improve their health outcomes. This has especially been the case for patients experiencing physical disabilities. The application of games in the medical field has seen the production of video games that are not only tailor-made to meet certain behavioral goals in health care but also for health education and training. Their use in enhancing treatment for patients is linked to their ability to increase motivation.
Even though the use of video games for training is a relatively new phenomenon compared to treatment, there have been notable advancements in the field. Medical training using video games has evolved from simple simulations to the use of computer-generated, three-dimensional interactive software, which has proved to be a viable replacement for mannequins and cadavers. A research study conducted by Rosser, Lynch,, and Cuddihy revealed that there is a positive correlation between game skills and laparoscopic surgical skills (181). The study involved a two-week cross-sectional analysis of the performance of thirty-three surgical residents and attending physicians in the Rosser Top Gun program.
