Drones in Healthcare

Abstract

This chapter discusses the use of drones in healthcare with a specific focus on humanitarian logistics. Drones have already been used in healthcare in different aspects, including transfer of blood products, search and rescue missions, or collecting different types of data including aerial photographs, air quality, or radiation levels. Even though the published research evidence in the area of “drones in healthcare” is almost 1% of the broader area of “drones,” the progress in public acceptance, regulations, as well as technology is undeniable. This chapter summarizes the different aspects regarding the use of drones in healthcare, while specifically focusing on humanitarian logistics. The SWOT analysis indicate that the strengths and opportunities weigh more than the weaknesses and threats, suggesting that drones will revolutionize the way medical supplies are delivered within the coming years.