HCMC – Abbott has rolled out integrated mixed reality technology at blood donation events in Vietnam to help ease anxiety among donors and promote blood donations.
At a recent series of blood drives, donors wore transparent headsets that immersed them in a calming virtual experience while still allowing interaction with medical staff. The initiative, developed by Abbott in partnership with the U.S.-based Blood Centers of America, aims to reduce donor anxiety and encourage younger people to give blood.
The mixed reality experience offers two game options. Donors can choose to plant virtual seeds in a zen garden while listening to relaxing music or build a robot team to explore planets and solve puzzles.
Doan Thi Thanh Thuy, an Abbott Vietnam employee, said the technology helped her overcome nervousness during her first blood donation. “It felt like I was transported into a vibrant virtual world,” she added.
Huynh Chuc Phuong, a student at Saigon University, noted that this year’s experience differed from her previous donation. “The visuals and music helped take my mind off the process. It was over before I knew it,” she said.
Dr. Nguyen Thi Hong Trang from the Blood Transfusion Centre at Viet Duc Friendship Hospital described the initiative as a “refreshing and engaging” way to encourage first-time donors.
The mixed reality headsets are expected to be deployed at more blood donation centers in Hanoi and HCMC in the coming months.
The new technology initiative marks Abbott’s continued investment in healthcare innovation as the company celebrates its 30th year in Vietnam.
“We are committed to bringing our technology and innovations to Vietnam to support a healthier and stronger future,” said Douglas Kuo, divisional vice president and general manager of Abbott in Vietnam.
According to the National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Vietnam collected over 1.7 million blood units in 2024, 7.4 times more than in 2000. Voluntary donations accounted for 98% of total blood collected last year, up 30% points from four years ago.
