Dr. Joe Sucher of Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas and a surgical intensivist published a family survey in The American Journal of Surgery in December, 2011. Results revealed:

“Twenty-four patients and 26 family members completed the survey. Ninety-two percent of respondents were comfortable with the robot, and 84% believed communication was “easy.” Ninety percent did not perceive the robot as “annoying” and 92% did not believe that “the doctor cared less about them” because of the robot. Ninety-two percent of respondents supported the continued use of the robot.”

The study concluded that both patients and families looked upon telepresence as both positive and helpful in their treatment.