ABSTRACT
In medicine, empathy is key to developing a successful patient-provider relationship and improving patient outcomes. Cinematic virtual reality (cine-VR) is a digital platform that increases understanding and empathy from the patient perspective. In early 2019, the GRID Lab partnered with the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine to create a twelve-part cine-VR series depicting the diabetes epidemic in southeastern Appalachian Ohio. Digital storytelling experts from the GRID Lab offered suggestions on how image composition, lighting, audio, and editing can engage viewers and convey ideas. Scriptwriters, directors, actors, and the art department gave insights on the power of worldbuilding through script development, nuanced performances, and production design to create meaningful experiences that transport viewers and open minds. A subset of providers and administrators participated in in-depth interviews about their experience with cine-VR.
