Exploring the Potential of the Metaverse in Healthcare: Emerging Opportunities and Challenges : A Review Alaa Alshorbaji Faculty of Information Technology (FIT) Applied Science Private University (ASU) Amman, Jordan Prof. Mahmoud Qutqut 202215031@students.asu.edu.jo January 2023 Abstract—The forthcoming period will bring about a profound shift that will have a wide-reaching effect on multiple facets of life. A new generation of modern technologies, a fresh concept of technology, and the most noteworthy aspect that will be affected by this transformation or technological revolution is the realm of social communication, which will be greatly impacted. Metaverse is a groundbreaking technology that promises to revolutionize the world through a novel method of communication, by transforming the media into a virtual world that replicates reality with all its physical concepts, as opposed to the existing world, which is virtual and imaginary. However, it is a world that mimics reality. This review paper seeks to discuss and summarize the predicted impacts of the metavirus on health in its various sectors, such as mental health, ophthalmology, vascular, dentistry and chronic conditions such as cancer. Its positive and negative implications will be discussed, and a glossary of terms will be provided to aid comprehension of this paper. Index Terms—Virtual Reality , Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality ,LifeLogging, Mirror World, Extended Reality, Metaverse, NFTs. I. I NTRODUCTION The widespread impact of the COVID-19 pandemic led to the widespread adoption of remote learning and increased use of social media platforms for various purposes, including remote consultations. This opened up a new realm of possibilities for people to embrace virtual solutions, allowing for seamless and convenient remote access to work, education, social interaction, and even medical appointments. With the advent of advanced technology, it is now possible to envision a three-dimensional virtual dimension that mimics reality with unparalleled accuracy and efficiency, accessible with a simple button press. This virtual world would provide an immersive and flexible experience, bridging the gap between fantasy and reality and revolutionizing various aspects of life through futuristic technology. [1] In this surveyed paper, we will summarize a collection of research papers that discuss the relationship between the metaverse and the healthcare sector. We will start by exploring the connection between the metaverse and mental health and explaining the hypothetical scenario and its relationship to the diagnosis and treatment of mental health. Then, we will discuss the expected benefits to mental health that can be derived from the use of the metaverse, as well as the negative impacts it can have on mental well-being due to overuse, ophthalmology, cardiology, hematology, dentistry, and chronic illnesses. Afterward, we will provide a comparison table that compares these sectors and their efficacy, feasibility, and drawbacks. Finally, we will present the challenges and limitations faced by the metaverse, such as cost, efficacy, and ease of use. The objective of this reference paper is to gain a better understanding of the concept of the metaverse and its relationship to the healthcare sector from different perspectives. II. BACKGROUND This section provides descriptions of the related topics of this paper, such as virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, lifelogging, mirror world, extended reality and metaverse. This is to facilitate a better understanding of the paper faster as these terms will be mentioned frequently. A. Virtual Reality (VR) Virtual reality is a cutting-edge technology that provides an immersive experience to users, allowing them to explore and interact with a three-dimensional environment.VR technology can simulate an environment in such a way that users feel as though they are part of the experience, providing an alternate reality from what is currently experienced in the real world. [2] In order to access the world of virtual reality, specialized glasses are required. These glasses feature a stereoscopic screen with specialized lenses containing motion tracking sensors. The combination of these components creates an illusion of being in a realistic environment, allowing users to interact with the environment in a way that suggests realism, using additional devices with motion sensors. [3] B. Augmented Reality (AR) Augmented reality is an emerging technology that enhances real-world environments with digital elements. This technology does not transfer a user to another reality, but rather enhances the user’s current reality with three-dimensional interfaces or animated three-dimensional objects. By using augmented reality glasses or lenses, or mobile devices with cameras, real and virtual graphics can be linked and displayed simultaneously. The use of Virtual Reality (VR) technology provides a psychologically immersive experience within a virtual environment, while Augmented Reality (AR) technology enables users to interact with virtual elements within the context of their real environment. [2] Augmented Reality (AR) offers numerous benefits, including the creation of a highly intelligent and connected environment through the utilization of location-based technologies and networks. [2] C. Mixed Reality (MR) This technology combines Virtual Reality (VR) with Augmented Reality (AR) to create an environment that blends virtual objects with real-world elements, allowing for real-time interaction. [3] The Mixed Reality (MR) technology is one of the latest advancements that combines digital objects with realism and allows for them to interact with each other. In order to use MR, a headset must be used, such as Microsoft’s HoloLens, which has a more powerful processor than those used in Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). This allows users to see digital objects in their environment and interact with them in various ways. [3] D. LifeLogging This is the process of tracking and recording one’s daily life activities with the use of devices such as Instagram, Facebook, and smart watches. These devices keep track of a variety of details about the user, including their heart rate, blood pressure, stress levels, and sleep patterns. The data collected is then stored and shared. [4] E. Mirror World Mirror World is a term used to describe the reflection of the external or real world, in an improved format for certain applications. This is achieved by structuring the real world into its virtual counterpart, making it more consistent and suitable for use in the digital space. Examples include Google Earth, Google Maps, and GPS technology. [4] F. Extended Reality (ER) Extended Reality (XR) is an umbrella term encompassing Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) technologies. XR provides an immersive experience for users to interact with virtual objects in a simulated environment. [5] G. Metaverse The term ”Metaverse” has been used for many years and was initially inspired by the 1992 science fiction novel ”Snow Crash” by author Neil Stevenson. This novel revolves around a virtual reality in which people interact with one another via avatars over the internet. [4] This world has been realized in various forms, such as Second Life, Fortnite, and VPChat. [5] The Metaverse is a network of technologies that simulate a three-dimensional, virtual world. It utilizes virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to create an environment where users can interact with one another in a manner analogous to real life. The interface is accessed via the Internet, providing a three-dimensional experience. [3] In 2021, Facebook announced that it was changing its name to Metaverse and subsequently broadcasted the brand. [6] H. Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are a unique form of digital property that can represent a variety of digital items such as characters, images, or any other item that can be obtained through the use of cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency is an encrypted digital currency which is extremely difficult to decrypt due to complex encryption methods and large processing times. NFTs can be purchased with cryptocurrency, with the most popular example being Bitcoin. NFTs rely on blockchain technology to provide secure digital data protection for each token without the use of a third party. [3] I. Metaverse in Medicine Metaverse in Medicine refers to the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) with medical practice, facilitated through the use of augmented reality (AR) glasses and virtual reality (VR) technology. The application of Metaverse in Medicine is achieved through the utilization of holographic construction, holographic simulation, virtual-real fusion, and virtual-real linkage. [7] J. Holographic construction The holographic structure is a complex network of interlinking layers that creates a three-dimensional representation of data. It serves as a cohesive system that aggregates information from various sources to provide a comprehensive model. [7] III. I MPLEMENTATION OF M ETAVERSE IN M EDICINE For effective implementation of metaverse in medicine, it is crucial to establish a coherent system that facilitates the comprehensive integration of its various components. This section endeavors to outline the fundamental principles that underlie the integration of metaverse in medicine, including holographic construction, holographic simulation, virtual-real fusion, and virtual-real linkage. [8] Page 2 of 7 A. Holographic construction The concept of metaverse in medicine aims to seamlessly integrate therapeutic and diagnostic benefits from the physical world into the virtual realm. To achieve this, it is essential to consider the human body’s response to various sensors that collect medical data and transmit it to the metaverse. This requires a comprehensive understanding of how to simulate the human body from both medical and diagnostic perspectives, as well as a seamless transfer of perception from physical reality to virtual reality. [7] B. Holographic simulation The concept of simulation is an advantageous one, as it facilitates efficient processing. Through applications such as Unity, three-dimensional models can be simulated prior to the construction process, which saves both time and energy. Moreover, the simulation process can identify any potential issues that may arise during implementation and construction, allowing us to proactively address and rectify them. [7] C. Fusion of virtual and real The evolution of meta medicine will aim to mirror the real world in meticulous detail within the virtual realm. As technology progresses, the physical, granular, and interactive elements of the virtual world will continually improve. Concurrently, it will be integrated with medical information systems, such as Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS). Utilizing real-time motion capture and multiple sensor device interaction, digital representations of patients and healthcare providers will offer instant and insightful feedback based on accurate data. [8] D. Virtual-real linkage This study aims to identify the disparities between the equipment and techniques utilized in traditional medicine and those employed in the virtual reality of the ”metaverse,” with respect to its relationship with medicine. The convergence of brain-computer interfaces, artificial intelligence, and robots, integrated with virtual reality, is expected to result in improved treatments and diagnoses. The ”metaverse” medicine is expected to differ from traditional medicine in three crucial aspects. [8] 1) Interaction of all things: Patients and physicians can access the digital realm through multiple forms of hardware and modify it instantaneously, with all aspects of the physical world being connected to the online world. [8] 2) Integration of virtual and real: Meta-medicine will strongly unify the virtual and material realms through economic, social, and identity networks allowing for mutual and enhanced comprehension in the three-dimensional environment of the tangible and intangible. [8] 3) Decentralization. : Blockchain technology could be utilized to certify, validate, and distribute rights, trade, utilize, and financially enable digital identities in virtual medical resources, and enable intelligent management of digital assets. Users, technology, and information form the three dimensions of the metaverse. In the context of meta-medicine, patients and doctors constitute the two main user groups. Every user will hold their own digital identity in the virtual world with the aid of digital twins. Patient data, imaging data and other features will form the digital avatars in the meta-medical world. Doctors and patients will connect through their respective avatars, abolishing time and space barriers. This will grant the digital world more freedom than the physical world, granting us more dimensional points of view, transforming the way of communication and interaction, and enabling us to reshape “reality” in the meta-medicine world. [8] IV. A PPLICATIONS FOR THE H EALTH S ECTOR IN THE M ETAVERSE This review will explore the use of health within the realm of metaphysics and its potential to contribute to advancements in the health sector with regards to various diseases. Although no applications have yet been implemented, some research has drawn on prior studies that discussed the potential benefits of augmented and virtual reality, both of which are integral components of metaviruses. Additionally, research has considered the evolving relationship between mental health and virtual reality, as well as how metaviruses can potentially impact diseases, such as those related to the eye, cancer, blood vessels, and beyond. A. Mental Health Considering the significance of mental health [3], there is currently no empirical evidence to suggest the efficacy of metaphysical approaches. However, virtual, augmented and mixed realities have provided valuable tools for diagnosis and treatment of certain mental illnesses. These technologies offer an effective way to diagnose illnesses which are often difficult to detect in physical reality due to their rarity. Moreover, virtual reality can also be used to accurately monitor psychological responses and reactions of patients, enabling more precise diagnosis and treatment. Another reason is the treatment of mental health issues in children. Virtual Reality (VR) can provide a fun and interactive environment to help draw in and engage the child, and can make it easier to treat certain diseases. 1. Mental disorders that benefited from virtual reality Research has demonstrated that virtual reality (VR) may be an effective treatment for certain mental health disorders. Studies have shown that VR can be beneficial in the treatment of anxiety, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and substance use disorders. We will discuss a range of disorders that have been shown to benefit from virtual reality (VR) technology in terms of treatment and diagnosis. Particular attention should be focused on diagnosis, as this is often one of the most challenging aspects of mental health, due to the potential for certain diseases to share similar symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis. 1.1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Following extensive experimentation, virtual reality Page 3 of 7 1.2. 1.3. 1.4. 1.5. 1.6. has been employed to treat and diagnose a disease affecting children, resulting in increased movement and reduced concentration and distraction. Through the use of three-dimensional interfaces, which allow the child to interact with and respond to them more effectively than a traditional interview, treatment and diagnosis have been successfully demonstrated. The 3D graphics have proven effective in arousing the child’s curiosity and capturing their attention. Eating Disorders Eating disorders can have a detrimental effect on an individual’s physical health. Psychological conditions often underlie the development of these disorders, leading to difficulties in eating. To address this, virtual reality has been employed as a form of treatment, providing visual stimuli in the form of three-dimensional shapes and colors that stimulate the craving for food. This approach has been successful in helping many individuals overcome their eating disorders. Anxiety, Phobias Stress Disorders Anxiety, stress, and phobias are characterized by an intense fear of engaging with the external environment. This can create a sense of dread for those affected, as they struggle to cope with people and situations in their vicinity. Virtual reality has been used to treat these conditions, as it provides a virtual platform for communication with others. This reduces the level of anxiety associated with social interaction. Furthermore, virtual reality has also been used to treat phobias, by providing virtual simulations of the feared situations. This helps to break down psychological barriers and ultimately diminish the fear experienced by sufferers. Post-Traumatic Stress Post-traumatic stress is a psychological condition which affects individuals who have been subjected to traumatic events. It can lead to psychological difficulties, including suicidal thoughts and depression. This is especially common among soldiers due to the numerous traumas they are exposed to, such as the loss of comrades and witnessing death. Virtual reality has been successful in alleviating symptoms of posttraumatic stress through the ”Bravemind” process, and has resulted in a decrease in suicides and depressive episodes. Veterans Affairs hospitals have also employed virtual reality as a treatment for this condition. Autism Autism is a prevalent condition, particularly in childhood, and it can be challenging to manage. Recent studies conducted by the University of Texas have demonstrated that utilizing virtual reality can improve concentration and enhance cognitive abilities among individuals with autism. Alzheimers Disease Alzheimer’s disease is a serious condition that commonly affects the elderly, with high prevalence. Patients often experience depression due to their impaired sense of identity and feeling of alienation from their family members, which can be detrimental to their wellbeing. Quickly retrieving their identity through short-term memory aids may help improve their situation. 1.7. Stress and Pain Management It is well-established that virtual reality environments can be remarkably beneficial for those afflicted with psychological stress and depression. Studies have demonstrated that treatment utilizing virtual reality is more effective than traditional therapy in many cases. The virtual reality environment provides an alternative to the real world, creating a more calming and comfortable atmosphere for the person experiencing it. The author discussed the potential benefits of virtual reality for mental health before delving into the metaverse, which is the foundation of their research. They presented future prospects for mental health through examining the pros and cons of virtual reality as well as the potential adverse effects that metaverses may have on psychological health. 2. The benefits of Metaverse in mental health 2.1. Group therapy sessions Metaverse has created a unique space that facilitates group therapy sessions, which have been widely recognized as a successful tool to combat social isolation. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased feelings of loneliness and anxiety, particularly among the elderly population, who are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of isolation. Group therapy sessions provide an outlet for those affected to receive support and guidance in overcoming their feelings of isolation. There are a range of diseases, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress disorder, where metaphors can help to reduce the effects of the illness. Such conditions can lead to feelings of social exclusion, loneliness and isolation, so therapeutic group sessions can be beneficial in providing support. These sessions provide benefit to another group, such as pregnant women who can exchange experiences and those affected by postpartum depression who can share their thoughts and experiences with those who have gone through similar situations. 2.2. Practicing yoga, meditation and virtual travel We must acknowledge the financial hardships faced by certain groups of people, including the elderly and those with special needs such as paralysis, muscular dystrophy and mobility impairments. Traveling and accessing places to relax and meditate can be a great challenge for these individuals. The emergence of the metaverse provides them with a virtual way to experience magic from all parts of the world and Page 4 of 7 to practice meditation with flexibility. This will have a positive impact on their psychological well-being, helping reduce depression, hatred and envy. 2.3. Virtual mental health clinics Many countries host numerous psychiatric clinics, yet access to them can be hindered by cultural stigmas, which view seeking mental health services as shameful and damaging to one’s social standing. Virtual clinics offer a confidential environment that enables individuals suffering from mental illness or who have been subjected to traumatic experiences such as intimidation, sexual assault, or violence to speak openly without fear. Metaverse is one such virtual clinic provider that offers this service. 3. Negative effects of metaphysics on mental health In recent years, the overuse of social networking sites and smartphones, including numerous games and applications, has been linked to a decrease in the effective memory responsible for the development or growth of essential skills in humans. This has resulted in an increase in cases of depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, hyperactivity disorder, lack of concentration. While it is not possible to completely limit the use of phones due to their benefits for work, study and daily life, it is important to maintain a balance. Recent advancements in technology have led to the emergence of new psychological challenges, such as the comparison of life between individuals and striving for an ideal lifestyle on social media platforms, as well as the lack of credibility and competition to reach an unrealistic standard of beauty through the use of digital filters. This idealism can pose a serious threat to one’s mental health and distort their perception of reality. Entering the virtual world often entails selecting a digital avatar that reflects one’s true identity. Unfortunately, this has become an obsession for many; with people focusing on the avatar’s aesthetic, ideals, outfit, and how far it is from or close to reality. Significant amounts of money can be spent in pursuit of this, and it has been identified as a condition known as the Proteus effect. Recently, a phenomenon known as ”Fear of Missing Out” (FOMO) has gained traction. FOMO is the anxiety associated with not being aware of events or news as quickly as others. This can lead to feelings of depression, as one may feel they are falling behind and must constantly strive to stay informed. According to a recent study, FOMO is linked to psychological disorders and can have an impact on sleep, eating, communication and social media habits. Individuals with FOMO often experience anxiety and stress. B. Cancer Care The exploration of the relationship between metaviruses and health is a pertinent subject, particularly due to the varying approaches that have been developed in utilizing metaviruses for the benefit of health care delivery, including diagnosis of illnesses, surgical treatments, patient monitoring, health maintenance, hospital and pharmacy management. [6] Regarding cancer, the potential applications of metavirus include surgical treatment and rehabilitation. Johns Hopkins University surgeons recently utilized ”augmedix” headphones to successfully remove a cancerous tumor from the spine during a surgery. The augmented reality device enabled an anatomical view of the patient’s bones and tissues before the procedure began, while also providing equalized images under x-rays and allowing for control of certain tools. This pioneering medical technology has been deemed a major revolution in modern surgery. [6] Metaverse is expected to develop support for three-dimensional distortion and reality simulations for consultations between doctors during or prior to surgery, with the most beneficial outcome for cancer patients being psychological group therapy sessions to share experiences and coping strategies among those of the same condition. [6] C. Cardiovascula We observed the final stage of a suite of technological tools that enabled the general public to monitor their illness or health status, such as blood pressure, heart rate and blood vessels. These devices included smart watches, smart glasses and smart scales. The most recent development was the introduction of smart rings, which track a patient’s condition and provide information in a timely and accurate manner. This tracking process will be significantly enhanced with the implementation of Metaverse technology. It will provide faster and more accurate data, as well as a flexible and three-dimensional interface. This will enable the user to gain a better understanding of their health condition and be able to track it in a more realistic way. Moreover, faster information flow will make the user more aware and vigilant of their health system, which can be linked to their doctor in case of emergency. This allows them to visit the doctor quickly and view their analysis first-hand. On the other hand, the participation of doctors from around the world in critical cases or before performing complex heart operations is a remarkable development. This saves time, effort and money, while also helping doctors with three-dimensional interfaces that display the patient’s heart. This allows them to locate the operation before starting it, or perform a virtual operation and see the results before returning to the patient. Dr. Ben Zinan, an American expert in virtual reality at CedarsSinai Hospital in Los Angeles, demonstrated the medical applications of virtual reality at a recent presentation. He interacted with a set of slides using a virtual reality headset, offering audiences an impressive glimpse into the potential of virtual reality in medicine. [9] D. Eye Care The main entrance to the Metaverse World is through Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) glasses. Ophthalmology plays an important role in providing access to this virtual world, as it enables the utilization of its functions. Retinitis pigmentosa is a degenerative disease that affects the retina, resulting in a progressive loss of peripheral vision. Low lighting can make it difficult to distinguish objects, and Page 5 of 7 there is no medical remedy, such as glasses or lenses, to prevent its progression. This condition can have a detrimental effect on daily life, leaving the patient with limited vision in dimly lit environments. Augmented reality technology was utilized to treat this illness, providing the patient with glasses that utilize object detection and convert the identified objects into light colors, allowing them to distinguish between them without leaving their current reality. Virtual reality glasses have been found to be effective in accurately diagnosing vision impairment. Compared to a traditional examination, virtual reality provides a simulated environment which more closely replicates the realities of a patient’s daily life, leading to a more accurate diagnosis. [10] D. Effective E. dentist In this section, we will determine the feasibility of the author’s proposed relationship between the metaverse and the healthcare sector discussed in his research paper in actual implementation or if it is considered to be a far-fetched concept. Dentistry has been utilizing augmented and virtual reality technologies for a variety of procedures such as dental restoration, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and orthodontics. Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, most teaching shifted to remote learning. University institutions have been particularly successful in their implementation of virtual reality teaching methods for dental students. Virtual reality has been found to be more effective than traditional methods such as pictures in explaining teeth structure due to its three and two-dimensional visualizations. It also allows students to interact with interfaces in virtual laboratories, thus reducing the difficulty of understanding and providing access to real laboratories that may be difficult to access. Medical faculties have implemented the use of ”haptic” technology, which has been found to be an effective means of educating students in oral health. The use of virtual reality has also made the process of dental implants easier, as it displays the mouth and bones in a three-dimensional form. As a result, the doctor is able to review the procedure before beginning, which can significantly increase its success rate and provide reassurance to the patient. [11] V. C OMPARISON TABLE In this section, I will present a comparison table between all surveyed papers, in which the following information will be displayed: A. Author The name of the author will be displayed alongside each reviewed research paper. B. Healthcare In this field, we will examine the type of health sector discussed in the literature and its potential relationship to the metaverse. C. Applied In this domain, we will assess the extent to which the healthcare industry has incorporated advancements in technology closely related to the metaverse, such as virtual and augmented reality. In this section, we will determine, based on the author’s perspective, whether the healthcare sector has effectively leveraged the metaverse or not. E. Negative Effect In this section, we will assess whether the metaverse has had a negative impact on the healthcare sector, which the author has discussed in his paper. F. Applicable Table I C OMPARISON TABLE Author Usmani et al Benet et al Zeng et al B. Mesko Afrashtehfar et al Healthcare Applied Effective Negative Effect Applicable Mental Health yes yes yes yes Eye Care Cancer Care Cardiovascula no no yes yes yes yes yes no no yes no yes dentist yes yes nothing yes VI. M ETAVERSE CHALLENGES AND LIMITATIONS The Metaverse presents a multitude of challenges due to its expansive concept, intricate implementation, and the need for multiple technologies in order to interconnect the global populace. A. Lack of evidence The potential applications of virtual reality for mental health have yet to be fully explored, as the efficacy of such treatments has yet to be proven at a high rate. Furthermore, there is a lack of evidence confirming the degree of improvement, and no follow-up studies have been conducted to track the progress of participants following their virtual reality experiences. [3] B. Cost Owning equipment for the Metaverse technology can be a challenge due to its high cost. This limits the number of users, which in turn hinders the success of this technology in achieving its primary objective of connecting people around the world in a virtual environment. This is a major hurdle that must be overcome. [9] Page 6 of 7 C. Weakness of feelings The doctor’s lack of psychological empathy with the patient, especially in serious diseases such as cancer, can impede the patient’s recovery. Patient mental health is critical for successful treatment outcomes and can be nurtured by motivating and encouraging the doctor to be patient and supportive. However, psychological empathy may be lacking in some cases, posing an obstacle to the treatment of chronic illnesses. [6] D. Technical challenges The manufacturing of metaverse technology is a complex and expensive process which is further hindered by technical challenges. Additionally, the large size of the technology makes it difficult to use with virtual reality glasses, which can weigh up to 500 grams. Having to place this weight on one’s head for an extended period of time can be uncomfortable and inefficient. Therefore, it is essential to develop equipment that is flexible, comfortable and easy to use, presenting a great challenge for manufacturers. [9] E. Information Security R EFERENCES [1] M. Marzaleh, M. Ahmadi, M. Peyravi, and F. Shaygani, ”A revolution in health: Opportunities and challenges of the Metaverse.” Excli Journal, vol. 2, pp. 791-792, May 2022. [2] B. Kye, N Han, E Kim, Y Park, and S Jo, ”Educational applications of metaverse: possibilities and limitations.” Journal of educational evaluation for health professions, vol. 13, pp. 1-5, December 2021. [3] SS. Usmani, M. Sharath, and M. Mehendale. ”Future of mental health in the metaverse.” General Psychiatry,vol. 6, pp. 1-4, June 2022. [4] L. Petrigna, and G Musumeci. ”The metaverse: A new challenge for the healthcare system: A scoping review.” Journal of functional morphology and kinesiology, vol. 12, pp 1-7, August 2022 . [5] A. Plechatá, G. Makransky, and R. Böhm. ”Can extended reality in the metaverse revolutionise health communication?.” NPJ digital medicine, vol. 4, pp 1-3, September 2022. [6] Y.Zeng, L. Zeng, C. Zhang, and A. Cheng. ”The metaverse in cancer care: Applications and challenges.” Asia-Pacific Journal of Oncology Nursing, VOL. 2,PP. 1-2, September 2022. [7] D. Yang, J. Zhou, Y. Song, M. Sun, and C. Bai. ”Metaverse in medicine.” Clinical eHealth, vol.5, pp. 1-4, 2022. [8] M. Sun, L. Xie, Y. Liu, K. Li, B. Jiang, Y. Lu, Y. Yang et al. ”The metaverse in current digital medicine.” Clinical eHealth, vol. 6, pp. 1-4, May 2022. [9] B. Mesko, ”The promise of the metaverse in cardiovascular health.” European Heart Journal, vol. 3, pp. 1-3, 2022 . [10] D. Benet, and J. Pellicer-Valero. ”Metaverse in Ophthalmology: The Convergence of Virtual and Physical Space in Eye Care.” Digital Medicine and Health, vol. 12,pp. 1-9, Nov 2022. [11] KI. Afrashtehfar, and A. SH Abu-Fanas. ”Metaverse, crypto, and NFTs in dentistry.” Education Sciences, vol. 3,pp. 1-3, 2022. The security and privacy of financial data are paramount when discussing metaverse technology. Exchange of this sensitive information must be done in a secure manner to ensure the safety and integrity of users’ data. Appropriate measures should be taken to protect and safeguard financial data, such as encryption, authentication, authorization, and access control. Furthermore, it is important to consider the legal implications of data sharing and transfer when utilizing metaverse technology. [6] VII. C ONCLUSION Given the research exploring the concept of metaverse, its relationship to health, and its potential pros and cons, it is clear that the metaverse will have a considerable impact on the world of health, particularly in the field of mental health. Communication is the bedrock of mental health, and the metaverse provides an ideal platform for this. However, it also carries potential risks. Social media applications have demonstrated the effects of virtual reality seclusion from the real world, and it is feared that these effects could manifest in other areas, such as chronic diseases and ophthalmology. To ensure reliable and user-friendly technology, there is a need for both ease-of-use and effectiveness. The more complicated the technology, the more tools and resources required, consequently driving up prices. Fortunately, companies are actively working towards this goal, and it is anticipated that effective results will emerge in the near future. ACKNOWLEDGMENT This research was enabled by the generous support of the Applied Science Private University in Amman, Jordan. Page 7 of 7