Nikonomics - The Economics of Small Business

267 - Best of 2025! How Robots Are Saving America's Nursing Crisis with Matthew Chang

Jan 6, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Matthew Chang, the founder and CEO of Chang Robotics, shares his expertise in automating healthcare and manufacturing. He reveals how $200K hospital robots can deliver supplies in 90 seconds, significantly freeing up nurses’ time. Matthew also highlights the groundbreaking development of America’s first driverless bus system and discusses innovative initiatives like FAA-compliant electric vehicles. With a focus on customer-funded innovation, he outlines how his robotics projects enhance worker safety and efficiency across industries.
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ADVICE

Cost, ROI, And Nurse Impact

  • Budget about $200K installed per hospital robot with full setup and training.
  • Expect ~14 nurses per robot and ~15% time savings, yielding ~18–20 month ROI.
ANECDOTE

KiwiBot Delivers Joy And Supplies

  • Matthew describes KiwiBot as a campus point-to-point robot that delights patients and staff.
  • The cute interface boosts patient experience while delivering urgent items like meals.
INSIGHT

Design Autonomous Beds As Power-Assist

  • Autonomous beds can reduce injuries by power-assisting nurses instead of replacing them.
  • Design beds to be escorted and to disengage when nurse control is required for safety.
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