I believe it. Parents can't be around all the time. Doctors and nurses are busy. Having someone stop by that just checks in is comforting, maybe a social worker or psychologist. I get that the robot seems dystopian, but it's sterile and can be moved out of the way in an emergency. It's probably more bias neutral. For example, I think I talk to people I find attractive differently than people I don't. Not on purpose, but I'd be even worse at managing that bias if I'm stuck in the hospital.

Being stuck in a hospital bed for a week or more sucks. Can't really focus on a book or reflex video game. There's only so much TV that's entertaining. Family is freaked out so you can't have real conversations.