Report AI Handwriting Tool Heralds New Era in Philippine Healthcare

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In a bid to revolutionise healthcare accessibility in the Philippines, a groundbreaking AI tool designed to analyse children's handwriting was showcased by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) at the Talakayang HeaRT Beat press conference on 27 May. Developed by the University of Santo Tomas, the tool, named i-SULAT (Intelligent Stroke Utilization, Learning, Assessment and Testing), utilises artificial intelligence to detect cognitive and neurological issues through analysing handwriting strokes.

 

The initiative, supported by the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), aims to provide consistent and automated assessments of handwriting proficiency, an essential indicator of neurological and cognitive health, particularly in regions with limited access to occupational therapy services.

 

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. emphasised the potential of scientific and technological advancements in paving the way for a healthier nation. With its design extending beyond early education, i-SULAT also supports stroke rehabilitation and the diagnosis of learning disabilities and neurological conditions, thus broadening its significance in communities lacking therapeutic resources.

 

Adding to the innovative momentum, the DOST also showcased the Immersive Gamification Technology Systems (ImGTS) project and the HealthPH Project during the event. The ImGTS project uses interactive digital environments to aid rehabilitation for children with cerebral palsy and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, while the HealthPH Project employs machine learning and natural language processing to monitor respiratory disease trends via social media analysis.

 

These innovations were publicly introduced as part of the DOST-PCHRD’s Digital and Frontier Technologies for Health (DFTH) Program. DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development, Dr. Leah J. Buendia, highlighted the critical role of technology in enhancing healthcare services, stating, "Science and technology are our keys to providing solutions that can create opportunities to improve and accelerate our health services."

 

With these projects, the DOST aims to embed science and technology into the country's health sector, ensuring that innovative health solutions are accessible, efficient, and capable of addressing national needs. Through i-SULAT and other initiatives, the government is demonstrating its commitment to integrating technological advancements with healthcare to build a healthier, more resilient Philippines.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-29