Philippine eHATID LGU Wins Bronze, Special Prize at SIIF

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The eHATID LGU, an innovative health information system developed under the Smarter and Integrated Local Health Information System (SMILHIS) project, garnered international recognition at the 2024 Seoul International Invention Fair (SIIF).

The project secured a Bronze Medal from the Korea Invention Promotion Association (KIPA) and a Special Prize for Best International Entry from the Malaysian Association of Research Scientists.

Held on Nov. 27-30, 2024, SIIF showcased over 500 inventions from 30 countries, highlighting groundbreaking science and technology solutions to societal challenges.

Designed to address healthcare challenges in underserved and remote communities, eHATID LGU functions as an offline-capable electronic medical records system, streamlining patient data management even in areas with unreliable internet connectivity.

“The goal has always been to address the practical difficulties encountered by healthcare workers in remote areas,” said Jaztine Calderon, developer of eHATID LGU. “Many rely on paper-based records that are prone to errors and delays. With eHATID LGU, data can be managed efficiently, even without an internet connection.”

The system operates on smartphones and tablets, allowing healthcare providers to update and access records seamlessly.

The eHATID LGU platform is complemented by the SMILHIS Local Health Information Exchange (LHIE), which securely integrates patient records across facilities to ensure continuity of care.

The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) provided critical funding and support, enabling the project to align with national health priorities and expand its reach.

“The involvement of government organizations like DOST-PCHRD provides Filipino innovators with the resources and opportunities needed to share their work on an international stage,” said Calderon.

DOST-PCHRD Executive Director Dr. Jaime C. Montoya praised the project, stating, “The eHATID LGU exemplifies how research and development and technological prowess can improve access to quality healthcare for Filipinos.”

Beyond healthcare, the eHATID LGU team plans to explore applications in disaster risk management and social welfare, envisioning a comprehensive platform to address diverse community needs.

Reflecting on the recognition, Calderon remarked, “The real indicator of success lies in creating solutions that respond with the needs of communities.”

Three other Filipino innovations were also awarded Bronze Medals at SIIF: the iPOND device for plating operations by Zalda R. Gayahan, Bamboo Textile Fiber Technology by Marie Antonette V. Berces, and DeBCC Cream for basal cell carcinoma treatment by Lorena B. Dela Cruz-Chiu.