UP med school develops 'telepresence computers' that let COVID-19 patients speak to loved ones

The University of the Philippines College of Medicine is easing the loneliness of isolated patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

On its Facebook page, the institution shared that its Surgical Innovations and Biotechnology Laboratory has developed "telepresence computers" that will allow COVID-19 patients at the Philippine General Hospital speak to their loved ones and families.

"This same telepresence system may also be used by the doctors and nurses to monitor and communicate with the patients, lessening exposure of the HCW," it added.

The project was a collaborative effort between experts from UP Manila and UP Diliman, it said.

Meanwhile, the computers were donated by alumni from Xavier School.

PGH has earlier launched "Tele-Kumusta," an app that also lets COVID-19 patients connect with their families. The hospital currently has four laptops for the initiative.

However, the service is only offered to COVID-19 patients with mild to moderate symptoms.

A total of 97 COVID-19 patients are currently admitted to the PGH, while the hospital has reported 20 deaths and 16 recoveries.

PGH is among the first healthcare facilities in the country to be designated as a COVID-19 hospital.

—JCB, GMA News