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DOST features AI tool to detect early signs of neurological disorders
DOST features AI tool to detect early signs of neurological disorders
By Jel Santos
A software tool that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze children’s handwriting for signs of cognitive and neurological issues was among the digital health innovations recently showcased by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to improve healthcare accessibility in the Philippines.
During the Talakayang HeaRT Beat press conference on May 27, the DOST, through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), featured i-SULAT (Intelligent Stroke Utilization, Learning, Assessment and Testing), a software developed by the University of Santo Tomas (UST).
The tool analyzes handwriting strokes to provide consistent and automated assessments of handwriting proficiency, an important developmental milestone tied to cognitive and neurological health.
“Through science, technology, and innovation, we are laying the groundwork for a healthier Philippines,” DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr said in a statement.
The DOST said i-SULAT is particularly helpful in areas with limited access to occupational therapy services.
It is designed not only for early education but also for stroke rehabilitation, learning disabilities, and diagnosis of neurological conditions, the agency added.
Per the DOST, i-SULAT offers standardized and accessible handwriting assessments, making it especially useful in communities where occupational therapy services are scarce.
“Beyond early education, its applications extend to stroke rehabilitation, learning disabilities, and the diagnosis of neurological disorders,” it stated.
DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr. Leah J. Buendia underscored the broader value of tech-driven healthcare solutions.
“Agham at teknolohiya ang ating susi upang magbigay solusyon na maaaring magbigay ng pagkakataon para mas mapabuti at mapabilis ang ating mga serbisyong pangkalusugan (Science and technology are our keys to providing solutions that can create opportunities to improve and accelerate our health services),” she said.
Aside from i-SULAT, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) also showcased the Immersive Gamification Technology Systems (ImGTS) project during the Talakayang HeaRT Beat forum. This initiative uses interactive digital environments to support rehabilitation for children with cerebral palsy and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease experiencing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
The ImGTS project is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials and is being evaluated for safety, usability, and overall therapeutic effectiveness. By gamifying therapy, the project aims to make rehabilitation more engaging for patients while providing meaningful support to caregivers and medical professionals involved in long-term treatment.
Another innovation presented was the HealthPH Project by the National University of Manila. This system uses machine learning and natural language processing to monitor respiratory disease trends by analyzing social media content in English, Filipino, and Cebuano. It allows for real-time surveillance of potential outbreaks and helps local government units across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao respond more proactively to public health threats.
The technologies were developed under DOST-PCHRD’s Digital and Frontier Technologies for Health (DFTH) Program. They were officially introduced to the public during the Talakayang HeaRT Beat event in Quezon City as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to integrate science and innovation into national health strategies.