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Japanese elderly specialist centre adopts Korean brain imaging AI
The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology in Japan has implemented an AI-powered brain MRI analysis software by the South Korean company Neurophet.
Based on a media release, the institute will use the software to perform rapid quantitative analysis of brain MRIs to support the diagnosis of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.
Neurophet said its supply deal with the institute marks the start of its full-scale entry into Japan. Its AI solutions for analysing MRI and PET scans have been registered with the Japan Radiological Society.
Online licensing system for Indonesian healthcare workers launched
Indonesia has introduced a digital platform to streamline the licensing of healthcare professionals.
According to Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin, the online system on the National Digital Public Service Mall (MPPDN) automates licensing to make the process faster, transparent, and traceable. Applications now require only a registration letter and proof of training, with licenses issued in up to five days.
The initiative is supported by multiple government bodies, including the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs and the National Cyber and Crypto Agency. It will ensure nationwide service continuity and curb illegal licensing practices.
Survey: Malaysians open to AI in cancer care but screening rates remain low
Many Malaysians are reportedly open to the use of AI in cancer care, according to a survey commissioned by Siemens Healthineers.
Nearly half of respondents from Malaysia saw AI as promising in cancer diagnosis and treatment, provided it is transparent, clinician-led, and supported by strong data safeguards.
The survey, conducted by YouGov across six Southeast Asian countries, also revealed that while awareness of early detection is high among Malaysian respondents (79%), only a quarter had ever undergone cancer screening, with only 7% taking specific tests. Main barriers cited were concerns about cost, fear of diagnosis, and a belief that screening is unnecessary.
While they knew that access to cancer therapies is generally accessible, more than half of the respondents said treatment is unaffordable.
Additionally, survey findings noted that almost half of respondents from Malaysia would feel more confident if services were delivered through integrated one-stop models.
Wonkwang University Hospital ties up with Philips
Wonkwang University Hospital in Jeonbuk, a province in southwest South Korea, is establishing a smart hospital model with Philips Korea.
They recently signed a memorandum of understanding to introduce a vendor-neutral data platform and AI technologies to improve clinical workflows, operational efficiency, and patient-centred care.
Philips will also support the university hospital in securing overseas collaborations.
