The ‘intravenous drip doll’ has a pumping mechanism offering easy, low-elevation use. Children can even hug the dolls while sleeping. (image: Seoul Metropolitan Government)
SEOUL, June 7 (Korea Bizwire) – Hospitals are often a child’s worst nightmare, but some recent developments might make them more inviting places.
A total of 14 teams participated in the Seoul City Health Care Make-A-Thon, which took place on May 21 to 22, where 70 contestants from 15-year-old students to doctors and nurses came up with fresh and original ideas to improve the current health care system.
The grand prize went to two inventions: Intravenous drips placed inside of dolls, and virtual reality (VR) equipment for children.
The ‘intravenous drip doll’ has a pumping mechanism offering easy, low-elevation use. Children can even hug the dolls while sleeping. The VR device is best suited for children’s diagnosis and treatment, and plays children’s cartoons of their favorite characters.
Second place went to a speed-limiting IV pole stand that prevents needles from accidentally falling out, and hospital room doors that only open after hands have been sanitized.
Third place went to a pillow that alters the head position of a patient when he or she snores, and privacy curtains that provide a more personal environment in multi-patient wards.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government and Seoul Medical Center are planning to develop the ideas by reaching out to investors and manufacturers. The prototypes will be displayed at the 2016 International Medical Industries Fair.
“We’ll continue our support to realize the ideas from the Make-A-Thon,” said Kim Min-gi, director of the Seoul Medical Center. “Our medical center will take on the role of a testbed operator.”
By Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
