As part of its corporate social responsibility initiative dubbed ?Project Spark,? network equipment maker Cisco has announced its intention to donate Cisco HealthPresence solutions to the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) for a pilot program that will deliver healthcare services and help connect patients out of the Manila metropolis with doctors from the MPIC Hospital Group.
The telemedicine enabled by Cisco HealthPresence solutions combines network, mobile, cloud, and video technologies, and links medical providers with patients and colleagues in underserved communities.
Cisco intends to donate HealthPresence technologies, training and services support to PSF as part of the pilot program, which aims to support the Philippine government in transforming the healthcare delivery system.
Mario Luis Castaneda, country manager for Cisco in the Philippines, said the said the donation will deliver critical help and improve access to healthcare where it is needed most.
?It is more than just connecting the unconnected. It is about integrating healthcare services to address the challenges faced by the Philippines like accessibility and the cost-effectiveness of quality healthcare,? Castaneda said.
Esther Santos, president of PLDT-Smart Foundation, said the pilot-test is the first telehealth program in the Philippines and Asia-Pacific.
?The advantages of telecommunications should be shared with all to attain inclusive business and progress. Thanks to our partners, these benefits can likewise be experienced in delivering better health services,” she said.
