Global medical innovations and AI-driven solutions in the spotlight

Medical Taiwan 2024 drew 280 exhibitors from 10 countries, boosting tech integration in healthcare.

IMAGINE a hospital where AI systems can analyse a patient’s symptoms based on facial expressions, tone of voice, and physiological data and then identify potential illnesses. At Medical Taiwan 2024, the spotlight was on “Smart Healthcare,” showcasing technological innovations and solutions that depict a future where these are all possible.

The seamless integration of technology and healthcare is today’s great aspiration.

For example, medical imaging enhanced by AI can automatically highlight abnormalities, aiding doctors in diagnosis. Surgeons may operate remotely using intelligent robotic systems with precision and dexterity.

For Taiwan Vice President Mei-Chin Hsiao, these examples are not of the distant future but of imminent reality. “We are on the brink of a revolution in healthcare, where AI and technology will redefine how we diagnose, treat, and care for patients,” she told the medical expo held 20-22 June at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 2.

Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, lauded Taiwan as a backbone of AI innovation, a sentiment that resonates strongly within the medical field. “AI is not just a tool; it is an intelligent partner that will enhance medical efficiency and accuracy” Huang said.

The tech boss said that in places like Taiwan, AI is already enhancing the efficiency and quality of healthcare, simplifying administrative tasks, and improving the accuracy of diagnostics and treatments.

The advent of generative AI marks a significant milestone in human history, emerging as a co-creator and intelligent partner, pivotal in driving medical innovation and new business models.

From care to prevention

The global issue of an aging population necessitates a shift from simple medical care to a comprehensive health system encompassing prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Digital technology plays a crucial role in this transformation, according to Jing-Yi Lin, Taiwan’s deputy minister of Health and Welfare. “The integration of digital health technologies is vital in creating a sustainable and efficient healthcare system for our aging population,” said Lin.

Through the widespread application of the internet of things (IoT), big data, and AI, early disease warning systems, precise treatments, and effective health management for the elderly are becoming achievable.

This year’s Medical Taiwan show aims to illustrate a holistic health and medical system in the context of an aging society through innovative digital health and care technologies.

Beyond healthcare

Organised by TAITRA, the medical, health, care and technology exhibition at TaiNex 2 attracted 280 exhibitors from 10 countries, filling up a total of 460 booths.

Under the theme, “Beyond Healthcare!” and focusing on All-Age Healthcare, Smart Medical, and Supply Chain Gallery, the event showcased Taiwan’s medical innovations, including smart hospitals and home care.

The M-novator Startup Area featured biomedical startups, pitch sessions, and networking opportunities. Key events included a gala dinner, procurement meetings, and the Asia and Central and Eastern Europe Medical Trends Forum.

With 4,060 pre-registered visitors, including 786 international attendees from 50 countries, the event highlighted its global appeal and commitment to healthcare innovation.

Medical Taiwan serves as a collaborative platform, bringing together industry leaders and integrating upstream and downstream partners of the medical equipment industry. The event also encourages cross-disciplinary cooperation, showcasing the strength of Taiwan’s medical technology sector. Chih-Ching Yang, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, remarked, "Collaboration and innovation are key to advancing our medical technology industry and ensuring global competitiveness."

The M-novator zone, dedicated to startups, injects energy and vitality into the industry, fostering innovative applications and best practices ready for market implementation. Additionally, over a hundred procurement meetings and activities during the exhibition facilitate international connections and exchanges, driving global engagement for Taiwanese businesses.

In the midst of AI-led industrial transformation, Medical Taiwan 2024 bears witness to the evolution of healthcare into a smarter, more digital, and patient-centred journey. It also showcased the invaluable participation and support of healthcare professionals, businesses, associations, and government agencies.

In concluding her speech at the event, Hsiao assured: “We are committed to advancing healthcare through innovation, ensuring that it meets and exceeds the needs of our society.”

“Together, we move towards a future where smart healthcare not only meets but exceeds the needs of society,” she added.