KOROR, Palau – Belau National Hospital, in partnership with Shin Kong Hospital in Taiwan, has launched the Taiwan-Palau Smart Hospital Project, an initiative using cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence to deliver cost-effective, real-time diagnostic services aimed at transforming healthcare in Palau.
The project was officially launched on January 16, 2025, in a ceremony attended by Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr., Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung, and members of Taiwan’s delegation, who were in Palau for the inauguration of its 12th government.
“These will help us deliver first-class healthcare in the islands,” said Whipps of the diagnostic systems donated by Taiwan. “These types of projects allow Palau to demonstrate to the Pacific what is possible.”
The initiative focuses on three key areas to address longstanding gaps in Palau’s healthcare system: diabetic retinopathy screening, a digital pathology platform, and a medical imaging integration system.
AI-Powered Diabetic Retinopathy Screening
Palau has a high prevalence of diabetes, yet lacks ophthalmologists to provide specialized eye care. Through this project, portable ophthalmoscopes will capture images of the retina, which will be analyzed using AI-assisted diagnostic software, VeriSee DR. The system generates detailed reports to help local doctors diagnose diabetic retinopathy faster and more accurately.
“These cutting-edge technologies will revolutionize healthcare in Palau,” Whipps said, emphasizing the potential to prevent vision loss and improve the quality of life for diabetic patients.
Digital Pathology Platform
For years, patients in Palau requiring pathological examinations faced the burdensome process of sending specimens overseas or traveling abroad, leading to delays and missed treatment opportunities. The digital pathology system introduced through the Smart Hospital Project allows pathologists in Taiwan to remotely review high-resolution slide images from Palau. This significantly reduces diagnostic times and ensures patients receive timely interventions.
Medical Imaging Integration System
In the past, patients referred to Taiwan had to manually carry CDs of medical images and paper records, a cumbersome process prone to inefficiencies. With the new system, patient data and medical images are securely shared between Palau and Taiwan through encrypted authorization, enabling seamless collaboration between medical teams.
A Strong Partnership in Healthcare
The Smart Hospital Project is the latest milestone in the decades-long partnership between Palau and Taiwan. “One of the cornerstones of the partnership has been healthcare,” Whipps said, highlighting Taiwan’s ongoing support in improving Palau’s medical services.
Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung, representing Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, underscored the importance of global cooperation in addressing health challenges. “Following the global pandemic, we have come to a clear understanding that diseases recognize no borders, and only through global cooperation can we achieve good health for all,” he said.
Lin also expressed Taiwan’s gratitude for Palau’s continued support of Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization.
A New Era of Healthcare for Palau
The Taiwan-Palau Smart Hospital Project demonstrates how technological innovation and international collaboration can bridge healthcare disparities in small island nations. By introducing AI-powered diagnostic tools and digital platforms, the initiative is set to enhance healthcare delivery, improve patient outcomes, and set an example for the Pacific region.
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