A prototype of a low-cost phototherapy light system (LPLS) was deployed by the Ateneo Innovation Center (AIC) at a public hospital in Metro Manila, Philippines. It underwent clinical investigation for two years under the supervision of licensed physicians in a public tertiary hospital.This paper presents the process of upgrading the LPLS in order to enhance capabilities and improve efficiency yet remain affordable. The following features were added: (1) a visual and auditory monitoring system in order to remotely oversee the infant from the nurse station; (2) an automation system that stores data about the device's light intensity and bulb temperature and records ambient humidity; (3) an alarm system that activates the warning lights if sensor readings are in critical level and if the bulbs need to be replaced; and (4) a time setting to manually set the time of operation and automatically turn-off the device as programmedThe upgrades increased the system's cost but it remained cheaper than the ones commercially available. For deployment in remote or off-grid hospitals, the system was equipped with a solar-powering provision.Index Terms-Phototherapy, neonatal jaundice, sensing and remote monitoring, irradiance and ambient temperature and humidity, neonatal care.
This discussion paper highlights some of the findings from an international workshop where researchers examined literature relating to universal healthcare in the Philippines. These findings included the complexity of the healthcare system, possible barriers experienced and service coverage, and are explored in relation to rehabilitation which may broaden debate and discussion in this area.Development of the Filipino healthcare system is outlined and the possible benefits of rehabilitation, including vocational rehabilitation, are examined especially in relation to work-related injuries and wheelchair use. There is a focus on understanding disability as a health, development and human rights issue and the possible benefits of rehabilitation to improve the quality of life for disabled people.Future research initiatives to confirm the number of people living with disability and the nature of their disability and information relating to the therapy workforce in the Philippines is recommended. This paper may inspire research also relating to the objective of securing universal healthcare in the Philippines with greater consideration of the needs of disabled people and the benefit of rehabilitation.
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