From IIT, real doctors virtually yours

According to Prof S.K. Guha of the Department of Biomedical Engineering, IIT Delhi, special 8216;8216;preventive medicine8217;8217; booths will be installed. On entering these kiosks, a person8217;s identity will be established and he will be linked to the doctor manning the clinic. Guha was instrumental in drawing the curriculum.

Important parameters such as weight and blood pressure will be recorded and analysed by a trend analyser being developed by the IIT faculty. 8216;8216;This will give early indications of ill-health,8217;8217; said Guha.

Topping the list of scientists who brokered this medicine-technology marriage is Presidential candidate A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. He was approached by the IIT three years ago, said Guha, who along with four scientists will start the national institute in Kharagpur next month.

Bengal Health Secretary Asim Burman said the project, a joint venture of the IIT and the Bengal Government, will seek funds from external sources, mainly the World Bank.