GIFT MD+PhD Program Cohort Visits Shanghai Children's Medical Center to Explore Smart Healthcare Technology

On October 24, 2026, students from the Pilot Class for Exceptional Talents (MD+PhD Program) at the Global Institute of Future Technology (GIFT), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, visited the Shanghai Children's Medical Center affiliated with SJTU School of Medicine to explore cutting-edge medical technologies and practical pathways for medical-engineering integration. The activity featured themed lectures, a debate session, and hands-on device experiences.

Virtual Reality in Medicine

Dr. Liu Jinlong demonstrated how VR technology transformed anatomical structures and clinical procedures into intuitive 3D models. Students gained a deeper understanding of the VR applications in medical training, surgical simulation and preoperative planning.

Intelligent Auscultation Technology

Dr. Shi Guocheng introduced the development and application of intelligent auscultation technology. By collecting and uploading heart sound audio and spectrograms for remote consultation and AI-assisted analysis, the technology helps detect congenital heart disease at an early stage. Students therefore realized the necessity to advance medical technology innovation while meeting public needs for medical care.

AI vs. Physician Judgment Debate

Guided by Dr. Du Jun, Chief Physician and Vice President of Shanghai Children's Medical Center, students debated the application boundaries of AI-assisted diagnosis. From different perspectives such as AI technology advancement, clinical experience, individual patient's needs, and professional responsibility, students discussed and explored how physicians could make prudent judgments with technological support.

Hands-on Device Experience

A staff representative, Shu Biao, from the MicroPort Group demonstrated the operations of intelligent medical equipment, including laparoscopic surgical robots and orthopedic navigation devices. Students observed and learned the principles of delicate robot-assisted operations and how the navigation equipment achieved precise positioning during preoperative planning. This experience helped students further realize the importance of continuous collaboration between clinicians and engineers in driving medical innovation.

The practical activities deepened students' understanding of smart healthcare technology and medical-engineering integration, providing valuable experience for future interdisciplinary learning.