AstraZeneca Philippines and Hi-Precision Diagnostics formalize their collaboration to advance digital and computational pathology in the Philippines. From left: Kaye Zamora, Sales Manager, Hi-Precision Diagnostics; Lotis Ramin, Country President, AstraZeneca Philippines; Vannessa Ongsue, Vice President for Medical Services, Hi-Precision Diagnostics; and Dr. Kriska Lim, Medical Affairs Head for Oncology, AstraZeneca Philippines.
AstraZeneca Philippines and Hi-Precision Diagnostics Center, Inc. have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance digital and computational pathology in the Philippines, aiming to strengthen cancer diagnostics through connected systems and artificial intelligence (AI).
The collaboration will begin with implementation at Hi-Precision Diagnostics, with the potential to support wider adoption across relevant healthcare settings.
Digital pathology converts tissue samples mounted on glass slides into high-resolution digital images that pathologists can review and share with specialists. Computational pathology uses validated software, including AI, to identify patterns that can support pathologists in making diagnostic assessments without replacing their clinical judgment.
These technologies could help Filipino patients, particularly those living far from specialist centers, gain better access to expert case reviews and second opinions. They may also improve laboratory workflows and provide care teams with timely diagnostic information to support precision medicine and treatment decisions.
Infrastructure, training and data governance
Under the MOU, AstraZeneca and Hi-Precision plan to modernize digital pathology infrastructure, optimize workflows, and improve interoperability between systems.
The partnership will also focus on clinical quality assurance, technology validation, workforce training, knowledge-sharing, and data governance. Remote consultations, collaborative case reviews, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement are also part of the planned initiatives.
“Every patient deserves timely, accurate diagnostics that can help guide the right care,” said Lotis Ramin, country president of AstraZeneca Philippines, emphasizing the role of science, technology, and local expertise in strengthening diagnostic services.
Vannessa Ongsue, vice president for medical services at Hi-Precision Diagnostics, said the collaboration would help strengthen the organization’s capabilities, standards, and systems to deliver dependable diagnostic services in an increasingly connected healthcare environment.
By developing the infrastructure, expertise, and governance required for digital pathology, the two organizations aim to establish a foundation for responsible technological innovation and more accessible, patient-centered cancer care in the Philippines.
Representatives from AstraZeneca Philippines and Hi-Precision Diagnostics sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance digital and computational pathology and strengthen diagnostic services for Filipino cancer patients.
