Due to the absence of major companies, the atmosphere at CES 2022 is said to lack the usual excitement. However, there are still spaces where you can feel a sense of 'energy,' such as Eureka Park within The Venetian Expo. Startups from around the world are showcasing new technologies.

Among them, there are some notable companies. One of these is Hippo T&C. At first glance, with its VR (virtual reality) device Oculus and content displayed on monitors, it might seem like an ordinary VR content company. But a closer look at the booth reveals that it is filled with medical-related elements.

Hippo T&C is a digital therapeutics startup based in South Korea. Digital therapeutics—a concept that might seem unfamiliar—refers to "using software to derive scientific evidence and help in the treatment of diseases," according to Hippo T&C. The goal is to assist in accurate diagnosis by medical professionals.

What Hippo T&C unveiled at CES 2022 is 'AttnKare,' software that diagnoses ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) using VR content. After wearing the Oculus VR device and engaging with three VR content scenarios, users receive a 'diagnostic report' divided into five assessment elements. Users can read this report to check their condition.

Founded in 2020, Hippo T&C is led by Professor Tai-Myoung Chung from the Department of Software Engineering at Sungkyunkwan University. The decision to start the company came from the long time it takes to receive a prescription and the need for simple diagnostic tools in daily life.

Having had limited knowledge in medicine, Hippo T&C has received significant support from psychiatrists. When they first approached doctors with the idea of creating such a tool, the doctors were very pleased. Diagnosing ADHD requires feedback from both guardians and the individual, and information obtained through conversations can sometimes lack objectivity. Currently, Hippo T&C is collaborating with Bundang Seoul National University Hospital, Samsung Seoul Hospital, and Boramae Hospital.

One question that arises is what criteria are used to assess a user's risk of ADHD. Hippo T&C responded that they use standardized international assessment scales to ensure objectivity. The diagnostic report is created using the ADHD-RS (ADHD-Rating Scale) combined with advice from medical professionals.

Hippo T&C plans to expand its scope beyond mental disorders like ADHD and depression to include physical conditions. They are also considering international expansion. With a team of about 18 people, including external supporters, Hippo T&C is hopeful about establishing the concept of 'digital therapeutics' in the medical field.

Source : https://www.bloter.net/newsView/blt202201070004

This article is a translation of a Korean original into English.

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