A team from Zhengzhou University (ZZU) won a gold medal at the 2025 China International College Students' Innovation Competition. They developed a high-fidelity, low-cost endoscopy training simulator designed to address the critical shortage of practical training resources for doctors in grassroots hospitals.
The project was driven by the pressing needs of grassroots medical practitioners, as noted by Zhang Jiyu, a doctoral student at ZZU. During his clinical training, Zhang observed the challenges faced by rural doctors, including limited training opportunities and inadequate practical experience, which often left them hesitant in treating early cancer cases.
The urgency of this issue is particularly pronounced in Henan, where 97 percent of medical institutions are community-based, yet there is a significant shortage of skilled endoscopy professionals.
The training device has undergone multiple iterations, evolving from a basic hard gastric model to a sophisticated soft-tissue upper gastrointestinal model. This progression has enhanced realism and reduced costs, making it accessible to grassroots healthcare providers.
The team also developed various training modules to support a comprehensive educational framework, ensuring that physicians meet clinical standards before treating patients.
The project's success lies in its commitment to grassroots needs and its innovative approach to medical training. By integrating advanced technology with practical application, the team has not only advanced medical education but also reinforced the importance of serving public health needs.
Looking ahead, the team plans to expand production, transfer patent technology, and develop new training products, continuing their mission to improve healthcare at the community level.
Group photo of the team from ZZU. [Photo/zzu.edu.cn]