Pete Hodgson, the Research, Science and Technology minister of New Zealand was excited when he had his blood pressure measured by a robot.

Time is not far away when robots will be doing a host of activities that are done by a doctor. They can measure blood pressure, assist the sick who fell down, take out ward rounds and give company to patients. This is not myth, rather fast turning into reality. The Kiwi researchers are now working on a new robotic technology, which will enable robots to perform a range of doctors’ activities.

The New Zealand researchers have joined hands with their Korean counterparts and opened a new robotics laboratory in Auckland to progress in their mission. They will utilize robotic technology developed by Korean scientists to enable the robots to speak and recognize English, so that the robo docs can interact with patients conveniently.

The Kiwi-based Foundation for Research, Science and Technology will provide $1.8 million to the project, while Korea has agreed to offer $3.7 million. The project will go on for three years.

Via Gizmowatch