These cutting-edge devices are expected to improve medical diagnostic capabilities in Rwanda, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
The Imbuto Foundation, a Rwandan NGO focused on health, education and youth empowerment, has just received 390 Lumify portable ultrasound devices, provided by Philips with funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
The initiative aims to strengthen medical imaging capabilities across Rwanda, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Philips’Lumify device features innovative technology that transforms compatible smartphones and tablets into professional-grade ultrasound devices.
“One of the core goals of our work at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is to bring medical technologies to underserved areas of the world to improve health outcomes,” said Joe Harb, Senior Programme Manager for Innovative Product Introduction at the Gates Foundation.
The unique feature of these devices is their tele-ultrasound function allowing healthcare professionals in the field to collaborate in real time with remote specialists.
For Vugayabagabo Jackson, Deputy General Manager for Programs at Imbuto Foundation, “This initiative aims to improve healthcare delivery and ensure better patient outcomes nationwide.”
A train-the-trainer session was held for about 20 ultrasound technicians from Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC). They will in turn train healthcare professionals in rural areas.
“By providing portable point-of-care ultrasound devices and comprehensive training, we are not only supporting Imbuto Foundation’s vision, but also building on the remarkable progress made in improving health outcomes in Rwanda over the past two decades,” said Eddy Rizk,Business Manager Ultrasound at Philips META (Middle East, Turkey and Africa).
The project partners will continue to work closely with the Imbuto Foundation and the Ministry of Health to ensure optimal use of this equipment by Rwandan health professionals, underlines the note received on Tuesday by APA.
ARD/te/fss/gik/APA