GlobalDiagnostiX

An appropriate diagnostic imaging (x-ray) system.
Affordable and adapted to the context of resource-poor settings.

Global need for Diagnostic Imaging:

— 2/3 of humanity, has no access to diagnostic imaging

— Basic Ultrasound and Radiology cover 80-90% of diagnostic imaging needs

— The global need is 1 per 15’000population i.e. 268’000 units.

Importance for Public Health:

— Pregnancy related (mother and child mortality/Millennium goal #5)

— Basic Road traffic accidents (90% of victims live in developing countries)

— Tuberculosis

— Complications of pneumonia, the number 1 infant killer worldwide.

Project goal:

— Entirely develop an appropriate digital radiography system with an integrated ultrasound module.

Technology constraints:

— Ultra-Affordable:
total cost of ownership <$50’000 (over 10 years lifecycle).

— Adapted to local conditions:
unreliable mains, high temperature and humidity, no maintenance, no consumables, rough environment, low level of skills…

— More than 10 years of effective useful life

Core technology building blocks:

— X-Ray source-detector system:
robust, 10°C-55°C, 98% humidity, affordable, no maintenance required.

— Power supply:
robust, 5 hours power back-up, surge resistant, affordable, no maintenance required.

— Image processing and user interface:
easy to learn and use, Teleradiology capability, image storage for 6’000-10’000 images per year over10 years.