Two thirds of the global population still don’t have access to X-ray machines. To address this global health problem, Pristem wants to bring a robust and inexpensive X-ray machine to global south hospitals. In the global south, hospitals frequently face disruptive environmental conditions that damages the X-ray machine, causing many to quickly break down. In sub-Saharan Africa, up to 70% of the medical equipment currently in place is non-operational.
Under the direction of the EssentialTech programme of the Centre for Cooperation and Development at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), a team of 35 researchers and engineers – notably sourced from the University of Applied Sciences of Western Switzerland (HES-SO), the Paul Scherrer Institute and the Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) – developed a prototype.
The result of their hard work comes in the form of the GlobalDiagnostiX X-ray machine – which is designed to withstand temperatures of up to 45 degree Celcius and 98 percent humidity levels, as well as high quantities of dust. The electric motors used in industrialised countries to make the arms move have been replaced by a mechanical system, while digital technology has taken the place of radiological films in order to cut back on costs. In the event of a power cut, a specially designed generator will allow the radiology machine to operate independently for a few hours.
The Pristem model includes a six-year warranty. On top of that, where there is an Internet connection, it will be possible to monitor the state of their devices remotely, and offer support to local personnel to help them conduct preventive maintenance checks. The Internet will also enable remote radiology services to be carried out using out technology, which could prove vital in areas that severely lack medical specialists.
Bertrand Klaiber’s growing project hopes to create nearly 400 jobs in Africa, as well as 25 jobs in Switzerland. The project has potential benefits lined up for local populations and governments as well as for hospitals. Both African and Swiss investors have already jumped on the Pristem ship. The start-up is currently halfway towards meeting their needed funding.
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Source: The Straits Times, 24 June 2017