In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming healthcare across Rwanda, Philips has donated 390 Lumify handheld ultrasound devices to the Imbuto Foundation.
This generous contribution, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is set to revolutionize medical diagnostics, especially in rural and underserved areas, by providing healthcare professionals with portable, high-quality imaging tools.
The partnership aligns with Rwanda’s broader healthcare goals, enhancing the country’s ability to deliver timely, accurate diagnoses, particularly in remote regions where advanced medical technologies are scarce. The Lumify ultrasound devices combine advanced transducers with a smartphone app, allowing clinicians to conduct ultrasound exams using mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. This innovation ensures that diagnostic imaging is accessible in even the most challenging environments.
“The initiative’s impact is profound. With the Philips Lumify ultrasound, we can provide critical care in emergency, primary, and maternal healthcare settings,” said Vugayabagabo Jackson, Deputy Director General of Programs at Imbuto Foundation. “We are committed to empowering healthcare professionals in Rwanda, equipping them with the necessary tools and training to deliver better patient outcomes nationwide.”
The Lumify handheld device is designed to be portable and user-friendly, delivering high-quality imaging that can be used in a variety of point-of-care scenarios. This includes emergency care, prenatal maternal healthcare, and even remote consultations, where real-time collaboration with specialists is critical.
By streaming live ultrasound images and video feeds, the device allows healthcare providers in remote areas to consult with experts, ensuring timely and informed decision-making at the point of care.
Joe Harb, Senior Program Officer at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “Our goal is to bring health technology to underserved areas to improve health outcomes. By providing healthcare professionals with the tools they need, we are building a stronger healthcare system in Rwanda and advancing health equity.”
To ensure the effective use of these new devices, Philips initiated a “Train the Trainer” program for about 20 ultrasound technologists from the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC).
This hands-on training session provided the technologists with the necessary skills to teach nurses, midwives, and clinical officers in rural areas, enabling them to integrate ultrasound diagnostics into their daily practices.
“Through this collaboration, we are not only improving healthcare access but also contributing to Rwanda’s remarkable progress in enhancing health outcomes over the past two decades,” said Eddy Rizk, Business Leader for Ultrasound at Philips META. “By equipping healthcare workers with portable ultrasound devices and comprehensive training, we are helping to improve the quality of life for countless individuals in Rwanda.”
This partnership represents a significant step forward in Rwanda’s healthcare transformation, reinforcing its commitment to providing better healthcare for all citizens, regardless of location.
The continued collaboration between Philips, the Imbuto Foundation, and the Ministry of Health promises to build a resilient healthcare infrastructure that can meet the needs of Rwanda’s population for years to come.
