Applications
Low-cost ultrasound model for bringing training, technology and ultrasound diagnosis to the point of care in rural areas for purpose of giving advance warning of life-threatening maternal conditions
Advantages
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Low barrier of entry – ultrasound protocols can be taught to healthcare workers without background in internal medicine in two days
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Possible use anywhere cell phone signal is available
Important Milestones Achieved
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IRB supervised research in process showing impact of ultrasound on rural community in Uganda – initial data promising
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IRB supervised Image Quality Studies completed – data to be released around autumn 2011
Next Steps in Development
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Gathering essential data to test two hypotheses:
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Operators with no technical knowledge or training will be able to acquire and transmit images that equal the utility of traditional ultrasound imaging (performed by an operator with years of training) for certain common diagnoses
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Remote ultrasound diagnoses will improve maternal and neonatal outcomes
Partnerships/Collaboration Work
Funding Source
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation