Malawi installs hi-tech X-ray machine at Likoma Island health center
The machine is expected to reduce mobility challenges and save costs associated with patient referrals to the mainland.
LIKOMA ISLAND, Malawi — The Malawi government has installed a high-tech digital X-ray machine at Chima Health Center on Likoma Island, aiming to improve health service delivery at the newly promoted facility, writes Mercy Phiri.
Eunice Nahache Kajombo, the chief radiography technologist at the Ministry of Health, said during a joint visit with the parliamentary health committee that the digital system replaces the analog system that produced hard copy results.
"This static digital X-ray machine has artificial intelligence software that will analyze chest images and provide diagnoses," Kajombo said.
She added that the technology would speed up image interpretation and help address human resource challenges in initiating patient treatment.
The machine is expected to reduce mobility challenges and save costs associated with patient referrals to the mainland.
Dr. Mathews Ngwale, chairperson of the parliamentary health committee, said Likoma is among 21 health facilities benefiting from the high-class diagnostic equipment.
"We came with the suppliers to assess the building where the machine will be installed," Ngwale said, expressing excitement that Chima Health Center could become one of the best in Africa once the machine is operational.
The project, funded by the Malawi government with support from the World Bank and other donors, faces a funding shortfall of about K40 million due to currency devaluation, according to Christopher Ashemes Songwe, the local member of parliament.
Songwe expressed concern over insufficient fund allocation to the Likoma District Health Office, citing population growth that is increasing drug demand on the island.