The Ministry of Health and Social Services has taken a major step forward in the fight against tuberculosis with the introduction of artificial intelligence-powered portable chest X-ray machines. 

These innovative tools are already making a significant impact in screening and early detection efforts, especially in areas with limited access to medical personnel.

As part of a nationwide effort to transform TB care, the Ministry of Health and Social Services is harnessing AI technology to improve access to timely diagnosis and ensure that those who need treatment receive it without delay.

Dr. Ruswa Nunurai, Clinical Chief Mentor for the TB and Leprosy Programme in the Ministry, says technology has greatly enhanced the way tuberculosis is detected, significantly reducing the chances of missed diagnoses.

"One of the innovative tools we are now using is the portable chest X-ray machine, which can be paired with artificial intelligence (AI) technology to help detect TB more efficiently. Namibia currently has three types of these AI-supported machines. The AI software interprets chest X-rays and highlights abnormalities, even in areas where doctors may not be available to read the scans."

Minister of Health and Social Services, Esperance Luvindao, says the adoption of AI technologies aligns with the ministry's vision to capitalise on the potential of digital technologies and artificial intelligence. 

Dr. Luvindao adds that AI technologies will ease the burden on healthcare workers, as seen in the case of TB, by quickly detecting normal and abnormal scans, allowing doctors to focus on patients who require urgent care.

"For many years, we have raised concerns about the shortage of doctors on the ground and the long waiting times faced by patients. These machines are highly efficient and can screen between 200 and 300 people per day. What makes this advancement even more significant is that these machines can operate in areas without doctors. The built-in AI reads and analyses X-ray images, allowing for the early diagnosis of TB. This feature enables timely referrals or treatment, with patients receiving their results within seconds and returning home with peace of mind."

The minister reaffirmed Namibia's commitment to ending tuberculosis by 2030, emphasising the importance of early detection and prompt treatment.

"Artificial intelligence also supports our national goal of eliminating tuberculosis by 2030. The earlier we detect TB, the sooner we can treat it, preventing its spread. When people go undiagnosed and untreated, they unknowingly transmit the disease to others."

She further expressed her commitment to championing innovative, digital, and technological approaches in public health and expanding such solutions to other areas beyond TB to strengthen the health system as a whole. 

She emphasised that AI is not intended to replace healthcare professionals but to complement their efforts by working hand in hand to improve patient care and outcomes.

Dr. Katri Kalukambe, a Senior Medical Officer who has used the AI-supported system in the field, shared her experience and praised the technology for its efficiency.

"My experience using the AI system has been excellent and phenomenal. It saves time and is extremely efficient. For instance, we had a patient who had been admitted and discharged without a TB diagnosis, but with this machine, TB was immediately detected. We were able to start treatment right away and reduce transmission. AI is the way to go; it's not here to replace doctors but to work hand in hand with them."