Faisal Zain is a healthcare expert specializing in medical technology, with significant experience in the manufacturing of medical devices used for diagnostics and treatment. He is at the forefront of an ambitious initiative in sub-Saharan Africa leveraging point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) to improve maternal healthcare.
Can you tell us about the ambitious initiative you’ve been involved with in sub-Saharan Africa? Why was the implementation of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) chosen for this project? How did you identify the healthcare facilities for deployment?
The initiative in sub-Saharan Africa, which has been ongoing for two years, aims to bridge the gap in maternal care by deploying pocket-sized ultrasound technology across hundreds of healthcare facilities. We chose POCUS because it offers a cost-effective, easily deployable solution for diagnostics in resource-limited settings. We identified healthcare facilities based on the high rates of maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity, starting in regions like Kenya with significant need.
What does the training program for healthcare workers involve? How did you ensure the training was comprehensive and effective? Could you elaborate on Phase Two of the training program in Kenya?
The training program involves a comprehensive curriculum developed by the Global Ultrasound Institute (GUSI), which starts by training local clinicians in ISUOG-standard techniques. We ensured the training was effective by including pre-tests, hands-on training, and post-tests, along with final examinations. Phase Two in Kenya involved intensive logging of different types of scans and culminated in certification upon successful completion, ensuring healthcare workers were adequately prepared.
Can you share the initial results from the evaluation conducted by Kenyatta University? How has this initiative impacted maternal health outcomes? What are the significant findings from Phase Two of the Kenya program?
Initial results from Kenyatta University’s evaluation showed 90% of trained healthcare workers could identify high-risk conditions promptly. The initiative has significantly impacted maternal health by enabling earlier identification and treatment of complications. Phase Two findings indicated that over 495,000 scans were performed, with 95% of the equipment still functioning, demonstrating the program’s sustainable integration into the healthcare workflow.
How is the program being expanded to South Africa? What are the preliminary results from the implementation in South Africa? How do you ensure the sustainability of POCUS in these healthcare settings?
The program’s expansion to South Africa began in the Eastern Cape province, involving additional instruction in fetal biometry. Preliminary results are promising, with over 573,000 scans performed, enhancing maternal education and informed decision-making by providers. We ensure sustainability by pairing easy-to-use equipment with thorough training and integrating POCUS into existing health systems and protocols.
What sets this initiative apart from other healthcare technology deployments? How does intensive training for healthcare workers contribute to the program’s success? What role does ongoing remote quality-assurance review play in the program?
The comprehensive approach sets this initiative apart, focusing not just on technology distribution but also on integration into existing systems. Intensive training ensures healthcare workers are proficient, contributing significantly to the program’s success. Ongoing remote quality-assurance reviews and mentorship provide continuous support, ensuring high standards are maintained.
How do public-private partnerships contribute to the success of this initiative? What are the implications of this initiative for global health? How are researchers evaluating the impact on broader health system metrics?
Public-private partnerships have been crucial, facilitating funding, resources, and policy support. These collaborations underline the importance of joint efforts in tackling healthcare challenges. The initiative has broad implications, offering a model for other regions. Researchers are evaluating its impact on health system metrics like referral patterns and maternal health outcomes to understand how best to deploy such technology globally.
What motivated you to get involved in this initiative? How has your experience been with teaching point-of-care ultrasound in low-income countries? What do you see as the future for maternal healthcare in resource-limited settings?
My motivation stems from a commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes in underserved regions. Teaching POCUS in low-income countries has been immensely rewarding, witnessing firsthand the positive changes it brings. The future for maternal healthcare in these settings involves continued innovation, extensive training, and sustainable integration of diagnostic technologies to ensure mothers receive the timely care they need.
How did the $5 million grant from Butterfly Network support this initiative? How important is funding for the success of such healthcare initiatives? How do you plan to sustain the funding for ongoing and future projects?
The $5 million grant from Butterfly Network was instrumental in facilitating equipment acquisition, training programs, and initial deployments. Funding is crucial for the success and expansion of healthcare initiatives. To sustain funding, we aim to continue forming strategic partnerships, demonstrating the program’s impact to attract further investments, and exploring diverse funding sources to ensure longevity.
What do you see as the future for maternal healthcare in resource-limited settings?
The future for maternal healthcare in these settings looks promising, with continual advancements in technology and training. By leveraging innovative solutions like POCUS and ensuring sustainable practices, we can significantly reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, ultimately transforming healthcare delivery for mothers and babies in resource-limited environments.
