Ultrasound pilot program: Bringing critical diagnostic tools to low-resource hospitals
Ultrasound is a vital diagnostic tool in healthcare, offering a non-invasive way to see inside the body. However, in low-resource settings, the cost of equipment and the need for specialized training limit ultrasound availability.
World Telehealth Initiative (WTI) is leading the way in combining ultrasound technology with telehealth to address critical diagnostic challenges in underserved regions. Through WTI’s new ultrasound training program, we provide portable Butterfly ultrasound probes and corresponding training to three low-resource hospitals across Africa and Asia. The probes connect to our telehealth devices, enabling clinicians at partner hospitals to participate in real-time training and guidance from international experts.
The six-week hands-on point of care ultrasound (POCUS) curriculum equips clinicians with a wide range of skills, from performing echocardiograms to optic nerve assessments. Ten clinicians at each hospital are selected to participate in the course. The trainings are led by Emergency Medicine and Critical Care specialists at Orlando Health and focus on improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. With continuing remote mentorship, the program improves clinical outcomes and supports the professional growth of healthcare providers.
The first POCUS program was completed in July 2024 in Ethiopia at Hawassa University Hospital. The hospital received two POCUS kits. The physicians from Orlando Health tailored the curriculum to meet Hawassa Hospital’s needs. Providers in Hawassa can now use their newly acquired skills to enhance patient care in their community. This collaboration underscores the power of telehealth as a transformative educational tool that, when combined with ultrasound, significantly improves patient evaluation and diagnostics.
After the success of the POCUS pilot in Ethiopia, we are excited to bring this powerful program to two more hospitals. The next phase of the program will take place at Central Regional Referral Hospital (CRRH) in Bhutan. Located in Gelephu along the Bhutan-India border, CRRH serves the second-largest patient load in the country. The ultrasound kit has arrived at the hospital, and the POCUS training course is scheduled to begin in September.
World Telehealth Initiative’s ultrasound program exemplifies how innovative technology, tailored training, and international collaboration can overcome barriers and make life-saving care more accessible. By enhancing the use of diagnostic ultrasound in settings where it is typically underutilized, we’re empowering local clinicians to transform healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. As the program expands, we’re seeing firsthand how equipping providers with the right skills and resources elevates diagnostics and fosters professional growth. Together, we’re helping build stronger and more resilient healthcare systems worldwide.