Government launches X-Ray Setu on WhatsApp to detect COVID-19 cases in areas with no RT-PCR tests

Government has launched an artificial intelligence based X-Ray Setu which can be operated through WhatsApp. For this project, the government plans to onboard 10,000 doctors in small towns where RT-PCR and CT Scans are not available for COVID detection. This is going to be an important tool for rural doctors who are struggling to source equipment for covid detection. The government has partnered with non-profit organisation Artpark and Niramai for the same.

“XraySetu is the artificial intelligence-driven Chest Xray interpretation over Whatsapp for doctors. Designed with the close collaboration of AI researchers from ARTPARK, Niramai Health and the Indian Institute of Science over the last 10 months, Xraysetu is quick and simple for busy doctors to use. We believe that this could be the model for the future of Indian healthcare, accessible to everyone where everyone might be,” the website says.

CEO of Artwork Umakant Soni told news agency PTI that the X-Ray setu has been developed in collaboration with start-up Niramai and IISC. The new technology helps in detecting COVID-19 using X-ray processed with an AI system. No fee is being charged currently for this.

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“We are planning to create a strong network of 10,000 doctors in the next 15 days who are trained in leveraging XraySetu so that when the third COVID wave comes, we are ready with solutions that can reach doctors in rural areas,” Soni said. He also revealed that the technology has been operational for the last one week and around 500 doctors have used it.

Here is how the tests can be conducted using X-Ray Setu

—In order to try the new technology, doctors need to visit www.xraysetu.com. The feature is currently available in the beta version

— Once you visit the website, you will find a ‘Try the Free X-Ray Setu Beta’ button.

— When you click on the button, you will be taken to the WhatsApp chat window of X-Ray setu.

— You can then send the picture of the patient’s X-Ray. The 2-page diagnostics will be sent back within a few minutes. The doctor can then advise the patients accordingly.

This tool is only useful for doctors, radiologists in rural areas. Using XraySetu, a rural doctor can get an interpretation of chest XRay within minutes. The highlight of this technology is that it can also read low-resolution images.