Government launches an Artificial Intelligence based X-Ray Setu on WhatsApp to Detect COVID-19 Cases

New Delhi: Government has launched an artificial intelligence (AI) based X-Ray Setu on WhatsApp 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.

According to the reports, the government has partnered with non-profit organisations - Artpark and Niramai. The website stated, "XraySetu is the artificial intelligence-driven Chest X-ray 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, X-ray setu 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."

Umakant Soni, CEO of Artpark, said 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. "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 added.

He further revealed that the technology has been operational for the last one week and around 500 doctors have used it.

Here are the steps of 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 X-Ray Setu, a rural doctor can get an interpretation of chest X-Ray within minutes. The highlight of this technology is that it can also read low-resolution images.

Also Read: AIIMS Director Dr. Guleria warns against going for Repeated CT Scans in Mild COVID Cases

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