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Pamela Shumba Chronicle Reporter
A new advanced diagnostic X-ray machine, which is fast, flexible and affordable has been officially launched in Bulawayo. The FireCR medical scanner was launched by Bymed Medical and Scientific, a local company in conjunction with a South African company, Imagex (Pvt), Ltd.Instead of using films and chemicals like the old X-ray machines, the FireCR uses a computer system that allows it to print patients’ diagnosis on paper, download on a compact disc or send it via E-mail.
Speaking during the launch at a local hotel on Wednesday, radiologist Dr Danboy Gandanhamo said new technology plays a critical role in the improvement of health productivity and standards of services in health institutions.
He said it was important for health institutions to move from the old model equipment and pave way for new digital equipment.
“There is no going back. We need to move from the old models to the new digital systems. The FireCR scanner is a very useful machine, which is a cheaper option for all Government and private health institutions.
“Although purchasing such equipment requires funding, we should be looking at one direction because new technology improves efficiency in our hospitals and clinics and also works as a cost reduction strategy,” said Dr Gandanhamo.
He said it was important for health practitioners to change their mindset towards new technologies for the country to match international standards.
“I would like to encourage administrators at health institutions to seriously look at the future and consider equipping their hospitals with the latest health equipment. There is also a need for change of mindset among doctors so that they prioritise the use of advanced equipment.
“Bymed should also create a platform where workshops are organised for doctors so that hey familiarise themselves with the advanced equipment that would be availed for them in the hospitals,” said Dr Gandanhamo.
Imagex director, Mr Gus Solyom said the new advanced scanner, which costs between $18 000 and $20 000 was a reliable machine suitable for all health care facilities.
“The FireCR medical scanner is ideal for any health facility seeking flexibility, which allows them to grow. The advanced system offers better image quality, as well as increased stability and reduced maintenance requirements. It is also user and service friendly.
“We have so far installed the scanners in South Africa, Swaziland, Angola and Namibia in a bid to improve efficiency in our African hospitals,” said Mr Solyom.
Bymed marketing executive Mr Tshidzanani Malaba said his company was committed to improving technology in health institutions and appealed to banking institutions to support the health sector.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare attended the event.
Radiographers from Bulawayo, Matabeleland North, South and Midlands provinces on Wednesday attended a one-day workshop at United Bulawayo Hospitals to learn how the FireCR scanner operates.
The new machine will also be launched in Harare.
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