SonoSite and AIIT launch Kenyan ultrasound training scheme

SonoSite has allied with the African Institute of Innovation and Technology (AIIT) to launch the first ultrasound education programme at Kenya's Great Lakes University of Kisumu.

The scheme will offer access to ultrasound education, training and medical resources for local physicians, midwives and clinical workers, a move that will help to improve the health and welfare of the people in the east Africa region.

Led by Dr Thomas Burke, co-founder of the AIIT, the programme has already seen more than 100 clinical officers, midwives and physicians attending its first training courses on hand-carried ultrasound devices.

By providing access to technology and expertise in this area, the company is hoping to raise diagnostic standards in an impoverished area, thus helping to save lives.

Kevin Goodwin, SonoSite's president and chief executive officer, said: "Our belief is that education in ultrasound benefits all physicians and we are excited for the opportunity to partner with AIIT and support the mission for improved healthcare in developing countries."

Earlier this year, it was announced that SonoSite's point-of-care ultrasound systems are to be used in battlefield applications by the UK military, thanks to their convenient and robust design.