What Is WHITIA?               
The World Health Imaging, Telemedicine & Informatics Alliance (WHITIA) is a non-profit, diagnostic medical imaging solutions provider.  WHITIA provides reliable and sustainable solutions, giving communities access to the latest technology for better patient care. Read More> 

Why is there a need for an organization like WHITIA?
There have been past attempts made to bring diagnostic imaging to developing countries but those efforts have been mostly unsuccessful.  This is largely due to a lack of organization between the key partners necessary for a sustainable solution.  WHITIA leverages its relationships with key stakeholders such as local health authorities, global Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), philanthropic organizations, academic institutions, civil society and the imaging industry to deliver low-cost, digital diagnostic tools to underserved communities worldwide.  Read More>

Why focus on X-ray?
Much of the developing world is without access to basic X-ray, in fact the WHO estimates that two-thirds of the world’s population is without access to this diagnostic tool.  X-ray is a basic and necessary part of the diagnostic process for up to 60% of clinical cases.  The images provided through x-ray are needed for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as Tuberculosis, Pneumonia, HIV, cancer, trauma and other respiratory and abdominal ailments.  Images allow doctors worldwide to consult on a case and aid in diagnosis and treatment. Read More>

How is WHITIA’s solution different from other organizations working with X-ray?
WHITIA’s key differentiators are a robust suite of services designed to enhance the sustainability of the imaging site.  WHITIA has made it a primary focus to identify potential sustainability issues facing developing communities.  As part of our services, WHITIA will conduct a site assessment to not only identify these problems but devise a plan to address them.  WHITIA assists in fundraising efforts as well as the purchasing of a service agreement and support through NGO and/or university connections. Read More>

Why a digital solution?  
There have been previous efforts made to address the issue of accessibility but unfortunately little progress has been made.  This is largely due to the analog systems deployed and the issue of sustainability.  Analog X-rays often go unused for the following reasons:

• Replenishing of film and chemicals is expensive and often unaffordable for clinics and hospitals in low-resource areas.
• Equipment fails and there is no one liable for repairs.
• There are few, if any, local radiologists available to interpret the film.
• Equipment is portable and is susceptible to theft.

By introducing a digital component, WHITIA is able to directly address these issues as well as help ensure sustainability.  The digital component also allows remote technicians and clinics to enlist the assistance of radiologists worldwide, an important aspect to telemedicine and teleradiology.