Dr. Stephen John: TB Active Case Finding in Nigeria

At The Union 2023, the conversation between Qure.ai’s Jai Bassi and Dr. Stephen John focuses on Janna Health's work in resource-constrained settings, particularly among nomadic pastoralists. Dr. John elaborates on the challenges of providing healthcare in these areas and how technology, especially portable X-ray machines and AI software, has significantly improved TB diagnosis and treatment.

 Jai Bassi introduces Dr. Stephen John, who has extensive experience in managing TB, leprosy, and HIV programs in underserved populations, funded by various global organizations. 

1. Challenges in Resource-Constrained Settings: Dr. John describes the difficulties in delivering healthcare to nomadic pastoralists in remote areas, highlighting inadequate health facilities, access issues, and limited human resources. 

2. Janna Health's Integrated Approach: Janna Health practices integrated service delivery, addressing tuberculosis, leprosy, and HIV simultaneously. Dr. John discusses their approach of screening for these diseases among nomadic and internally displaced persons. 

3. Engaging Nomadic Populations: Dr. John details the strategies used to engage nomadic communities, such as employing a focal person from within the community and involving local volunteers and leaders in the healthcare process. 

4. Technology in Healthcare Delivery: Dr. John explains how portable X-ray machines and AI software have been game-changers for diagnosing TB in areas lacking radiologists and other resources. The adoption of a lower threshold for TB presumptive cases based on radiographic analysis has led to increased detection and treatment. 

5. Success Stories and Future Plans: Dr. John shares success stories of how their approach has significantly improved health outcomes. He also discusses future plans for expanding services to cover more nomadic populations in Nigeria and conducting research on different types of TB. 

 The conversation concludes with Jai Bassi commending Dr. John's work and expressing hope for the continued expansion and impact of Janna Health's programs. Dr. John emphasizes the crucial role of AI and technology in improving TB diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the substantial increase in TB case detection in the regions where they operate.