Testimonials from the Field: Renan Junior MICHEL on using the IMPACT System in prison settings in Haiti

Written by Renan Junior MICHEL- Data Manager & Radiology Technician conducting tuberculosis screening in Haiti with Health Through Walls

I am trilingual and a specialist in multiple fields with over ten years of experience in technical management, logistics and team supervision. Over time, I have deliberately oriented my career toward public health, with the understanding that I can have a direct impact on the lives of vulnerable populations. In addition to my work in logistics and management, I am an accomplished data manager and radiology technician, screening for tuberculosis (TB) in Haiti with Health Through Walls, an organization that works with prison authorities to strengthen healthcare services in for people in detention.

One service we prioritize at Health Through Walls is TB screening, because incarcerated people have significantly higher rates of TB compared to the public. Overcrowding, poor ventilation and long hours in confined spaces create ideal conditions for TB to spread. I am proud to have conducted more than 2,000 TB screenings across 10 sites throughout my country of Haiti, an effort that I know has saved lives.

Rapid screening for early detection of TB is critical to ensuring better health outcomes, preventing transmission, reducing drug resistance and lowering healthcare costs. At Health Through Walls, I now support the rollout and use of the MinXray Impact Wireless system and manage data collected and analyzed with Qure.ai to ensure quality.

I was thrilled with the arrival of the MinXray system, as I discovered it to be an innovative, fast and effective technology. Compact, lightweight and powered by two rechargeable batteries, it allows me to deploy quickly in remote areas without heavy generators. The Qure.ai artificial intelligence analyzes each X-ray in under a minute, eliminating the need to wait weeks for results, even in areas with limited internet. The artificial intelligence efficiently analyzes images to identify presumptive cases, allowing me to act immediately to perform further testing, implement treatment and prevent further spread. This technology has significantly improved my efficiency and performance in the field, while also helping me to improve patient care.

Working with MinXray has shown me that technology, when thoughtfully deployed, can transform access to care and save lives. My goal is to continue deepening my knowledge and share my experience to contribute to the fight against tuberculosis and improving public health conditions in Haiti.