BISHOFTU, ETHIOPIA — In a major step toward decentralizing high-quality TB care, the Ministry of Health recently distributed Truenat MTB/RIF DX molecular diagnostic machines to peripheral health facilities across the country. The rollout aims to increase community access to rapid, accurate testing for both TB and drug-resistant TB (DR-TB).
To ensure these machines are operational without delay, the Urban TB LON II Project organized a comprehensive, four-day Truenat MTB/RIF Dx technical training in Bishoftu town.
Bridging the Diagnostic Gap at the Point-of-Care
Traditional sputum smear microscopy frequently misses low bacterial loads, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children and people living with HIV. The introduction of the Truenat platform brings molecular “gold-standard” testing directly to primary healthcare centers. Because the devices are battery-operated, portable, and highly rugged, they can operate efficiently in remote or low-infrastructure settings where traditional molecular platforms cannot.
A total of 37 laboratory professionals representing six project implementation regions attended the intensive workshop. The training was specifically designed to transform theoretical knowledge into immediate, practical field competency.
Hands-On Mastery for Seamless Rollout
Over the course of four intensive days, participants engaged in rigorous practical sessions covering the entire testing ecosystem. Key focus areas included:
- Advanced Sample Processing: Mastering precise sputum liquefaction and manual DNA extraction protocols using the Trueprep AUTO component.
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Acquiring the critical technical skills needed to handle fluidic or calibration errors and prevent common cartridge blockage issues that can cause diagnostic downtime.
- Data Integration: Understanding how to interpret semi-quantitative results and leverage the machine’s built-in connectivity features for rapid data transmission and immediate patient enrollment into treatment.
“Equipping our laboratory professionals with these specialized skills ensures that the technology performs at its highest potential, significantly lowering invalid test rates in peripheral sites.”
Strengthening National Health Systems
With the practical skills acquired in Bishoftu, these 37 trainees are now fully prepared to launch and manage Truenat testing services in strict accordance with national guidelines.
With 99 Truenat machines currently deployed across Ethiopia, this joint capacity-building effort effectively bridges the diagnostic gap at the community level. By cutting turnaround times down to under two hours, the initiative significantly strengthens the national health system’s reach—bringing Ethiopia closer than ever to ending the TB epidemic.
About the Project:The Urban TB LON II Project works in close collaboration with national and regional health authorities to implement innovative, community-based health.