Medtech players team up on COVID-19 diagnosis plan

Two technology companies are working together on a plan to fast-track the diagnosis of COVID-19 in NHS hospitals using artificial intelligence analysis of chest X-rays.

behold.ai has developed the artificial intelligence-based red dot algorithm which can identify within 30 seconds abnormalities in chest X-rays. Wellbeing Software operates Cris, a Radiology Information System (RIS), which is installed in over 700 locations.

A national roll-out combining these two technologies would enable a large number of hospitals to quickly process the significant volume of X-rays, currently being used as the key diagnostic test for triage of COVID-19 patients, thereby speeding up diagnosis and easing pressure on the NHS at this critical time. This solution will also find use in dealing with the backlog of cases that continue to mount, such as suspected cancer patients.

Simon Rasalingham, chairman and CEO of behold.ai, said: “behold.ai and Wellbeing are a great fit in terms of expertise and technology. We are able to prioritise abnormal chest X-rays with greater than 90% accuracy and a 30-second turnaround. If that were translated into a busy hospital coping with COVID-19, the benefits to healthcare systems are potentially enormous.”

Chris Yeowart, director at Wellbeing Software, added: “Our technology provides the integration between the algorithm and the hospital’s radiology systems and working processes, addressing the technical challenges to clearing the way for accelerated national rollout. It is clear from talking to radiology departments that chest X-rays have become one of the primary diagnostic tools for COVID-19 in this country.”