44 TS govt hospitals get 56 new TIFFA scan machines

Hyderabad: Fifty-six TIFFA (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies) scanning machines were virtually launched in 44 government hospitals across Telangana by health minister Harish Rao and Home minister Mahmood Ali.

Speaking at the event, minister Harish Rao said the TIFFA scan machines will change maternal health care in government hospitals. He urged pregnant women to avail of these services between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.

"TIFFA scans in private hospitals or diagnostic centers cost Rs. 2,000-3,000. With the machines now present at government hospitals, an estimated 20,000 pregnant women can use these services every month for free," he said.

He added, "Only specialised radiologists or gynecologists perform this scan. Every organ on the baby's body is scanned from head to toe."

TIFFA scan aids in detecting abnormalities in the unborn child while in the womb. Internal organs such as the heart, lungs, and so on are scanned in 3D and 4D imaging. Any organ flaws, such as a hole in the heart, crooked legs, limbs, or vertebrae, are shown, and also the baby's position in the womb, the location of the uterus or placenta, and the state of the amniotic fluid are all recognised.

This allows the doctors to be better prepared during childbirth by having pediatric surgeons during the delivery or even decide if a normal delivery is possible or if a cesarean section would be required.

The health minister further said according to NITI Ayog, Telangana is top in various metrics due to the four ANC (antenatal care) checkups throughout pregnancy, KCR kits, Amma Odi vehicles, and Mata Shishu Care Centers.

Listing out the metrics, he said, "In 2014, government hospitals accounted for 30% of all deliveries. Today, they account for 66%."

He added, "99% of deliveries take place in institutions (hospitals, healthcare facilities). The maternal mortality rate (per lakh) has reduced from 92 to 56, and the infant mortality rate (per lakh) has reduced from 39 to 23."

Health secretary Rizvi, family health welfare department commissioner Swetha Mahanti, director of medical education Ramesh Reddy, and Petlaburj Hospital superintendent Dr. Malathi also attended the event.