The problem

Access to accurate, rapid diagnostics that can detect multiple diseases is limited in many low- and middle-income countries. These tests can improve disease detection, reduce delays, strengthen health systems, and help countries better prepare for health emergencies.

Our response

The Enabling Access to New Multi-disease Diagnostics Tools (MDx) project, led by CHAI, aims to accelerate access to quality-assured, multi-disease diagnostics at the primary healthcare level. The project will evaluate country readiness to incorporate new diagnostics technologies, by identifying gaps in diagnostics, design interventions to improve access, and generate lessons from early use to facilitate wider uptake.

The project will also advance the implementation of next-generation sequencing (tNGS), a novel class of diagnostic technology that can identify resistance to TB drugs and help determine the most effective treatment.

By enabling access to multi-disease diagnostic tools and tNGS platforms, the MDx project will contribute to stronger health systems, improve early disease detection and linkage to care, and support pandemic preparedness.