SCTIMST Partners with WHO to Advance Global HealthTech

This collaboration positions SCTIMST as a potential global partner in the WHO’s Health Technology Access Pool (HTAP), a platform designed to promote the sharing of innovative health technologies.

The Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the World Health Organization (WHO) to drive the development of health technology innovations aimed at ensuring equitable and affordable healthcare access.

This collaboration positions SCTIMST as a potential global partner in the WHO’s Health Technology Access Pool (HTAP), a platform designed to promote the sharing of innovative health technologies.

The HTAP supports scientific institutions worldwide in building comprehensive product development capabilities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Focused on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response, the HTAP also facilitates access to essential health products that address critical public health needs. It prioritizes platform technologies and health solutions that remain relevant during and beyond health emergencies.

SCTIMST, renowned for its work in indigenous health technologies—especially in diagnostics and medical devices—had previously collaborated with the WHO through the COVID-19 Technology Access Pool initiative.

A WHO delegation visited SCTIMST’s Biomedical Technology wing from February 12-13 to strategize collaborative efforts and assess health technologies developed by the institute that meet HTAP’s selection criteria. Discussions also explored the possibility of forming global and regional health technology consortia.

Reflecting on the visit, SCTIMST Director Sanjay Behari called it "very productive," highlighting that many of the institute's innovations "align with the WHO’s vision of affordable and equitable health access." He added,

"There were extensive discussions on the HTAP’s objectives and the SCTIMST’s potential involvement in its initiatives."

The WHO’s acknowledgment of SCTIMST as a key partner in advancing accessible health solutions marks a significant milestone. The institute’s dedication to addressing unmet healthcare needs complements the HTAP’s mission.

It is expected that this partnership will open doors to new global collaborations, driving forward the development of impactful health technologies.