Delhi to Repurpose TB Testing Machines for Hepatitis B, C Screening

In a move to optimize its diagnostic infrastructure, the Delhi government has decided to repurpose 85 Truenat molecular testing platforms for detecting viral hepatitis, marking a strategic shift in the utilization of existing health technology resources.

Under the proposed arrangement, authorities plan to initially allocate one Truenat platform per district to conduct viral load testing for patients diagnosed with hepatitis B and C. This allocation will enable health facilities to monitor disease progression and assess treatment efficacy more efficiently across the city.

Truenat machines, which deliver rapid and accurate molecular diagnostics, have been instrumental in tuberculosis screening programs across India. The Delhi government's decision reflects efforts to leverage existing laboratory capacity to address the broader disease burden, particularly viral hepatitis which remains a significant public health concern in urban centers.

The repurposing initiative is expected to reduce waiting periods for hepatitis patients seeking viral load confirmation and support clinicians in making informed treatment decisions. The rollout will be implemented subject to the completion of operational protocols and staff training requirements.

Health officials indicated that the move aligns with the government's broader strategy to strengthen diagnostic networks and improve access to advanced testing services for communicable diseases across all administrative districts in Delhi.

Photo: A Molbio Truenat molecular diagnostic system (Trueprep and Truelab units), December 2025. Aliva Sahoo via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).