In a major step toward transforming healthcare, the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority has partnered with Waive Diagnostics, a US-based firm to introduce personalised medical screenings and advanced DNA-based health services. The three-year collaboration aims to position Gelephu as a regional hub for AI-driven healthcare technology.
With the signing of the MoU today, the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority and US-based Waive Diagnostics have agreed to collaborate on bringing AI-powered diagnostic and genetic services to Bhutan.
The initiative will see the development of a state-of-the-art laboratory capable of offering genetic testing services powered by artificial intelligence. These services are expected to improve the speed, accuracy, and personalisation of healthcare in Bhutan.
Waive Diagnostics is a healthcare technology leader focused on redefining precision health through the integration of AI-driven diagnostics and therapeutics.
Officials say the initiative goes beyond improving clinical services. It is also designed to position GMC as a regional hub for precision medicine and AI-driven healthcare innovation.
David Stefanich, Managing Partner, Waive Diagnostics said, “So, in Waive Diagnostics we focus on precision medicines, longevity studies, bringing multiple clinical aspects to the market. So, we are going to bring those from international aspects. And being able to share those clinical understandings across markets will allow Bhutan to become the centre of excellence in clinical research, clinical studies and the neighboring countries can benefit from the works being done here at the GMC.”
As part of the agreement, Waive Diagnostics will also roll out training programmes for local laboratory technicians in collaboration with Pelsung, creating new opportunities for skills development and employment.
David Stefanich added that “One of the things that we are proud of ourselves is bringing in the expertise in the market and developing the people. Visiting a country and visiting a population is one thing but leaving a lasting generational impact, so that people can find high paying jobs.”
The GMCA will support the initiative by providing infrastructure, administrative facilitation, and fast-tracked visas and work permits for international experts.
A joint governance board will be set up to oversee the implementation of the project and ensure its long-term success. The partnership will also explore the development of national testing protocols and the integration of diagnostic systems with Bhutan’s National Digital Identity and Electronic Patient Information System, while ensuring strict compliance with data protection laws. The agreement, which is non-binding, will serve as a framework for more detailed financial and technical commitments in the future.
Passang Dorji/Karma Wangdi
