We’re thrilled to report that our radio network has been extended to the Tanzanian side of the lake and we’ve successfully introduced an innovative, electronic medical record (EMR) platform – the first of its kind in the region! Health care workers will now be able to record, and then easily and efficiently review patient visits, test results, and diagnoses, which aids in clinical decision making and results in higher quality care for patients. With consistent, on-time transmission of tallies of communicable disease cases to the Ministries of Health, potential epidemics can be recognized and contained much more efficiently and epidemiologic data may be accurately captured.
During the pilot last October in Nkasi District of Tanzania’s southern coastline, our team trained 12 health care workers in basic computer skills, which was followed by an introduction to the EMR system over a two-week period hosted by the LTFHC at the Kirando Health Center. Our technical team then successfully completed equipment installations of communications units at 5 health centers, which was complemented by additional on-site provider instruction.
Video: Community members assisting to plant poles for HF radio antenna at Izinga Health Center
Stay tuned for more updates as we expand this electronic medical record platform to the DRC!
