R4H continues to implement its Medical Sample and Result Transport Program across all 29 districts of Malawi. From 8th to 10th April 2025, Angellina Mwase, Programs Manager for Quality Assurance, led check-in meetings in Kasungu, Nkhotakota, and Dedza District Hospital Offices (DHOs). These meetings aimed to gather constructive feedback from District Medical Officers and laboratory technicians, who are the key contacts for R4H couriers at district hospitals.

During the discussions, Mphatso Mgungu, the Deputy Laboratory Manager and Health Surveillance Assistant (HSA) for Dedza DHO, expressed his appreciation for R4H’s efficiency. He highlighted that the program typically ensures that samples are transported from health facilities within 24 to 48 hours, a timeframe that significantly enhances the quality of patient care. “There are no challenges with couriers, nor have we reported any problems in terms of specimen and result handling,” Mgungu noted. He further emphasized the invaluable role of the couriers, stating that they assist in transporting essential items when immediate needs arise at health facilities or the DHO. For instance, well-packaged test- kits and critical reports ensuring that healthcare providers on both ends have the necessary resources.

However, Mgungu raised a concern regarding delays in transporting samples due to national fuel scarcity. He noted that this issue could potentially hinder the timely delivery of samples and results, which is crucial for effective patient management.

At Kasungu DHO, Felistus Somanje, the District Medical Officer (DMO), added on the opinions raised by her Dedza counterpart. She urged R4H to consider scaling up their reach to other health facilities in Kaungu that are currently not benefiting from the sample and result transport services. “There are several facilities in our district that would greatly benefit from this program,” Somanje stated. Expanding R4H’s services would not only improve our operational efficiency but also enhance patient outcomes across the board.

The meetings concluded with a commitment from R4H to explore ways to address the concerns raised including the expansion opportunities, ensuring that all healthcare facilities in Malawi can access timely and efficient transport of medical samples and results.

In April 2025, R4H conducted a transformative training program for its HR, Finance, and ICT staff, focusing on the Employee Self-Service (ESS) and Digitized Timesheet Systems. The training was for two days, 23rd and 24th April 2025, and it took place at the R4H Head Office in Lilongwe. The training focused on Sage VIP Premier ESS, learning about employee interfaces, leave management, and payroll processes. Facilitators Tanangachi Khonje, Payroll & HR Systems Consultant from Infosys, and Lonely Chisale, IT Assistant from R4H, led the sessions.

The training sessions were a success; participants were actively engaged and showcased their willingness to learn.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Training Outcomes

1. Participants gained a thorough understanding of ESS and the Digitized Timesheets System
2. Participants are now capable of effectively managing system workflows and user administration modules within the ESS.

 Successes

1. The training sessions were marked by high levels of participant engagement, reflecting strong interest and active involvement throughout the program.
2. Successfully equipped participants with a comprehensive understanding of the ESS and Digitized Timesheets System.
3. Empowered participants to proficiently manage system workflows and user administration modules within the ESS.

 

 

Joining R4H in January 2013 was my best career decision. My name is Blester Mwambira, I am based in Rumphi District, where I serve in two rural hospitals and 15 health centers.

Working with R4H has been an exciting experience, especially witnessing the fast healthcare logistics we provide. I am proud to testify that R4H has helped bring about Global Health Equity by ensuring timely healthcare service delivery reaches everyone, everywhere. Through R4H, I am a story of success in promoting access to quality healthcare across the globe.

From October– December 2023, I successfully executed the scheduled facility visits, maintaining normal turnaround – time (TAT) adherence with no breakdowns or sample rejections. The seamless collaboration between sample transport couriers, healthcare workers, and data clerks enhanced TAT adherence and results management. Despite challenges like riding in muddy roads due to heavy rains and fuel shortages, I am glad I overcame and I managed to serve my community efficiently.