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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.
