NEWS
Sample transportation is a crucial aspect of healthcare delivery, and it plays a critical role in reaching out to hard-to-reach areas that may not have access to primary healthcare facilities. In these areas, sample transportation is essential for delivering a wide range of medical samples and results such as blood tests, and urine tests, among others. The overall goal of R4H’s Sample Transport Program is to increase access to diagnostic services in the targeted 29 districts of Malawi. Between October and December 2022, 86 couriers reached 764 Health facilities comprising of Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM) Health Centers, Community Hospitals, District Hospitals and Central Hospitals across Malawi.
The use of Motorcycles in sample transportation by R4H has revolutionized healthcare delivery in remote areas that are difficult to reach by conventional means. Through the Sample Transport program, we have contributed to the improvement of healthcare services and disease control in the communities we serve. By providing timely transport for samples and results, we have helped to reduce the spread of infectious diseases and supported early detection and treatment of illnesses such as tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria.
Between October and December 2022, R4H transported 165,657 Samples and 117,870 Results cumulatively. Henceforth, R4H couriers covered 482,811 Kilometers, reaching 764 health facilities with no accident recorded representing 100% success rate.
In addition, R4H continues to transport samples and results from Drop-in Centers (DICs) under ST Program. R4H is transporting DIC Samples and results for 6 districts reaching 19 DICs. The districts are as follows; Lilongwe, Mangochi, Machinga, Zomba, Blantyre, Mzimba North. The transported samples and results from the DICs are for the key population.
The importance of sample transportation is evident from the fact that without it, patients at the last mile may not get access to vital medical care that they need. Additionally, timely and efficient sample transportation can lead to faster diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of various diseases.
R4H remains committed to its goal of supporting sustainable development and promoting health and wellness in underserved communities. R4H will continue to work collaboratively with health facilities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure that its transport program is effective and sustainable.
