The Center for Health System Stregthening, launched a pilot sample referral system (SRS) in two regions of Ghana (Northern and Greater Accra), mapping healthcare facilities and establishing mini and main hubs for efficient sample transport. Despite successes, challenges arose in identifying labs capable of testing transferred samples, impeding smooth processing and result communication.
CfHSS has received funding from Grand Challeges Canada, and aims to conduct a study on Improving Access to Epidemic Prone Infectious Disease Tests through Strengthening of the Sample Referral System in Ghana using Mobile-Based Application. Grand Challenges Canada is funded by the Government of Canada and is dedicated to supporting Bold Ideas with Big Impact® . This funding is being provided as part of a collaboration with Grand Challenges Senegal.
On February 27, 2024, a stakeholder engagement event took place at the Regional Health Directorate in the Northern Region of Ghana, marking the first significant step forward in enhancing the sample referral system (SRS) within the country, which will be followed by rider training and subsequent commencement of the study.
Figure 1: From stakeholder engagement to rider training to the initiation of the study.
The event brought together key stakeholders including the Director and Deputy Director of Public Health; Dr. Abdulai Abukari, Dr. Paul Hilarius Abiwu respectively and laboratory personnel. The purpose of the event was to discuss the effectiveness of a mobile and web-based app in supporting the SRS.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Abdulai Abukari, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in strengthening public health infrastructure, particularly in the context of infectious disease surveillance and response. Participants, including healthcare practitioners, laboratory personnel and policymakers, gathered with a shared commitment to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the SRS.
One of the key highlights of the event was the explanation of the app’s functionalities, illustrating how it will streamline the process of sample referral, tracking, and communication of test results once it is fully developed. The stakeholders, expressed enthusiasm about the potential of the app to reduce turnaround time for laboratory results, enabling quicker decision-making and more timely public health interventions.They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the scaling up of the app in the region, with a focus on ensuring equitable access and sustainability.
This engagement served as a catalyst for continued collaboration and action towards advancing the sample referral system in Ghana. With ongoing commitment and concerted efforts, the Centre for Health System Strengthening is confident that the mobile and web-based app will prove instrumental in strengthening the country’s public health infrastructure and enhancing the well-being of its citizens.
Engaging the Director (Left) and Deputy Director (Right) of Public Health
The Director and Deputy Director engaging the Stakeholders
Engaging the Stakeholders on the Interface of the App
