🇿🇼ZimbabweSouthern Africa
Zimbabwe transitions to digital X-ray systems, improving diagnosis and reducing wait times
via NewsDay Zimbabwe5 min read
Zimbabwe is upgrading its healthcare infrastructure by transitioning from analogue to digital X-ray systems, with 31 new digital machines already installed nationwide. This move aligns the country with global health standards and aims to enhance service delivery. Bernard Kwaramba, an X-ray operator at Hauna District Hospital, reported a significant increase in patient capacity, from an average of 10 to over 20 per day, with faster result turnaround times due to the elimination of chemical development and physical film. Acting Manicaland provincial medical director, Cephas Fonte, highlighted that digital X-rays are more reliable than their analogue predecessors, which frequently broke down. The new digital systems allow for immediate transmission of images to clinicians, facilitating quicker reviews and diagnoses. Fonte also noted the integration with artificial intelligence for diagnosis and the use of GeneXpert machines for rapid detection of drug-resistant or drug-sensitive tuberculosis, further improving diagnostic speed and accuracy while reducing costs. This high-tech equipment was procured through the COVID-19 Response Mechanism C19RM, supported by the Global Fund and the United Nations Development Programme UNDP. UNDP resident representative, Ayodele Odusola, praised the partnership for strengthening Zimbabwe's health system and translating global financing into tangible community-level impact. Since 2020, Zimbabwe has received over US$180 million via The Global Fund’s
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.
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