Zim Expands Telehealth Services to Improve Healthc...

Zim Expands Telehealth Services to Improve Healthcare Access

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

Zimbabwe has established 25 telehealth facilities as part of a national initiative to improve healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas. The program, which aims to set up 185 sites, is expected to transform healthcare delivery through digital solutions.

The newly launched facilities include five standalone kiosks in Nyanga, Chikomba, Maria Theresa Clinic in Chiweshe, Pricade–Sherwood, and Chirumanzu. Additionally, nine kiosks have been integrated into post offices in Mberengwa, Hauna, and Redcliff, while three booths have been placed in shopping centres at Kazozo, Bende, and Nhedzihwa. A nurse-led franchise model clinic, the Healing Family Clinic in Chikohwa, has also been introduced to provide essential medical services.

ZimSmart Villages Chief Operating Officer Tawanda Nyerere said the program seeks to ensure equitable healthcare access. He emphasized that quality healthcare should not be a privilege for a few but a right for all. The initiative aims to establish 1,080 sites, including 180 kiosks, each supported by five booths, to reach more people, especially in remote areas.

The program also includes wellness initiatives targeting corporates and schools for the early detection of chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and certain cancers. A digital wellness application has been introduced to monitor key health indicators, including heart rate, respiration, and cardiovascular risks.

The success of this initiative is already evident, with over 2,000 virtual consultations facilitated in the past eight months. More than 5,000 blood pressure and blood glucose checks have been conducted, while medical outreach programs have provided free access to doctors and medication, benefiting over 7,000 people.

The telehealth expansion aligns with national efforts to improve healthcare service delivery. The government is currently rolling out the Impilo Electronic Health Records system to 500 additional facilities by 2025. This system is expected to improve data quality and enhance decision-making in public health management.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has emphasised the importance of telehealth services in improving healthcare efficiency. Acting Permanent Secretary Munyaradzi Dobbie said the government is prioritizing digital health solutions to enhance service delivery. He highlighted telemedicine and telehealth capabilities as key priorities, particularly for multi-parametric telemonitoring of Covid-19 patient management through the establishment of virtual hospitals.

Director for Health Informatics and Data Analysis Simukai Zizhowa also underscored the benefits of digital transformation in the health sector. He described the implementation of the Impilo Electronic Health Records system as a major milestone that ensures even rural communities receive high-quality and efficient healthcare services.

To support these advancements, the Ministry has solarized over 1,000 health centres, ensuring uninterrupted power supply for critical operations such as vaccine storage and medical procedures.

Government and private sector stakeholders continue to explore ways to expand telehealth services, ensuring greater access to healthcare for all Zimbabweans. At the same time, the Health Workforce Strategy (2023-2030) is being implemented to address gaps in human resources within the health sector.