The Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) has commenced the nationwide rollout of tablet devices in clinics. This initiative aims to streamline patient test result retrieval. NIP’s CEO, Kapena Tjombonde, announced this initiative during a media engagement in Windhoek. It aims to reduce waiting times for patients.
“Once tests are completed, NIP will notify the clinics. The results will be automatically uploaded to the system. They will be accessible via the tablets we are installing across the country,” Tjombonde explained.
To date, 170 tablets have been deployed in remote public health facilities. There are plans to distribute an additional 209 tablets. This will bring the total to 379 tablets.
“The NIP plays a crucial role in healthcare. About 70% of medical decisions are based on laboratory results,” Tjombonde added. He emphasized NIP’s significance in the health system. With a staff of 501, the NIP conducts approximately 3.9 million tests annually.
This tablet rollout is part of NIP’s broader five-year Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP), known as the “Za Tuka Strategy.” This plan focuses on enhancing operational efficiency, profitability, and service delivery. “Za Tuka,” meaning “the plane has taken off” in Rukwangali, symbolizes NIP’s determined path to success, despite challenges.
“Though the journey has been turbulent, we remain committed to improving operational efficiency and building a future-ready NIP. Our focus is on people, processes, and technology,” Tjombonde said.
Beyond the tablet initiative, NIP is upgrading its infrastructure and equipment. Tjombonde announced plans to open a Centre of Excellence (COE) next year. This center will address the current lack of local paternity testing. Currently, DNA tests, priced at around N$1,200, are sent to South Africa for analysis.
“We have redesigned our operating model and are establishing Centres of Excellence in selected regions,” she added.
NIP’s Chief Operations Officer, Vincent Nowaseb, highlighted that in April, NIP transitioned to a new web-based laboratory information system. This system provides instant access to patient results via mobile devices.