Through its Wireless Reach initiative, Qualcomm is equipping antiretroviral treatment (ART) centers with computers, software and wireless broadband connectivity based on CDMA2000® Rev. The project is also providing technical support, training, and capacity building to ensure long-term sustainability and promote scalability.
The newly installed software is designed to automate the manual reporting system for managing supplies of ARVs. These newly converted electronic reports can reach the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency quickly and efficiently, providing a more accurate inventory of ARVs in clinics and pharmacies. With the immediate increased efficiency and more accurate reporting, pharmacists are able to concentrate on more in-depth tracking of ART adherence and patient care. The upgrade will facilitate online reporting to KEMSA and improve coordination between the health care centers, the districts and the Provincial Medical Office (PMO).
The project implementation is being managed by RTI, along with the PMO, and will make use of open source software designed by RTI, which is derived from the manual recording system for managing antiretrovirals throughout Kenya. The new system will be adapted for use in the health centers.
Capacity building will also be provided for trainers who will be responsible for teaching PC skills and the new software to health care workers at the ART sites. CCK will support the acquisition and installation of computer hardware and software, amongst other accessories, in five health facilities in accordance with the RTI specifications. Dell Inc. also provided Vostro desktop computers and peripherals as a donation in support of the project.
The long-term goal is to produce a software and communication system that is locally sustainable and scalable to other health centers within Nairobi and other provinces. Ultimately, the same system could be extended to manage all pharmaceuticals.
