DIGITAL HEALTH - Ministry of Health pilots national ID requirement for services in Karonga
As a stride toward embracing digital technology, the initiative aims to streamline access to healthcare services and enhance efficiency in health service delivery.
Karonga, May 8: The Ministry of Health has announced plans to pilot the use of national identity cards as a requirement for accessing healthcare services in selected areas of Karonga District. This initiative aims to streamline access to healthcare services and enhance health service delivery efficiency.
Kennedy Kanyimbo, Chief Digital Health Officer at the Ministry of Health, revealed this during a District Executive Committee (DEC) meeting held on Tuesday. He emphasized the need for modernization in the health sector and highlighted the potential benefits of utilizing national identification cards for client identification.
"The adoption of national identity cards in healthcare services will revolutionize client information management. This innovative approach will expedite client registration and prevent duplication of services, thereby promoting efficient utilization of healthcare resources," said Kanyimbo.
The pilot phase will commence with several health facilities, including Chilumba Rural Hospital, Chilumba Barracks, Nyungwe Health Centre, Karonga District Hospital, and Kapolo Health Centre. Karonga District was selected for the initial pilot phase due to its high number of people with national identity cards.
Cosam Munthali, Executive Director of Foundation for Community Support Services (FOCUS), commended the ministry for the initiative but stressed the importance of addressing potential challenges that may arise during implementation.
"This is a step towards modernization and efficiency in healthcare delivery. However, it is crucial to anticipate and mitigate any obstacles that may impede the initiative," said Munthali.
The Ministry of Health aims to extend the program to other districts across Malawi following a successful pilot phase in Karonga.
SOURCE - Malawi News Agency, reported by Wakisa Myamba