On July 11th, 2023, Gradian Health Systems donated three Intensive Care Ventilators (ICVs) to Muhimbili National Hospital in an effort to further access to intensive care in Tanzania. The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from Muhimbili National Hospital, members of the media, and Gradian Health Systems, marking the beginning of a partnership with a shared mission to improve access to critical care across the country.
Prominent figures from Muhimbili National Hospital, Executive Director, Professor Mohamed Janabi, and Dr. Rache Mhaville, the Director of Surgical Services, spoke at the event. Representatives from various media outlets, including the Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation, Daily Newspaper, and other digital media platforms, were also present.
Gradian Health Systems’ donation of three ICVs is poised to have a meaningful impact on patient care at Muhimbili National Hospital. These ventilators will play a crucial role in treating critically ill patients and strengthening the hospital’s capacity to provide intensive care. Professor Janabi highlighted that these machines arrived at a pivotal time and will significantly contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.2.1 – reducing infant mortality.
SDG 3 aims to reduce preventable deaths among newborns and children under five years old by the year 2030. By supporting this goal, the donated ICVs will be instrumental in providing critical care to more than 1,000 children born with low birth weight, who often face respiratory challenges and other serious health issues at Muhimbili Hospital. Moreover, the World Health Organization has strongly advised reserving ten percent of hospital beds in Tanzania for critically ill patients. As a result, there is an urgent need to provide 150 beds, equipped with lifesaving breathing assistance machines, at Muhimbili Hospital.
This donation exemplifies Gradian Health Systems’ long-standing partnership with the Tanzanian government. For over a decade, Gradian has worked closely with healthcare providers in Tanzania, designing and implementing user-centric solutions to address healthcare technology gaps, clinical training needs, and technical support services. Gradian’s network of clinical trainers at Muhimbili has also played a pivotal role in enhancing the capacity of healthcare providers across the country.
Beyond the equipment donation, Gradian Health Systems is committed to providing technical and clinical training for the specialists who will be operating the ventilators. Additionally, the company will preventatively maintain the equipment over the next five years to ensure the seamless operation of the equipment. The combination of equipment and support services aligns with Gradian Health Systems’ broader vision of empowering healthcare teams to deliver high-quality, safe care to millions of patients across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
During his speech, Professor Janabi praised Gradian Health Systems’ model of product and capacity building, encouraging other organizations to follow their lead in supporting Muhimbili National Hospital’s requirements. It’s important to note that approximately 40% of patients treated at the hospital are unable to afford their medical care, emphasizing the ongoing need for assistance from corporate entities and philanthropic partners.
As the positive impact of this partnership unfolds, there is hope that other organizations will be inspired to follow suit and contribute to fulfilling Tanzania’s healthcare needs. By working together, we can create a healthier and more resilient future for all.
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