Enhancing Children’s Cancer Diagnosis at QECH through Technology

The tragic challenges faced by families during children’s cancer diagnosis at QECH, such as prolonged wait times and procedural issues, have been ameliorated by the 2023 donation of a chemistry analyzer from NBM plc. This machine has significantly reduced the wait time for diagnosis, allowing for more timely and accurate results, thus improving patient management. Continuous support for healthcare resources is essential to ensure equitable cancer care in Malawi.

The prospect of a child undergoing a cancer diagnosis at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) can be incredibly daunting for parents. Typically, it takes one to two days for the diagnosis to occur, which is exacerbated by the fact that the hospital possesses only one machine for these diagnoses. Additionally, some families are informed their child must repeat the procedure due to lost samples, creating further anxiety as their child’s health declines during the waiting period.

These challenges were prevalent in the Child Cancer Ward prior to the generous donation of a chemistry analyzer by National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc in 2023. This new machine provides accurate results that aid in the early detection of cancer, significantly improving the diagnostic process. In Malawi, approximately 500 children are diagnosed with cancer each year, with QECH averaging 20 to 30 new patients each month.

In early February, coinciding with World Cancer Day under the theme ‘United by Unique’, the Children’s Cancer Ward celebrated a successful year and two months with the chemistry analyzer. The donation has decreased the diagnosis time to within one to two hours, greatly improving both the emotional and operational aspects of care for affected families. Dr. Beatrice Chikaphonya Phiri, a Pediatric Oncologist at QECH, expressed gratitude for the improvement in their work processes.

Dr. Phiri noted, “Usually, we would send the samples to the main lab, and sometimes the lab did not have reagents to do kidney or liver function tests. But now, you can get the results in one or two hours, and at least we know we get results that are reflective of the state in which our patients are at that point.” This advancement has streamlined operations, allowing for a more accurate and efficient assessment of patient needs.

In agreement, Dr. Nthambose Simango, a registrar in the Pediatrics Department, highlighted the past challenges of laboratory overloads and reagent shortages that often delayed necessary treatments. “Having this machine in the department has enabled us to have consistent availability of those tests, and we can manage our patients throughout the year,” stated Dr. Simango.

Nevertheless, she emphasized the ongoing need for a steady supply of reagents and a mobile X-ray machine, citing the difficulties in transportation for critically ill children. George Jobe, Executive Director of the Malawi Health Equity Network (MHEN), acknowledged the significant progress made with new equipment.

Advancements like the chemistry analyzer mark a substantial improvement in healthcare capability over the last two decades. Akossa Hiwa, Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager at NBM, remarked on their commitment to sustainable community investment that yields a positive impact, affirming the continued relevance and importance of their contribution.

The theme for this year’s World Cancer Day underlines the significance of collective action in managing cancer, emphasizing that every journey with cancer matters. This ongoing commitment to improving care for young patients reflects a larger effort towards equitable healthcare across Malawi.

In summary, the donation of the chemistry analyzer by NBM has substantially improved the diagnostic process for children’s cancer at QECH, significantly reducing wait times and enhancing the accuracy of results. The collective efforts of healthcare professionals, along with continued support and investment, highlight the importance of sufficient resources to effectively manage pediatric cancer care. Moving forward, the integration of additional medical equipment will further strengthen healthcare services for children in Malawi. The theme of ‘United by Unique’ serves as a poignant reminder of the shared human experience in battling cancer and the need for solidarity in providing quality care for all affected families.

Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com