At Medtronic LABS, we do more than integrate digital tools into community health systems. Our mission is to transform and elevate community healthcare frameworks using cutting-edge technology and a patient-centric approach.
Through our Turambe initiative—Kinyarwanda for “Live Longer”—we’re actively supporting Rwanda’s key health strategies. We’re achieving this in collaboration with local stakeholders such as the Ministry of Health (MoH) and Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) and international partners like the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation.
We’re enhancing non-communicable disease (NCD) management and fostering robust community engagement with health workers and facilities. This commitment positions us to make significant, measurable differences in the lives of Rwanda’s underserved populations, and we look forward to the journey ahead.
Our Efforts in 2022 and What We’ve Been Working on in 2023
In 2022, our collaborative efforts with the Rwandan government and local stakeholders led to significant advancements in community health structures and government-owned NCD management processes. Here’s a quick look at the year’s highlights:
- Government Partnership & Ownership: In tandem with the MoH Information and Communication Technologies department and RBC, we enhanced the NCD management system, ensuring that it aligns with Rwanda’s national health strategies. Our main objective was to cement the government’s ownership of the initiative and work within their preferred frameworks.
- Case Management & Operations: With an emphasis on operational effectiveness, we formulated an NCD case management module tailored to meet Rwanda’s unique challenges. This module aimed at ensuring timely, effective, and comprehensive patient care within community settings.
- Strengthening Community Health: Thanks to an additional $300K in public sector funding, we expanded our reach, deepening our support for community health workers and patients. The essence of our approach is the symbiosis of global and local, harnessing international best practices while grounding them firmly in Rwandan community dynamics. This alignment facilitated our drafting of the National Community Guidelines for NCDs.
In 2023, we’ve been focused on scaling our impact. With our community-driven healthcare model, we’re on track to enroll over 20,000 more underserved patients facing hypertension and diabetes. Our target? Achieve disease control in half of these patients within their first enrollment year. Stay tuned for more updates on our progress.
Join Us in Shaping the Global Health System of the Future
Our work with Turambe goes beyond digital integration. We’re helping to shape a holistic, effective health management system in Rwanda, balancing tech advancements with patient and community focuses.
Want to learn more about Turambe and our mission to create a brighter, healthier future for Rwanda’s underserved communities? Click here.
At Medtronic LABS, we’re transforming health systems worldwide – explore our programs or contact us today to see how you can get involved.
