Importance of innovation in medical healthcare technology

The 7th World Healthcare Students Symposium (WHSS) is set to kick off with a strong focus on fostering innovation in medical healthcare technology. The event aims to bridge the gap between researchers, students, and policy makers in the healthcare sector. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Shakila Umutoni, the Public Relations Officer at WHSS, and Professor Kayumba Claver, Co-Principal of the EAC Regional Center of Excellence for Health Supply Chain Management, shed light on the importance of innovation and collaboration in the healthcare industry. One of the key highlights of the symposium is the hackathon designed to spur the development of affordable medical technologies. Shakila mentioned that they are collaborating with Kantek from Uganda to facilitate the medical hackathon. Various partners, including Babu, will present challenges to students, encouraging them to come up with innovative solutions and prototypes in a span of three days. This initiative not only fosters creativity but also provides a platform for students to address real-world healthcare issues. The conversation also touched upon the intersection of healthcare and information technology (IT). Professor Claver emphasized the potential for monetizing IT solutions in the healthcare sector. With Rwanda leading the way in promoting IT in healthcare, the symposium serves as an opportunity for clinicians to explore and apply their IT interests in a practical setting. By bringing together students from different countries, the event aims to encourage industry partnerships and knowledge sharing. In the realm of digital disruptors and investments, Professor Claver highlighted the importance of collaboration across borders. He stressed the need for countries to harmonize their efforts in disease prevention and immunization. The symposium serves as a platform for sharing best practices and addressing gaps in healthcare systems to achieve better outcomes collectively. The discussion also delved into the challenge of disseminating critical healthcare information effectively. Professor Claver mentioned a training program for trainers from six countries to enhance their skills in managing vaccine supply chains. This cascading approach aims to spread knowledge and ensure that vital healthcare information reaches a wider audience. Financing remains a crucial aspect of the healthcare sector, with different countries adopting various models. In Rwanda, a performance-based financing system incentivizes healthcare providers based on the volume of care provided. This innovative approach encourages healthcare professionals to deliver quality care and drive revenue generation for hospitals. Despite the enthusiasm and ideas generated at the symposium, the journey from concept to implementation poses a significant challenge. Shakila highlighted the importance of translating discussions and recommendations from the event into practical changes in healthcare systems. While implementation may take time, she underscored the value of persistence and gradual progress in effecting meaningful transformations. As the WHSS prepares to commence, the focus on innovation, collaboration, and practical solutions shines through. The symposium serves as a crucial platform for nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders and driving positive change in the global healthcare landscape.