Improving Injury Care Coordination in Rwanda
Author Information
Author(s): Nishimwe Aurore, Davies Justine, Byiringiro Jean Claude, Bekele Abebe, D’Ambruoso Lucia, Ignatowicz Agnieszka, Alayande Barnabas Tobi, D’Arc Nyinawankusi Jeanne, Uwitonze Jean Marie, Sindikubwabo Jean Nepomuscene, Bagahirwa Irene, Inkotanyi Collins, Jayaraman Sudha, Belli Antonio, Rickard Rob, Nuhu Assuman, Sheferaw Ephrem Daniel, Quiin Laura, Rukundo Gilbert, Muhire Philbert, Munyura Oda, Hagenimana Fabien, Hagumimana Didier
Primary Institution: University of Birmingham
Hypothesis
Can a Destination Decision Support Algorithm (DDSA) integrated into an electronic platform improve injury care service coordination in Rwanda?
Conclusion
The study aims to develop and evaluate a system that links injured patients to the nearest appropriate health facility, potentially reducing delays in care.
Supporting Evidence
- Delays in reaching hospitals can increase avoidable deaths and disabilities.
- 40% of deaths after injury are avoidable due to delays in care.
- The DDSA aims to connect patients to the nearest hospital ready to treat them.
Takeaway
This study is about creating a smart system to help ambulances take injured people to the right hospitals faster, which can save lives.
Methodology
The study will develop, train, and evaluate a DDSA using qualitative and quantitative methods, including workshops and testing against historical data.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from reliance on expert opinion in a low-resource setting.
Limitations
The study may face challenges due to the likely lack of high-quality data in Rwanda and the dynamic nature of software development.
Participant Demographics
The study will involve urban and rural populations in Kigali City and Musanze District, Rwanda.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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