By Michael Gwarisa
In a move set to revolutionize healthcare access in rural communities, the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), with support from UNDP Zimbabwe, has installed a new X-ray machine at Mutawatawa District Hospital in Mashonaland East.
The new X-ray machine replaces the outdated analogue system, significantly improving healthcare access by providing timely and accurate medical imaging. This advancement reduces the need for patients to travel long distances to urban centers for X-ray services.
Speaking to HealthTimes, Dr. Gladman Mubonani, the District Medical Officer for Mutawatawa said the new machine will benefit people from Uzumba, Maramba, and Pfungwe (UMP), as well as others from outside the district.
Mutawatawa District Hospital is the only hospital in UMP, and the X-ray machine is expected to serve a population of approximately 140,000 to 150,000 people,” said Dr. Mubonani.
He confirmed that the machine is already operational and is a modern, fully equipped system with air conditioning and other essential functionalities.
“This machine can produce images continuously without any problems. It has a fully functional air conditioning system that ensures high-quality output within a short time. We previously relied on an old analogue machine that used film technology, but it has now been replaced with this advanced digital system.”
To address ongoing power challenges, a dedicated solar backup system has been installed specifically for the X-ray machine.
“They had to repurpose the entire room, including the ceilings, floors, and electrical system. The installation also included a power backup system in the form of solar energy,” he added.
To bridge the radiographer shortage in the country, some staff members at the hospital have been trained by technicians to operate the machine.
“We have two medical doctors and another staff member who have been trained to operate the machine. We started offering services to the public last Thursday,” Dr. Mubonani said.
