
“Health Pulse” is a periodic newsletter, bulletin and publication by ZimSmart that provides updates, insights, and health education, data, announcements, etc.
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The conceptualization of the ZimSmart Villages program began, building upon existing telemedicine efforts in Zimbabwe.
We initiated the year by pitching our innovative telehealth concept to the Minister and Secretary for Health and Child Care, alongside the submission of a
comprehensive operational framework for our telehealth facilities.
With crucial support from the Ministry of ICT, we successfully launched a proof-of-concept pilot in Chikomba District, a pivotal step in laying the groundwork for
national integration of our digital health solutions.
Our solution was showcased to government officials in Kwekwe, demonstrating its real-world impact. Later that month, the Health Ambassador officially launched our
program in Chiweshe, signifying a major transition from pilot phase to full national roll out.
We established the first five Health and Commerce Kiosks within post offices,
providing underserved communities with integrated access to diagnostics, virtual
doctor consultations, and last-mile medication delivery.
A media engagement workshop was hosted in Nyanga to raise awareness about our work among journalists and media houses, fostering broader understanding and support for our initiatives.
The first prototype of our telehealth booth was completed. This innovative design aims to further decentralize healthcare access by enabling setup within shopping centers, bringing essential services even closer to communities
ZimSmart Villages was invited to showcase its Booth model at the National Digital Health Indaba, highlighting our commitment to further decentralizing healthcare naccess. The Booth Model was subsequently launched in Nhedziwa by Senator Monica Mutsvangwa.
Our impactful work was recognized with prestigious awards,
including First Runner-Up at the National ICT Innovation Expo (POTRAZ) and the
National ICT Excellence Award for Best ICT Industry Disruptor 2024 (Ministry of ICT)
A significant partnership with the SAMP Group was
announced, poised to revolutionize healthcare in Zimbabwe. This collaboration aims to
establish 150 telehealth units and 750 booths in 2025, backed by an estimated investment of USD3.7 million.
As of December 2024, ZimSmart Villages has established 17 telehealth access points nationwide, with 12 operating within Zimbabwe Post Office facilities. We have facilitated over 1,500 telehealth consultations, 5,500 visits for blood pressure and diabetes checks, and at least 2,000 eye care consultations, significantly contributing to improved health outcomes in underserved communities.