Study title: Improving Neonatal Care Quality in Zimbabwe & Malawi

Lead Resercher(s): Michelle Heys, Simbarashe Chimhuya, Msandeni Chiume-Kayuni

Funder(s): UNICEF, National Institute for Health and Care Research, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and Wellcome Trust

Partner(s): University College London, University of Zimbabwe, Kamuzu College of Health Sciences, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Neotree Charity, Global Health Informatics Institute, Imperial College London

Background

Neotree empowers healthcare workers to count and care for every newborn, particularly in low-resource settings. It addresses the high global neonatal mortality rate, with an estimated 6,500 babies dying in their first month of life. The primary goal is to improve the quality of care and equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to deliver proven interventions. The Neotree utilizes cutting-edge digital technology supported by extensive medical research.

Study Aim

• To revolutionize healthcare delivery by leveraging digital technology to enhance outcomes for newborns in resource-constrained settings.

Study Design

Implemented in neonatal wards in Zimbabwe and Malawi, the Neotree system consists of a tablet application (app) that doctors and nurses use to:

• Receive prompt clinical action alerts, ensuring necessary checks and tests are performed. It also facilitates quick feedback of lab results through laboratory integration.

• Guide diagnostic decisions and clinical management, helping identify potential risks and appropriate actions.

• Provide bedside and classroom education and training.

• Collect data, generate reports, and create dashboards. This reliable data can inform decision-making and identify areas for improving newborn care.

AI for SBI (Artificial Intelligence for Serious Bacterial Infection)

Duration