Not-for-profit
Year launched: 2008To build, deploy and maintain innovative, robust and sustainable healthcare information systems suitable for the developing world in collaboration with government and healthcare workers.
Baobab's innovations include software development, touch screen computers, bar codes, and the use of alternative energy sources in health facilities around the country. The most notable of these include Boabab's development of low-cost and long-lasting power back-up systems, touchscreen-based user interfaces designed for users with limited technology experience, and low-cost information appliances that are significantly more robust in harsh environments than are traditional computers. Baobab Health’s systems have allowed 1,000,000 + sessions for 18,000 patients on Antiretroviral therapy across 6 sites, 800,000 patients registered across 5 sites, 160,000 HIV testing and counseling sessions across 5 sites, and 185,000 x ray/ultrasound investigations throughout Malawai. Baobab has selected PC-based touchscreens from global manufacturer, J2 Retail Systems. The J2 580 has been selected as its clinical workstation. This fanless machine, connected to a barcode scanner and printer, is deployed in each ward including the TB patient ward, and is linked to the HIV ART Clinic.The information system records, tracks and manages in-patient care and appointment data. In addition, the touch-screen computers will guide health workers and nurses through WHO and Malawian MOH approved guidelines for dealing with HIV/AIDS. The patient registration system allows all patients to be recorded with relevant details. Using a unique barcode for each, it identifies patients so that their records can be retrieved from the system in future visits by simply scanning the barcode. In addition, the system interfaces with the Baobab Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART) Clinic application. By providing information on patients who are or who have been on such treatment, the system aids doctors in their diagnosis and prescription.
