Extending The HIV Case Tracking System to Improve Accuracy, Minimize Duplicate Data, and Enhance Art Program Efficiency Across Multiple Testing Facilities in Kigali
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This project aims to address the issue of false increases in the number of HIV-positive cases by expanding the HIV case monitoring system for ARV patients across multiple testing sites, improving reporting and planning capabilities. Currently, the system may mistakenly identify the same individual as a new case across different facilities due to repeated testing, leading to inflated case numbers and inefficient allocation of resources. For instance, a patient who tests positive at one medical facility is assigned to an ART treatment and social assistance. If the same person tests again at a different site, the system records them as a new case, causing discrepancies in patient tracking. The proposed system will integrate testing sites, enabling accurate identification and centralized data sharing, thereby eliminating redundant records and ensuring better continuity of care. The study focuses on healthcare facilities in Kigali City, including Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Kigali (CHUK), Nyacyonga Health Center, Gatenga Health Center, and Rugarama Health Center. A random sample of 400 participants, including doctors, nurses, and referred patients, was selected to provide insights into the current system’s challenges. Data analysis was conducted using frequency tables and percentages. The results highlight the need for an expanded HIV case monitoring system to support retesting across multiple facilities. After the implementation of the system, the number of individuals accurately identified across these facilities increased, ensuring each patient’s data is consistently updated and tracked. For example, before the solution, patients were often duplicated across sites, with over 2,000 individuals spread across multiple facilities without clear identification. Post- implementation, each person is now accurately tracked, ensuring that resources are allocated more efficiently, and care continuity is improved.
Authors: Bigenimana Joseph, Bugingo Emmanuel, Tunezerwe Emmanuel
Institution: University of Kigali
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4410164101