Digital Diagnostics Summit 2023: A New Era of Speed and Access in African Pathology
At the foot of Mt. Kenya, the second Digital Diagnostics Summit showcased breakthrough innovations in digital pathology and remote reporting.
The second Digital Diagnostics Summit, hosted in the scenic town of Nanyuki at the base of Mt. Kenya, brought together healthcare professionals, technologists, and thought leaders to explore the future of diagnostics in Africa.
Organised by The Pathology Network (TPN), the 2023 summit built on the momentum of last year’s event, reaffirming its role as a leading platform for shaping Africa’s diagnostic future. With attendees joining from across Kenya, the United States, Spain, and Uganda, the event sparked meaningful dialogue on how digital diagnostics can address long-standing healthcare challenges on the continent.
Spotlight on Digital Pathology Innovation
This year’s showcase featured a practical demonstration of remote reporting systems and advanced scanning technology, highlighting their applications in both urban and rural hospital settings. Attendees had the opportunity to compare several state-of-the-art digital pathology scanners used at Aroha Cancer Centre Ltd, including:
Grundium Ocus-20
Motic Pro-6 from Motic Digital Pathology
Microvisioneer Manual Scanning System
Each system presented distinct advantages and limitations, sparking useful discussions on adaptability, affordability, and scalability in resource-limited environments.
Transforming Diagnostic Timelines
A defining moment of the summit was the official launch of a 3-day histology diagnostic service for the central Kenya region. Traditionally, patients in Kenya may wait over three weeks to receive a pathology diagnosis—delays that can postpone essential surgical treatment.
For the past year, TPN has offered a 7-day remote histology service. Now, through the collective efforts of the TPN team and Aroha Cancer Centre Ltd, the diagnostic window has been reduced even further—an achievement that promises to accelerate clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.
Special recognition goes to Michelle Mumbi, Jannine Law, and the entire operational and clinical teams, including Rukia Kibaya and Gitonga Milcom, for their leadership in bringing this service to life.
Acknowledging the Contributors
The summit was made possible by the active participation of hospitals, surgeons, pathologists, and laboratory professionals who continue to pioneer innovation across the region.
Notable contributions came from:
Professor Lucy Muchiri, who introduced the concept of diagnostic stewardship and will support TPN’s continued efforts in quality management systems.
Emmanuel Muhimbura, who traveled from Uganda.
International guests and remote participants from the US and Spain, including Xavier Farre, Marleen Groen, and Francis O. Ondieki, MBA, whose insights enriched the sessions.
Looking Ahead
The Pathology Network is committed to building scalable, tech-driven solutions that reduce diagnostic delays and improve health outcomes across Africa. With growing momentum, the next Digital Diagnostics Summit is expected to bring even greater innovation and collaboration to the forefront.
Explore how TPN is building faster, smarter diagnostic systems across Africa.
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