Mulago Hospital Launches WhatsApp Bot for Remote Cancer Biopsy Results

Mulago National Referral Hospital in Uganda has launched an innovative WhatsApp notification system to streamline access to cancer biopsy results. This move aims to ease the burden on patients who previously had to visit the hospital repeatedly due to delays.

Dr. Sharif Musoke, an associate consultant pathologist at Mulago, developed the bot to tackle long waiting lines and prevent exploitation by individuals demanding payments for result checks. Patients simply message ‘Hi’ to a dedicated number, enter their lab number from the sample submission form, and receive an immediate status update.

If results are ready, the bot instructs patients to collect them in person. Otherwise, it suggests checking back after 24 hours. The system also flags unresolved issues or excessive delays, notifying the pathology team for quick resolution.

Historically, biopsy results take 3-5 days, but logistical hurdles often extend waits, especially for rural patients. Compared to up-country labs where delays can reach two months, Mulago performs better, though staff shortages remain a challenge. The hospital now targets a consistent three-day turnaround.

Dr. Musoke built the platform despite technical hurdles, including Uganda’s social media restrictions affecting WhatsApp integrations. After less than a month in operation, early feedback points to improved efficiency and patient satisfaction at the facility.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)