Retrospective program evaluation demonstrates enhanced surgical capacity through local training in rural Tanzania, suggesting effective solutions for underserved areas.
Key Points
This study aims to evaluate how a participatory approach can strengthen local capacity for paediatric surgery in rural Tanzania.
Conducted a retrospective program evaluation at a secondary hospital from 2016 to 2026.
Facilitated ongoing training, mentorship, and collaborative goal-setting for local healthcare providers.
Implemented remote consultation and empowered nursing staff to enhance surgical practices.
Paediatric procedures increased from 7.2% to 11.9% of total surgical activity (p<10-16).
General surgical and urological procedures saw a 102.4% increase.
Local surgeons now perform all procedures autonomously, despite persistent high neonatal mortality rates.