Integrated transformational and sustainable sample transport (intrassat) - in response to the critical need for efficient diagnostic sample referral and transportation in cameroon, our consortium,…

Integrated transformational and sustainable sample transport (intrassat) - in response to the critical need for efficient diagnostic sample referral and transportation in cameroon, our consortium, comprising crihss foundation (CF), georgetown global health nigeria (gghn), and the clinical and laboratory standards institute (csli), proposes to collaborate with the government of cameroon, civil society organizations, and other CDC and non-CDC projects and funded organizations to establish an integrated and sustainable sample transport system in the country. The integrated transformational and sustainable sample transport (intrassat) project builds upon cameroon's strides in HIV response, particularly through pepfar-supported programs. Our primary objective is to streamline existing fragmented systems into a cohesive, efficient network that ensures the integrity of diagnostic samples and test results throughout their journey. Our approach prioritizes country leadership, evidence-based strategies, and robust central and regional coordination. IT is underpinned by modern technology for monitoring, evaluation, and continuous improvement. Project implementation will follow a stepwise process, leveraging insights from landscape assessment to transform historically fragmented sample transportation systems (STS) into an integrated and efficient sample referral/transport network that is functional and sustainable. Additionally, the project will build capacity for STS resilience and strengthen biosafety, biosecurity, and logistics infrastructure within the system. Leveraging electronic tracking technology like EN-LIS and strac, the project will monitor performance, engage stakeholders, and address system gaps quickly. Furthermore, IT will ensure equity and inclusivity, by prioritizing community involvement, addressing stigma and discrimination, and tackling health disparities at every phase and process of implementation. By aligning with national strategies, leveraging existing and new infrastructure, and fostering stakeholder engagement at national and subnational levels, these collaborative endeavors are anticipated to bolster country ownership and sustainability while gradually increasing the volume of samples collected and tested over time. We further anticipate notable reductions in the turnaround time (TAT) of results for clinical decision-making, a decrease in patient visits to health facilities, expedited art initiation or regimen changes for patients, and a decrease in sample rejections in reference laboratories. Additionally, the intrassat project's approach is expected to facilitate the decentralization of services, address existing inequities and gaps in the system, and improve VL, EID, and TB service delivery and outcomes.