Executive Summary

Sudan is currently facing one of the most severe healthcare crises in its history. The conflict that erupted in April 2023 has devastated the healthcare system, leaving over 65% of the population without access to essential medical care. With 70-80% of healthcare facilities non-operational and frequent internet outages compounding the challenges, the need for innovative solutions has never been more urgent.

In response to this crisis, the Digital Consultation Unit (DCU) Project by SMAfrica is a transformative solution aimed at bridging the healthcare gap. By integrating telemedicine and digital health tools into existing local healthcare facilities, we will ensure that healthcare providers in conflict-affected areas can connect remotely with senior medical professionals worldwide, bringing quality healthcare to those in desperate need.

About the Digital Consultation Unit (DCU)

The Digital Consultation Unit (DCU) is an innovative initiative by SMAfrica, designed to transform healthcare delivery in conflict-affected and remote regions. By leveraging telemedicine and digital tools, DCUs connect local health providers with senior medical professionals worldwide, ensuring quality care for underserved populations.

Why DCUs?

Sudan is facing an acute healthcare crisis, with the ongoing conflict severely impacting the country’s healthcare infrastructure. The Digital Consultation Unit (DCU) Project is designed to overcome these challenges and improve healthcare delivery in conflict-affected areas by:

  • Improving Access: Facilitating remote consultations between patients in underserved regions and senior healthcare professionals abroad, ensuring access to timely, high-quality care.

  • Enhancing Quality: Supporting accurate diagnoses and enabling effective treatment plans through real-time guidance from expert medical professionals.

  • Strengthening Infrastructure: Integrating electronic health records (EHRs) to enhance data management, improve disease surveillance, and ensure continuity of care.

  • Reliable Connectivity: Solar-powered systems and satellite internet (e.g., Starlink or other reliable services) to ensure uninterrupted healthcare service delivery in remote areas.

  • Capacity Building: Providing comprehensive training to local health workers and engaging the community to foster trust, encourage participation, and ensure the long-term success and impact of the project. (needs visuals)

  • ( An interactive map with potential piloting locations and statistics can be added)

Key Components

  • Telemedicine Consultations: Real-time patient care via digital platforms.

  • EHR Integration: Seamless data management and continuity of care.

  • Reliable Connectivity: Solar-powered systems and Starlink satellite internet.

  • Capacity Building: Training programs for local health workers and community members.

Impact Goals

  1. Improve Healthcare Access: Increase the availability of healthcare services by deploying Digital Consultation Units (DCUs) in local health centers, ensuring that remote communities can receive timely, high-quality care.

  2. Enhance Local Health Worker Expertise: Elevate the capacity of local healthcare providers through real-time guidance and mentorship from senior health professionals, boosting their ability to make accurate diagnoses and deliver effective treatments.

  3. Strengthen Healthcare Resilience in Sudan: Build a more robust healthcare system in conflict-affected regions by integrating telehealth solutions, electronic health records, and sustainable technologies, improving healthcare delivery during crises and preparing for future challenges. (visuals)

How It Works

Ensuring Security & Confidentiality of Health Records

To maintain the highest standards of privacy and data security, the Digital Consultation Units (DCUs) will integrate robust electronic health record (EHR) systems, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of patient data. These records will be protected using advanced encryption methods, complying with international privacy regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA. Our team will also implement secure access controls to ensure that only authorized personnel can view or update sensitive information, guaranteeing that all patient interactions are handled with the utmost confidentiality and security.

Project Partners

  • WAIPH (West African Institute of Public Health)

  • Sudan Telemedicine Clinic

Media & Updates

  • Coming Soon: Watch our DCU Project Simulation Video to see how this initiative is saving lives.

  • Follow us for real-time updates and success stories from the field.

Get Involved

How You Can Contribute

  • Funding Partners:

    • Provide financial support for establishing and scaling DCUs.

    • Fund training programs for healthcare workers and sustainability efforts.

  • Technology Providers:

    • Supply essential digital health tools and reliable internet connectivity.

    • Assist in maintaining and upgrading the technical infrastructure.

  • Healthcare Organizations and NGOs:

    • Partner with us to facilitate training, capacity building, and community engagement.

    • Contribute expertise in monitoring and evaluating project impact.

  • Community Leaders and Advocates:

    • Join our efforts to promote health education and awareness in your community.

    • Help us mobilize local resources and foster trust among community members.

  • Volunteers and Experts:

    • Offer remote consultations, advice, or mentorship to local health professionals.

    • Contribute to the development of clinical guidelines and training materials.

What You’ll Achieve Together with Us

  • Strengthen healthcare systems in vulnerable regions.

  • Save lives through timely and accurate medical interventions.

  • Leave a lasting legacy of hope and resilience for future generations.

Join us in making healthcare accessible to all. Whether as a partner, donor, or advocate, your support drives change where it’s needed most.

Contact Us

Via our Contact Page 

Or fill out this form to join us as a volunteer!