Biotrack: Optimizing Sample Tracking
BioTrack is a web and mobile application designed to improve the tracking of samples within a national health system network, with a focus on Africa. The system provides full visibility and accountability for sample movement from peripheral health facilities/spokes, through hubs, districts, regional/provincial levels, up to the national reference laboratories. By digitizing the referral process, BioTrack strengthens diagnostic efficiency, reduces sample loss, and accelerates the return of test results to the point of care and accountability. Importantly, it also manages couriers and riders; including their bikes, vehicles, routes, and mileage, providing powerful tools for cost control and operational efficiency.
The Challenge
- Fragmented referral network; samples pass through multiple levels without visibility.
- Turn-Around Time (TAT) delays and frequent loss of samples.
- Undocumented and poorly managed repackaging and transfer of shipments.
- Limited oversight of couriers/riders, vehicles/bikes, routes, and mileage reports.
- The Impact: wasted resources, delayed diagnostics, and compromised patient care.
Our Solution
- End-to-end tracking of sample packages across all referral levels.
- Real-time TAT monitoring with automated alerts and reminders.
- Repackaging and transfer management for damaged or smaller shipments.
- Digital results return and physical results package tracking back to source facilities.
- Packages dispatch and receipt acknowledgement confirmations.
- Courier management (riders, vehicles, and mileage tracking).
- Decision dashboards for managers and policymakers.
The BioTrack system strengthens national laboratory networks and advances Africa’s vision for resilient health systems. It reduces costs, saves time, and ensures patients receive timely, reliable results. Ensuring no sample is lost, no delay goes unnoticed, logistical costs stay predictable, and every mile counts. It is a strategic enabler for universal health coverage, regional research collaboration, and evidence-driven policy.
