Tanzania's ORCI Eyes International Accreditation to Become a Premier Cancer Care Hub

The Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) in Dar es Salaam is embarking on an ambitious journey to achieve international accreditation, strategically positioning itself as a leading healthcare destination for cancer treatment across the region. This move signifies a significant step towards enhancing the quality of care available to both local and international patients.

ORCI's Strategic Vision for Global Recognition

Dr. Diwani Msemo, the Executive Director of ORCI, has outlined the institute's objective to secure international accreditation within the next two to five years. This initiative is central to a broader vision for elevating cancer care standards in Tanzania.

According to Dr. Diwani Msemo, Executive Director of ORCI, "In the next two to five years, we want to have international accreditation. We will implement significant reforms during this period."

This strategic push coincides with a critical period of institutional development, underscored by the recent support from the Public Service Social Security Fund (PSSSF).

Catalyzing Modernization through Strategic Partnerships

The PSSSF recently demonstrated its commitment to improving national healthcare infrastructure by donating 361.5 million Tanzanian shillings (approximately 140,000 USD) to ORCI. This substantial contribution is specifically earmarked for the construction and equipping of a new, state-of-the-art cancer theatre room. This investment is timely, as ORCI prepares to launch its 2026-2030 strategic plan, which is designed to align its services with global benchmarks.

Dr. Msemo articulated the importance of these facility upgrades, stating, "This modern theatre and its equipment have come at the right time. We are preparing to begin implementing our 2026-2030 strategic plan, which is aimed at improving services to meet international standards."

He further acknowledged the PSSSF's vital role, expressing his appreciation: "Thank you for your decision to support our corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts. You have made the right investment, and you will not regret it because your contribution will directly impact the lives of Tanzanians."

Enhancing Patient Care and Service Delivery

A core component of ORCI's modernization strategy is the provision of comprehensive care, focusing on improving the efficiency and speed of surgical interventions for patients undergoing chemotherapy. The aim is to prevent delays and the need for external referrals, thereby streamlining the patient journey.

"We want to ensure that after chemotherapy, our patients can undergo surgery promptly, rather than being referred to other locations," Dr. Diwani Msemo elaborated.

While the Tanzanian government has made considerable investments in cancer treatment, Dr. Msemo highlighted that addressing the complexities of cancer care requires collective action from various stakeholders.

He emphasized the global nature of this challenge, stating, "Even developed countries rely on the support of various stakeholders in the fight against cancer. Cancer care is a cross-cutting issue requiring a global, multidisciplinary approach."

PSSSF's Commitment to Healthcare Investment

Last year, ORCI submitted a proposal to the PSSSF seeking additional support, which culminated in the recent donation. Fortunatus Magambo, Director General of PSSSF, underscored the fund's dedication to healthcare improvement through its corporate social investment policy. His remarks were delivered by Mr. Omega Ongole, PSSSF Head of Public Relations and Member Education.

Mr. Omega Ongole, PSSSF Head of Public Relations and Member Education, conveyed Mr. Magambo’s message: "Our policy aims to improve health issues, we are investing in both economic projects and corporate social responsibility initiatives."

Mr. Magambo also noted that the PSSSF’s investment in ORCI’s infrastructure and equipment aligns with its broader mission to support governmental healthcare initiatives. The specific allocation included 197 million Tanzanian shillings for renovation and 164 million Tanzanian shillings for the procurement and installation of medical equipment.

Mr. Omega Ongole, on behalf of Mr. Magambo, affirmed, "Today, we are happy to deliver 197m/- for renovation and 164m/- for the purchase and installation of medical equipment. This will make this theatre room a fully-fledged, advanced medical unit."

This investment is projected to directly benefit over 800,000 PSSSF members and their dependents by providing access to enhanced cancer care services. The renovation work is anticipated to conclude rapidly, ensuring that the public can promptly access these improved facilities.

Bottom Line

ORCI's pursuit of international accreditation, bolstered by strategic partnerships like that with PSSSF, marks a pivotal moment for Tanzania's healthcare sector. This concerted effort is poised to:

1. Elevate Quality of Care: Establish ORCI as a regional leader in cancer treatment, attracting international patients and fostering cross-border healthcare.
2. Enhance Patient Travel Options: Provide a robust local alternative, reducing the need for Tanzanian patients to seek treatment abroad and enhancing the country's appeal as a medical tourism destination.
3. Strengthen Public-Private Collaboration: Showcase the critical role of partnerships in addressing complex healthcare challenges and driving national development in wellness tourism.

This initiative not only promises advanced medical services but also solidifies Tanzania's growing reputation as a capable healthcare destination within East Africa.