The Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), has introduced Self-Service Kiosks at the Central and Campus Laboratory located in Kalingalinga and Ibex Hill to speed up the process of booking for the Covid-19 PCR test.

In its continued efforts to improve access to quality health care through innovative capacity development, the client wait time has been reduced, as clients are now able to book online for their Covid-19 PCR test using the link https://cidrz.timetap.com and select a time slot as well as their preferred sample collection centre to go to.  

This process is completed in a matter of three to four clicks. Further the system sends an email or SMS to the client at least 2 hours to the appointment time, to remind the client of the appointment and enable them to plan their time well.

Upon arrival at Central or Campus Laboratory, the clients can utilize this newly introduced Self-Service Kiosks to confirm their booking details and obtain a laboratory order number to present to the cashier when making payments. Clients that have not pre-booked using the online system can still use the kiosk to enter their details ahead of payment and will instantly get a confirmation slip with the order number on it.

The newly introduced Self-Service Kiosk has eliminated the need for clients to enter details multiple times on paper. Once the client books online or enters the information on the self-service terminal, they will not be required to provide the same data again.

This helps with reduced time spent waiting, as well as reduce infection rate that may arise from contact with such items as pen and paper. Less time waiting means less time of exposure to potential Covid-19 infection. 

Currently, the Self-Service Kiosk will be piloted only for clients that want to carry out Covid -19 tests for both travel and routine test checkup. In future, CIDRZ intends to make all its lab services available on the Self-Service Kiosk.