CIDRZ, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and key stakeholders, has continued to scale up access to care for severe and chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through its PEN-Plus clinics, already established in Matero, Mwachisompola, and Kapiri Mposhi.

Now, with the launch of a fourth clinic at Chifubu Level 1 Hospital in Ndola, supported by the Scottish Government, Zambia is taking yet another bold step in its mission to decentralise specialised NCD care and bring services closer to communities in need.

This expansion reflects a growing momentum in knowledge-sharing, capacity-building, and a nationwide commitment to bringing services closer to the people.

To support the rollout, experienced staff from established PEN-Plus sites were deployed to guide and support their Chifubu counterparts.
Sylvia Chileshe, a PEN-Plus Data Associate from Mwachisompola Level 1 Hospital, was among the support team that oriented data clerks at Chifubu Level 1 Hospital to using DHIS2, a digital system for capturing and managing essential patient information.
“We focused on hands-on training so that every patient who will be enrolled can be tracked, followed up, and supported. Accurate data helps improve treatment outcomes and follow-up care for people with NCDs,” Sylvia explained.
 Providing support to the clinical team, Siphatisiwe Siwawa, a Registered Nurse In charge of PEN-Plus clinic at Kapiri Mposhi District Hospital,  played a key role in orienting healthcare workers at Chifubu Level 1 Hospital on PEN Plus clinical care.
“We guided them on how to use the PEN-Plus master cards and ensure smooth patient flow from screening to follow-up. This ensures continuity and quality of care,” Siphatisiwe explained.
Among the newly trained staff at Chifubu is Nursing Officer  Ruth Nakawala, who has assumed the role of Provider Nurse within the PEN-Plus clinic.
Ruth expressed her excitement about her new role: “I am excited to be part of this initiative. I will actively identify eligible patients from the wards and the outpatient department for enrolment. I will also help track adherence through follow-up calls and appointment reminders. This will reduce missed visits and avoid unnecessary admissions,” she said.

She added that improving continuity of care will reduce complications and hospitalisations, especially for patients who previously had to travel long distances to access chronic care services.
 Chifubu Level 1 Hospital  PEN Plus clinic has already begun enrolling patients and is making a meaningful impact.
 
Among the first patients enrolled at Chifubu was Veronica Maela, an 18-year-old with sickle cell disease.
“I am so happy that the PEN-Plus clinic has started here at Chifubu Level 1 Hospital. I will now be coming here for my regular check-ups and to get my medication. It makes things easier for me,” she said.
The PEN-Plus model, supported by the Ministry of Health, CIDRZ, the Scottish Government and other partners, focuses on decentralising care for patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, sickle cell disease, epilepsy, hypertension, and more, bringing services closer to communities.