Urologist Workforce and Services in Ethiopia
Anteneh Tadesse Kifle1, Chandra Shekhar Biyani2, Jacques Bogdanowicz3
1Department of Surgery, Mudulla Hospital, Po Box 16, Snnpr, Ethiopia. antyeneh@gmail.com.
World Journal of Surgery
|September 8, 2023
Summary
Urology services in Ethiopia face challenges due to limited advanced equipment and few specialists. While most urologists perform open surgery, a majority also offer endourology, though access to specialized tools like Flexible UreteroRenoScope (URS) is scarce.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Surgical Innovation
- Healthcare Access in Developing Nations
Background:
- Urological conditions significantly impact quality of life and productivity.
- Urological treatment has historically lacked priority in global health initiatives.
- Sub-Saharan Africa predominantly relies on open surgeries, limiting access to minimally invasive procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the socio-demographics of Ethiopian urologists.
- To outline the services provided by these urologists.
- To assess their access to essential endourology equipment.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among members of the Urology Society of Ethiopia (USE).
- Data was collected on urologist qualifications, practice scope, and equipment availability.
- A response rate of 76.5% was achieved with 33 out of 43 urologists participating.
Main Results:
- Most urologists (66.7%) completed residency in Ethiopia; 21.2% had fellowship training abroad.
- All respondents perform open surgeries, and 75.8% offer endourology.
- While basic equipment like video endoscopes and cystoscopy sets are available, advanced tools such as Flexible UreteroRenoScope (URS) and laser lithotripters are least accessible.
Conclusions:
- Urology in Ethiopia is nascent, facing significant hurdles.
- A shortage of qualified urologists and advanced medical equipment impedes service provision.
- Improving access to endourology equipment and training is crucial for advancing urological care.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
14
A healthcare provider can diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI) through several methods:Medical History and Symptoms: The provider will take a detailed medical history and ask about symptoms such as frequent urination, burning sensation during urination, and lower abdominal pain.Urinalysis: A clean-catch urine sample is collected in a sterile container and tested for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells (leukocytes), nitrites, blood, and protein. The presence of leukocytes and...
14
01:28Urologic Endoscopic Procedure: Cystoscopic Examination
46
Meaning of Cystoscopic Examination:Cystoscopy is an essential diagnostic tool in urology that is used to assess the structure and function of the genitourinary system. It provides a direct view of the urethra, bladder, and, in some cases, the ureteral openings. This procedure helps detect structural abnormalities, infections, cancers, and blockages in the urinary tract. There are two types of cystoscopy:Flexible cystoscopy is commonly performed in outpatient settings due to its less invasive...
46
01:29Urine Studies I: Urinalysis
38
Urinalysis is a widely used diagnostic test that analyzes urine's physical, chemical, and microscopic characteristics. Healthcare providers use it to detect and monitor various health conditions, including renal disease, urinary tract infections (UTIs), diabetes, and metabolic or systemic disorders.Components of UrinalysisUrinalysis consists of three primary components: physical, chemical, and microscopic examination. Each provides unique insights into the urine sample and, by extension, the...
38
01:21Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System I: Health History
27
The genitourinary system is critical to maintaining fluid balance, waste elimination, and reproductive function. Nurses play a vital role in assessing this system, beginning with a thorough health history. This process involves gathering patient information, identifying risk factors, and recognizing symptoms of genitourinary disorders. Early detection is vital for timely interventions and management.1. Gathering Patient InformationA complete health history includes the patient’s personal,...
27
01:26Urine Studies II: Urine Culture and Sensitivity Test
52
A urine culture and sensitivity test is a diagnostic procedure used to identify urinary tract bacterial infections and determine the most effective antibiotics for treatment. This test is generally preferred when a patient shows manifestations of a urinary tract infection, such as frequent or painful urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, or lower abdominal pain.Purpose of the TestThe primary goals of a urine culture and sensitivity test are to:Determine the specific bacteria causing the...
52
01:22Ureters
551
The ureters are retroperitoneal tubes located on either side of the vertebral column. They are responsible for transporting urine from each kidney to the urinary bladder. These tubes have thick walls and are approximately 25-30 cm long. Their diameter is around 10 mm at the renal pelvis, gradually narrowing to 1 mm as the ureter obliquely enters the posterior bladder wall through the ureteric orifices. The shape of these orifices is slit-like, which helps to prevent urine backflow toward the...
551