How outdated technology is hurting Kenya's healthcare

The environmental footprint of outdated printers is also a significant concern for healthcare professionals. Around 80 per cent of the surveyed participants across the regions expressed personal worries about the sustainability of non-eco-friendly printers, while 75 per cent of Kenyan healthcare workers emphasized its importance to their organizations. Dr Lucy Mutara, CEO of Astradental Services Ltd in Nairobi, explained how her clinic has benefited from switching to Epson’s heat-free printers. “These printers help us reduce our carbon footprint by consuming less energy and reducing CO2 emissions,” she said. Her facility, which is 90 per cent solar-powered, aligns this practice with their commitment to sustainable energy under SDG goal 7.

Dr Mutara also shared that using Epson printers has proven to be both cost-effective and time-saving compared to the laser printers they previously used, which consumed more electricity. “Patient wait times in hospitals and clinics are the number one complaint in patient feedback," she noted. "Delays often come from waiting for referral forms, laboratory requests, admission forms, and prescriptions. In hospitals, one minute means a lot to patients and doctors."

James Osborne from Epson Europe urged healthcare leaders to take proactive measures. “It's crucial for healthcare leaders and IT managers to respond to these findings by upgrading their printing infrastructure to support better patient outcomes and operational efficiency,” he said.

According to the report, investing in efficient printing technology can make a substantial difference in both daily operations and patient care. By adopting more advanced printing technology, healthcare facilities can reduce downtime, streamline workflows, and allow staff to concentrate on their primary role of caring for patients.