Our brilliant Bio-medical Engineer, Denis Cosmas Oloya, affectionately known as Koda, has developed a highly effective and cost-efficient slide dryer using locally sourced materials. This device, featuring a stainless steel heating element and a thermostat for precise temperature control, is housed in a wood frame, symbolizing resourcefulness and ingenuity.
Denis explained his innovation, “We strive to innovate and improve healthcare at every opportunity. I am thrilled to introduce our new slide dryer and how it works. It all starts with turning on the electric switch, which activates the heating of the stainless steel through a thermostat. This ensures a consistent and even heat distribution while precisely controlling the temperature. This setup allows for optimal drying conditions, safeguarding the integrity and accuracy of medical slides. The drying process is straightforward and efficient. Slides are placed on racks within the dryer. Once activated, the heating element warms the internal space, while the thermostat regulates the temperature. The warm air circulates, quickly and uniformly drying the slides, significantly speeding up the process.”
“What excites me most about this project is its cost-effectiveness. By using a few readily available materials that cost less than 300,000 UGX, we could save between 900,000 and 1,000,000 UGX compared to the cost of purchasing a new slide dryer. This approach not only reduces production costs but also provides a more economical solution for healthcare facilities,” he said passionately.
Denis joined St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor in 2006 as an electrician, with his education generously supported by the late Brother Elio Croce. Through dedication and hard work, Denis advanced in his studies to become the hospital’s bio-medical engineer, continuously sponsored by the hospital.
In the laboratory, the new slide dryer has been a game-changer. A laboratory technician explained, “The new dryer is cost-effective, easy to use, and highly durable, making our work more efficient and reliable.”
Denis’ ambitions shine brightly as he dreams of further innovations. He envisions developing on-the-go baby incubators powered by batteries with a span of 6 to 7 hours, aiming to improve the transportation of preterm babies from hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, Denis is exploring the creation of locally made centrifuges, demonstrating his continuous drive to enhance healthcare solutions with practical and accessible technologies.
At St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor, the spirit of innovation drives us. Our commitment to advancing healthcare is exemplified through groundbreaking projects, such as the local production of dialysis fluid-dialysate. Spearheaded by Dr. Daniel Oriba and his team, this initiative saved the lives of many patients with Acute Kidney Injuries (AKI) even before we acquired a dialysis machine, significantly enhancing our critical care capabilities.
St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor is more than just a place for healing; we are a hub of innovation, dedicated to improving healthcare through ingenuity and collaboration. With visionary minds like Denis and Dr. Daniel, backed by steadfast support, we are a dynamic force committed to shaping a future where innovation and healthcare go hand in hand, making a difference not just locally, but globally.
Denis explaining his invention to a Lab Technician
