Nobuhle Vanessa Gxekwa Tuks Undergraduate Research Forum (TURF) student lead, has emerged as a co-author of a recently published research article, titled “Barriers and enablers for implementation of digital-linked diagnostics models at point-of-care in South Africa: stakeholder engagement”, published in BMC Health Services Research. This achievement is a direct outcome of the the first REASSURED-d@UP research group research symposium, held in November 2022. Focused on lessons learned from COVID-19 concerning the implementation of diagnostics at point-of-care, the symposium served as a platform for meaningful engagement and collaboration among stakeholders.

Reflecting on her role in the research, Nobuhle expressed, ‘I was invited as a key stakeholder in optimizing the implementing digital-linked diagnostic models at point-of-care in South Africa. Optimizing diagnostic systems, particularly in resource-limited settings, is critical for efficient healthcare delivery’.

The study underscores the importance of streamlining processes and improving accuracy in disease detection, treatment allocation, and resource utilisation. Through meaningful multidisciplinary collaboration, including scientists, developers, policymakers, and healthcare professional, the study emphasises the integration of digital technologies to enhance access to disease diagnosis and healthcare services.

Engagement with stakeholders during the symposium, each an expert in their respective fields, highlighted the necessity of meaningful multidisciplinary collaboration among scientists, developers, policy makers and healthcare professionals or users of diagnostics. In an era where data science is reshaping healthcare, our study emphasized the importance of integrating digital technologies to improve access to disease diagnosis and improve access to healthcare.

Stakeholders’ perspectives prompted deeper exploration into addressing connectivity issues and developing user-friendly interfaces crucial for implementing digital-linked diagnostic models at point-of-care. Leveraging existing community outreach programs, particularly in underserved areas, became paramount for fostering familiarity and overcoming barriers such as fear of change and language differences.

Integrating digital-linked diagnostic models with existing healthcare systems has emerged as a crucial step. Nobuhle is part of the team that co-created and implemented the first online undergraduate health sciences applied research methods course, accessible to all University of Pretoria undergraduate students. This initiative aims to expose students to research methods across health sciences disciplines, fostering their ability to develop and lead transdisciplinary research projects under mentorship. The second module of the TURF undergraduate research methods course, focusing on the application of health research, plays a pivotal role in facilitating this integration process. The course concludes at the upcoming TURF symposium, which will be held on the 5^th of April at the Faculty of Health Sciences. The symposium will provide students with the opportunity to present their planned research projects as a follow-up to the course.

Nobuhle’s reflections on the study insights, combined with her experiences in Turf’s research methods course, have alid a solid foundation for her future research endeavors. As she nears completion of her medical studies, Nobuhle expresses  ‘The insights gained from this study, combined with the knowledge acquired from our research methods course offered under TURF, have established a strong foundation for my future research pursuits. As I near completion of my medical studies this year, I feel well-equipped to initiate my research project, which I intend to carry into my medical specialist training. Our publication in a Q1 international journal signifies a meaningful dissemination of research findings to the scientific community and marks a significant personal achievement, being my inaugural scientific publication. I express sincere gratitude to my mentor, Professor Tivani Mashamba-Thompson, for providing me with this invaluable opportunity and exposure to high-caliber research. These experiences have equipped me with the requisite skills and confidence to embark on my journey as an emerging clinician-scientist, dedicated to effecting positive change in healthcare delivery’.