Noncommunicable diseases—such as hypertension and diabetes—account for nearly 80% of deaths in low and middle-income countries, including Kenya. These chronic conditions often go undetected and untreated, placing a heavy burden on patients, their families and health systems. Chronic disease care is especially challenging in underserved and rural communities where access to specialists is limited.
Learning Across Distance, Building Confidence in Chronic Disease Care
Project ECHO helps frontline health care workers meet this challenge by connecting them with specialists and peers through a virtual, case-based learning ECHO Model. Community clinicians share real patient cases, receive expert guidance, and learn updated approaches to managing chronic disease. “There are things you may not have seen, you will learn from it,” shares Dr. James Akiruga Amisi, a participating clinician. Project ECHO bridges the knowledge gap and empowers providers to confidently provide chronic disease care.
Dr James Akiruga consults with a patient at Milo Hospital in Webuye, Kenya. Photo Credit: Kabir Dhanji, Kivuli Creative, May 28, 2025.
Improving Lives in Underserved Communities
By focusing on shared learning, connection, and practical solutions close to home, Project ECHO is helping patients live healthier, longer lives. Dr. Amisi reflected, “If we are able to teach more people to address health problems and reduce the burden of suffering in communities and in people’s lives, then what else do you want in life?”
For more information, email Project ECHO or read more stories about Project ECHO in Africa. To learn about AMPATH, the Project ECHO partner featured in the video, visit their website.
*Featured Image Credit: Burness Communications, May 2025.
