In the fiscal year 2023-2024, 27 out of 54 hospitals enrolled in the national hospital recognition program achieved Level II accreditation. This milestone was celebrated during the results dissemination event held on August 29^th 2024 at the Marriott Hotel in Kigali.

The accreditation program was launched in Rwanda since 2013 aims at enhancing the quality and safety of healthcare services. The program evaluates hospitals based on international standards to standardize practices, measure performance, and improve accountability.                                                                                                                                        Hospitals are recognized at three levels: Level I, Level II, and Level III. In this latest survey:                   Accreditation standards are aligned with international benchmarks, for this time it focused on key performance indicators which are: reducing maternal mortality, reducing post-cesarean section infections, reducing Neonatal mortality, reducing Neonatal birth asphyxia, increasing antenatal care rates.

• 1 hospital did not meet the criteria for Level I recognition.
• 26 hospitals received Level I recognition.
• 27 hospitals achieved Level II recognition.
• No hospital attained all performance indicators of Level III recognition.

Hospitals that maintained level II are: Butaro level 2-Teaching Hospital, Byumba level 2-Teaching Hospital, Gahini District Hospital, Kabaya District Hospital, Kacyiru District Hospital, Kibagabaga level 2-Teaching Hospital, Kibungo level 2-Teaching Hospital, Kibuye Referral Hospital, Kigeme District Hospital, Kirehe District Hospital, Masaka District Hospital, Muhororo District Hospital, Rwinkwavu District Hospital, Shyira District Hospital.

New Hospitals that achieved level II are: Bushenge Provincial Hospital, Gakoma District Hospital, Gisenyi District Hospital, Kabgayi level 2-Teaching Hospital, Kibilizi District Hospital, Kirinda District Hospital, Kiziguro District Hospital, Muhima District Hospital, Ndera Neuro-Psycatric Hospital, Nyamata level 2-Teaching Hospital, Nyanza District Hospital, Ruhango Provincial Hospital, Rutongo District Hospital.

Two hospitals namely Kacyiru District Hospital and Kigeme District Hospital are targeting level III with a progress of 50%+ and key performance goals 7+ score.                                                           The survey has also evaluated specialized orthopedic hospitals and recognized Inkurunziza, Rilima, and Gatagara hospitals at Level I.

The progress made reflects the concerted effort of all stakeholders and aligns with the National Strategy for Transformation (NST 2) which emphasizes the provision of quality services accessible to everyone. Notably, 54 hospitals participated in this survey, with some joining for the first time at some levels and others which are reaccredited.

Mr. Zachee IYAKAREMYE; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health emphasized that this survey represents a significant advancement in improving the healthcare system. He acknowledged the collective effort of all contributors and highlighted the role of well-coordinated leadership in these achievements.                                                                                        He recognized the importance of district administration in enhancing healthcare quality and emphasized the need for collaboration and coordination to boost efficiency and effectiveness. Medical staff should be clear about their roles and responsibilities, and regular evaluations are essential to track progress. Health counselors, who play a crucial role in grassroots health services, were also highlighted.

Dr. Maria Kabanyana USAID Rwanda Health System and service Delivery Team Lead highlighted the importance of meeting standards in hospitals and has congratulated the different development partners and healthcare provides to achieve more in health sector.

Accreditation is not a final goal but a continuous journey. Achieving a certain level is an accomplishment, but maintaining and surpassing it requires ongoing effort. Hospitals must work diligently to uphold their accreditation level and seek further improvements. Ongoing feedback from patients and effective communication between patients and healthcare providers are vital for further enhancing the quality of care.