Design, implementation and outcomes of a national oxygen distribution network in Lesotho
This study demonstrates the feasibility of an oxygen distribution network in Lesotho, providing proof-of-concept for an intervention to improve oxygen access in low- and middle-income countries. By employing real-time monitoring and redundant sourcing, the network provided a reliable oxygen supply responsive to variations in demand and periods of oxygen plant downtime. This study also provides insights into facility-level oxygen consumption, which may help policymakers improve quantification and prediction of oxygen demand. Future efforts should focus on enhancing data collection, characterising oxygen usage and strengthening infrastructure to promote sustainable oxygen security.
Authors
- Joia S. Mukherjee
- Juliana Lawrence (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7056-3795)
- Paul Sonenthal (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7622-7645)
- Melino Ndayizigiye (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7380-063X)
- Afom T. Andom (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9300-602X)
- Emily Gingras
- Ninza Sheyo
- William Haggerty
- Tiara Calhoun (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-4659-6714)
- Palesa Thabane
- Mphatso Tsoka
- Francis Sambani
- Tumelo Monyane
- Mpho Pholoanyane
- Jessica Parker
Institutions
- Brigham and Women's Hospital (US)
- Partners In Health (US)
- Harvard University (US)
- National University of Lesotho (LS)
Publication Details
- Journal
- BMJ Global Health
- Published
- 2025-03-01
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2024-016607
- Primary Topic
- Respiratory Support and Mechanisms
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00