Delivering healthcare on wheels cutting down costs in Africa

The healthcare landscape in Africa is on the brink of a revolutionary transformation, fueled by cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions that are poised to significantly reduce costs and increase access to quality care. Private sector investments in the healthcare sector across the continent are paving the way for a new era of healthcare delivery. CNBC Africa recently sat down with Cynthia Karuri-Kropac, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at Safaricom, to delve into the role of technology in reshaping the future of healthcare in Africa. With the advent of digital technology, mobile devices have become increasingly affordable, with locally assembled devices in Kenya costing less than $50. This accessibility has transformed the phone into a crucial tool for providing both doctors and patients with easy access to healthcare services. The widespread coverage of 5G and 4G networks in Kenya, reaching nearly 97-98% of the country, ensures that cellular technology is readily available to anyone in need. The digitization of healthcare records mandated by the government further enhances the standardization of care, facilitating seamless continuity of care for patients transitioning between different healthcare providers and facilities. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare systems allows for more efficient resource allocation, symptom diagnostics, and timely referrals, ultimately reducing both costs and waiting times for patients seeking medical attention. Additionally, the emergence of new modes of healthcare delivery, such as mobile medical camps or 'hospitals on wheels,' leverages mobile technology and digitized care platforms to significantly lower the cost of patient interactions to as little as $10 per visit or $30 annually. These initiatives are making quality healthcare more accessible and affordable to a wider population in Africa. Looking ahead, Safaricom is committed to ensuring that citizens have access to affordable devices and connectivity, laying the foundation for the effective delivery of healthcare services. By partnering with the government to digitize hospitals and healthcare facilities, Safaricom aims to bridge the gap in access to quality care by enhancing connectivity and digitization in healthcare service delivery. The company is also focused on data privacy and security, working on building local data centers to host and maintain patient information securely. Collaborating with local and international partners, Safaricom is spearheading efforts to share healthcare trend information across borders, enabling early notification and coordinated responses to pandemics and outbreaks. The future of healthcare in Africa lies in innovative solutions that address challenges such as internet coverage and resource constraints. The concept of 'hospitals on wheels' represents a cost-effective and efficient approach to delivering healthcare to underserved populations, focusing on preventive care, health education, and data-driven decision-making. By redirecting resources towards local manufacturing of drugs and medical devices, African countries can reduce their dependency on imports and significantly lower the cost of healthcare delivery. The combination of technology, innovation, and collaboration lays the groundwork for a bright future of healthcare in Africa, where local solutions and capabilities drive sustainable healthcare practices and improve the overall well-being of the population.