The M-PESA Foundation, in collaboration with Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation, is leveraging technology to bridge the healthcare gap in Kenya.
Their Daktari Smart program has connected over 9,500 patients in underserved counties to specialists, while medical camps have enrolled over 20,000 people on a platform for virtual consultations and follow-up care.
Launched in late 2021, Daktari Smart is a telemedicine program operating in Baringo, Homabay, Lamu, Samburu, and Narok counties. This program connects patients in these areas with specialists at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital.
Unlike traditional video conferencing, Daktari Smart utilizes a special kit containing electronic medical devices like stethoscopes, vital signs monitors, and ultrasound machines. This allows healthcare workers at local facilities to conduct examinations and transmit real-time data (including sounds) to specialists at the hospital, enabling more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
In addition to Daktari Smart, the M-PESA Foundation organizes medical camps in various counties.
Through these camps held in 12 counties, over 20,000 people have been enrolled on Zuri Health’s platform, enabling them to access virtual consultations and follow-up care with doctors for up to six months after the camp. This platform allows communication via SMS and WhatsApp, and users can add up to three dependents to receive free medical advice.
Partnerships and Future Expansion
The positive impact of these programs was highlighted at a recent forum organized by the M-PESA Foundation to celebrate World Health Day.
Discussions focused on further leveraging technology to expand access to quality healthcare across Kenya.
Karen Basiye, Executive Director of the M-PESA Foundation, stated, “Our goal is to scale up telemedicine and expand its reach to additional counties in the coming years. This forum provided a valuable platform to strengthen existing partnerships and explore new opportunities for leveraging technology to improve healthcare access.”
