How Health Tech Companies are providing affordable access to health care in Nigeria

Health technology according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) is the “application of organized knowledge and skills in the form of devices, medicines, vaccines, procedures, and systems developed to solve a health problem and improve quality of life”

In Nigeria, like in many other advanced countries, the importance of health tech in providing easy access to health care cannot be overemphasized. In this interview, Temitope Deyeye, an expert in the Health Tech industry speaks with our correspondent on how health tech companies are providing affordable access to health care in Nigeria.

Temitope Deyeye is a Sales Executive in one of the leading health tech companies in Africa. She has risen through the ranks with expertise in Business

Development and Customer Success Management. Her drive is to ensure every Nigerian has access to primary healthcare.

What is the essence of Health Tech in Nigeria?

The need for affordable and accessible healthcare has become increasingly important with Nigeria’s exponential growth and Health Insurance has proven to be a safe way to meet this demand.

More Nigerians are now seeking coverage to ensure access to quality healthcare services when needed, creating a unique opportunity for health tech companies to provide innovative solutions to improve healthcare access and delivery.

According to a report by the National Bureau of Statistics, only about 5% of Nigeria’s population has access to health insurance coverage. This is due to a lack of awareness about health insurance, lack of adoption at the state government level, high cost of premiums, failure to mandate enrollment for the entire population, and a limited number of health insurance providers.

However, there has been a growing number of health insurance alternatives in the labour market in recent years, with more employers recognizing the importance of providing health coverage to their employees.

  Technology is crucial in enhancing health insurance by creating a comprehensive healthcare solution for Nigerians. They can then be used to create platforms that allow users to access health insurance plans, schedule doctor appointments, order prescription medications, and access telemedicine services from the comfort of their homes.

There has been a rising demand for health insurance in the Labour market, what triggers this?

The rising demand for health insurance in the labour market is a welcome development. The need for health insurance can be attributed to several factors peculiar to Nigeria’s healthcare system.

One of the major reasons for the increase in health insurance demand is that it is becoming more affordable. In the past, health insurance was seen as a luxury that only the

wealthy could afford.

However, with the emergence of insurtech companies and several efforts by the state government to establish state health insurance schemes in an attempt to achieve universal coverage, health insurance is becoming more accessible to Nigerians. This means that more people can now afford to protect themselves and their families against unforeseen medical emergencies.

Another factor driving the growth is the increase in chronic diseases in Nigeria. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer require continuous medical attention, which can be expensive. Health insurance provides a safety net for individuals with these ailments by ensuring that they have access to the care they need without worrying about the financial burden

Lastly, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of having health insurance. The pandemic has affected millions globally and strained healthcare systems worldwide. In Nigeria, the pandemic exposed the inadequacies of the healthcare system and has shown that having health insurance is critical as it provides individuals with access to medical care during emergencies, including pandemics such as COVID-19.

How do you think Technology is Enhancing Health Insurance in Creating an All-In-One Solution for Nigerians to Access Good Health Care?

Technology has revolutionized several sectors globally, and the healthcare sector is not left out. It enhances health insurance in Nigeria by creating an all-in-one solution for Nigerians to access sound healthcare through the following:

Firstly, health insurance companies can create digital platforms for their customers. These platforms allow customers to access insurance policies, make claims, and track their medical history. It eliminates the need for physical paperwork, making the process seamless and convenient for customers.

Secondly, technology has enabled health insurance companies to leverage data analytics to provide personalized care to their customers. With data analytics, insurance companies can

analyze customer data to identify high-risk individuals and provide preventive care to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Lastly, technology has made it possible for health insurance companies to partner with healthcare providers like pharmacies, hospitals, laboratories etc. to create a network of healthcare facilities. This network allows customers to access quality healthcare at an affordable price, receive medical advice, and access telemedicine services.

How are Health Tech Companies Embracing Technology to Provide Health Solutions?

Several health tech companies in Nigeria are embracing technology to provide health solutions to Nigerians. One of such company is Reliance Health. Reliance Health is a health tech company that uses technology to provide affordable healthcare to Nigerians. The company’s digital platform allows customers to access medical care conveniently. The company also partners with healthcare providers to create a network of healthcare facilities where customers can access quality healthcare services. The company’s platform also provides customers with health tips and wellness programs to promote healthy living.

Another one is LifeBank. LifeBank is a medical distribution company that uses technology to connect blood banks to hospitals in Nigeria. The company’s app allows hospitals to request blood and other medical supplies and delivers them to the hospitals

What are your closing thoughts on the healthcare industry in Nigeria?

The emergence of health insurance in Nigeria is a step in the right direction towards providing quality healthcare to Nigerians. The rising demand for health insurance in the labour market can be attributed to several factors, including affordability, the increase in chronic diseases, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also, technology is enhancing health insurance in Nigeria by creating an all-in-one solution for Nigerians to access sound healthcare. With the adoption of technology, health insurance in Nigeria is becoming more accessible, and affordable.