Kenya: Healthcare Sector Leaders Advocate for Connectivity to Improve Patient Outcomes and Reduce Costs

M-Tiba, a leading healthcare app, has called upon the government to harness the power of technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), within the healthcare sector to enhance connectivity and reduce healthcare costs.In a statement issued recently, M-Tiba expressed confidence that embracing and integrating these advancements into the healthcare sector will enable healthcare facilities and insurers to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and elevate the overall customer experience.

By leveraging AI and other cutting-edge technologies, healthcare providers can optimize resource allocation, improve diagnostic accuracy, and enhance patient care delivery. Additionally, the integration of digital solutions can facilitate seamless communication and data sharing among healthcare stakeholders, leading to more coordinated and personalized care.M-Tiba's advocacy for the adoption of technological innovations underscores the transformative potential of digital solutions in revolutionizing the healthcare landscape. Through strategic investments in AI and other digital technologies, the government can unlock new opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and accessibility within the healthcare sector, ultimately improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare disparities across the nation.

According to M-Tiba Managing Director Pieter Prickaerts, technological advancements in the healthcare sector will play a pivotal role in enhancing transparency in health coverage and driving increased insurance uptake.By leveraging innovative technologies such as AI, healthcare providers can streamline administrative processes, facilitate real-time access to healthcare information, and improve the overall efficiency of insurance operations. This transparency not only fosters greater trust between insurers and policyholders but also empowers individuals to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

Furthermore, the integration of technology into healthcare systems can help overcome traditional barriers to insurance uptake by making coverage more accessible and affordable. Digital platforms can simplify the enrollment process, provide personalized insurance options, and offer convenient access to healthcare services, thereby encouraging more individuals to invest in health insurance.Prickaerts' insights underscore the transformative potential of technological advancements in driving positive change within the healthcare industry. By embracing innovation and harnessing the power of digital solutions, stakeholders can work together to create a more transparent, inclusive, and efficient healthcare ecosystem that benefits individuals, insurers, and healthcare providers alike.

"With the technology, innovation, and capabilities we already have, I firmly believe we can significantly increase insurance uptake from just 3% through collaboration," he said."For insurance companies, the connection with the individual means there is real-time customer feedback and real-time data insights, enabling them to better serve their customers. Ultimately, translating to easier access to care for individuals," he added.According to Catherine Bosire, Managing Director of Wingspan Consultancy, the healthcare sector in the country faces a shortage of expertise in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Therefore, she suggests that partnerships with specialists in this field are necessary to address this gap effectively.

Echoing this sentiment, Kanyenje Gakombe, CEO of Metropolitan Hospital, emphasized the importance of enhanced connectivity in the healthcare sector. He believes that improved connectivity will lead to more effective solutions, simplify the healthcare journey for patients, and unlock opportunities for stakeholders to benefit from advancements in technology and data."Collaboration unlocks a greater potential. By working together, we will simplify the healthcare journey, deliver solutions more efficiently, and leverage a more connected network of data and technology.

This will allow all stakeholders to unlock opportunities to benefit the patient, without having to reinvent the wheel independently," stated Gakombe.These statements underscore the importance of collaboration and partnership in driving innovation and improving healthcare delivery. By leveraging the expertise of specialists and fostering connectivity among stakeholders, the healthcare sector can enhance patient care, streamline processes, and capitalize on the opportunities presented by advancements in AI and technology.