To combat the resurgence of COVID-19 in Nigeria, healthcare specialists have recommended an indigenous tech solution, Myclinic.ng, that enables families and individuals to access high-quality healthcare from anywhere, anytime, in cost-effective and convenient manners using the mobile phone.

The number of people who died of COVID-19 in December has doubled compared to the figure in November, amid a second wave of the pandemic in Nigeria while more states continue to take stricter measures to halt the spread of the virus.

With support and endorsement of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), a team of Nigerian technicians, entrepreneurs, medical doctors and pharmacists recently launched Myclinic.ng. It is a technology built on the conviction that access to healthcare should not be stressful or ridiculously expensive but convenient and affordable.

Speaking on the potential of the mobile app, Executive Director, FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS) and former Chief Medical Director, Kubwa General Hospital, Dr Ahmed Danfulani, said the mobile app would reduce overcrowding at healthcare centres and the attendant risk of contracting infections in populated areas.

“It is gladdening to learn that a sick patient can consult a medical doctor through a phone application, an online platform developed by Nigerians. In a current worrisome situation of the resurgence of COVID-19, such an on-demand doctor’s app can reduce physical movements of patients as it provides prompt consultation, guidance on medical tests, e-prescriptions, and with medicine delivery.”

Dr Danfulani who is a renown Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon, urged the promoters of the healthcare app to ensure that the backend and the services provided are efficient and effective.

“While it is a welcome development, the backend especially the doctors and other personnel should ensure they respond promptly and responsibly to the enquirers and patients. The system should be flawless and excellent in terms of its usability, security functionality and ethical values.”

Speaking in the same vein, Managing Director Ace Pharmacy, Chibuzo Ezeani, said the mobile app could promote safe home delivery of medical services while reducing physical movements and crowding that could expose people to infections.

Ezeani, who is also a Pharmacist said: “Myclinic is an excellent innovation in the healthcare system considering the fact that people are afraid of exposure. The app will aid in minimising contacts and unnecessary exposure. This novel development can also improve the efficiency of in-home delivery of prescribed drugs without going to any pharmacy.”

Meanwhile the co-founder of Myclinic App, Mr. Abubakar Hassan told the Economic Confidential that the online consultation platform allows patients from anywhere and anytime to talk to doctors online or through its toll-free line.

He said: “Anyone having any kind of health issue or a sick patient will be able to consult a medical doctor through a phone application. With the information provided, doctors can remotely diagnose patients and all necessary action will be taken.

He said that since the launch of the service, some private sector players have provided their clients' access to qualified medical doctors from the comfort of their homes to help reduce the spread of Covid-19.

“We have grown 400% in the last quarter with over 10,000 subscribers. We are glad that the application is helping in curbing the spread of Covid-19 by providing access to remote medical consultation to Nigerians. This reduces the number of patients going to primary healthcare facilities and consequently, reduced the chances of exposure.

“We have also doubled the size of our team, employing young intelligent and passionate Nigerians. Apart from patronage from individuals and private sectors, JAIZ Bank provided its clients to enjoy the service as we also won a grant of $30,000 from the JICA Business Plan Competition. These provide us with further opportunity to improve our product and offer better service to our users.” (PRNigeria)

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