How COVID-19 caused an upsurge in the number of healthcare startups.
The African healthcare landscape which had been growing at its own steady pace saw accelerated development during the COVID-19 pandemic. Salient Advisory discovered that 60% of 1276 health-tech startups operating in Africa were founded within the last five years.
22% of all the companies tracked were founded during the 2020 pandemic, marking the year as one of a surge in innovation. Entrepreneurs found opportunities to fill critical gaps, with online pharmacies and delivery companies making sure users retained access to medical supplies. Telemedicine innovators also opened channels for remote consultations, helping to relieve pressure from swamped healthcare facilities and providers.
Healthcare technological innovation seems to be concentrated in Nigeria and South Africa, which represent two of Africa’s largest tech ecosystems. These two account for 46% of identified health startups, with Kenya and Egypt trailing close behind. Some of these healthcare startups may are:
DRO Health
DRO Health is a Nigerian digital health platform that offers telemedicine services, online consultations, and prescription delivery. By connecting patients with qualified healthcare providers, DRO Health aims to bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare access.
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Vezeeta (Egypt)
Vezeeta (Egypt) is another prominent healthcare startup. As an online appointment booking platform, Vezeeta allows patients to schedule appointments with doctors and clinics, reducing waiting times and improving efficiency. This startup also offers telehealth services and medical information.
Zuri Health
Zuri Health is a leading digital healthcare platform in Kenya that aims to revolutionize the way healthcare services are accessed and delivered. The platform offers a comprehensive suite of services, including online consultations with qualified doctors, prescription delivery, and health information resources.
Zuri Health leverages technology to connect patients with healthcare providers, reducing the need for physical visits and improving accessibility, especially in remote areas. By providing affordable and convenient healthcare solutions, Zuri Health empowers individuals to control their health and well-being.
Medsource
Medsource is a healthcare technology company based in Nigeria that specializes in developing innovative digital solutions to improve healthcare delivery. The company offers a range of products and services, including electronic health records (EHRs), patient management systems, and telemedicine platforms.
Medsource’s EHRs help healthcare providers streamline clinical workflows, manage patient data efficiently, and enhance the overall quality of care. Their telemedicine platform enables remote consultations between patients and healthcare providers, expanding access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved regions.
HealthPlus, Goodlife Pharmacy, Medplus
HealthPlus, Goodlife Pharmacy, and Medplus are African retail pharmacies and medical diagnostic centers. These companies provide a range of healthcare products and services, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and laboratory tests. They are focused on ensuring the availability of essential medicines and improving healthcare accessibility in Nigeria.
ComPharm
ComPharm is a leading pharmaceutical distribution company in South Africa that specializes in providing essential medicines to healthcare facilities across the country. The company has a vast network of distribution channels, ensuring timely and reliable delivery of drugs to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
ComPharm works closely with pharmaceutical manufacturers to source high-quality medications at competitive prices, making them accessible to patients in need.