Smart Applications International, a healthcare technology firm, has launched innovative solutions aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and improving access to quality healthcare services nationwide.
Among the innovations is the Comprehensive Hospital Management Information System (HMIS) and a smart access mobile application, which have been implemented across more than 4,600 healthcare facilities throughout the country. These advancements are designed to expedite patient processing and treatment times.
The mobile application enables easy identification of patients covered by medical insurance or corporate healthcare plans, streamlining access to services. The platform leverages the existing biometric identification infrastructure already deployed nationwide by the company. Harrison Muiru, the Chief Executive Officer of Smart Applications Group, stated that the smart access platform is fast and efficient, eliminating the need for facilities to spend time contacting insurance companies for beneficiary verification. Additionally, the service can be accessed through a USSD code for patients without smartphones.
Upon a patient’s arrival at a healthcare facility, the system promptly identifies their insurance coverage and enables the hospital to provide the appropriate services based on the contract parameters with the insurer.
Muiru expressed the company’s commitment to developing patient-centric solutions, acknowledging the government’s efforts to scale up e-health initiatives. During the inaugural Health Service Providers Summit in Kisumu, Muiru highlighted that the smart access system would enhance consistency in medical records, leading to improved treatment outcomes.
Purity Njagi, Head of Product Delivery and Support at Smart Systems International, explained that the mobile application allows principal beneficiaries to authorize others to receive services without being physically present at the facility. By sharing a generated short code, caregivers can access services on behalf of the beneficiaries.
Ester Macharia, Head of Hospital Operations, emphasized the company’s collaboration with healthcare facilities to enhance their processes and improve the overall patient experience. As part of this effort, the firm has developed the Comprehensive Hospital Management Information System (HMIS), a comprehensive solution that manages various aspects of healthcare facility operations, including inventory and financial records, to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.