TechDrive
In a country where access to healthcare is a major challenge, Sehat Kahani is emerging as a beacon of hope. Founded by Dr. Sara Saeed, this innovative health tech startup is using telemedicine to connect patients with qualified doctors, even in the most remote areas of Pakistan.
A Mission to Improve Healthcare Access
Dr. Sara Saeed, a medical doctor with a passion for public health, co-founded Sehat Kahani with the goal of making healthcare accessible to all. Recognizing the dire need for quality healthcare in Pakistan, she sought to bridge the gap between patients and doctors using technology.
“Our mission is to change the way health stories are written in Pakistan,” Dr. Saeed explained. “We believe that healthcare should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.”
A Unique Approach
Sehat Kahani’s approach is two-fold. In areas with limited smartphone penetration, the organization establishes physical clinics equipped with telemedicine technology. These clinics connect patients with online doctors, providing access to quality care even in remote regions.
For patients with smartphones, Sehat Kahani offers a mobile application that allows them to connect with doctors in just a few clicks. The app provides a convenient and affordable way to access healthcare consultations from the comfort of their homes.
Empowering Female Doctors
One of Sehat Kahani’s most significant achievements is its commitment to empowering female doctors. The platform provides a valuable opportunity for female physicians to return to work and contribute to healthcare delivery.
“We believe in the power of female doctors,” Dr. Saeed said. “By providing them with a flexible work environment, we’re helping them balance their personal and professional lives.”
Overcoming Challenges
Sehat Kahani has faced numerous challenges in its journey. From securing funding to overcoming societal biases, the team has persevered through it all.
“One of the biggest challenges we faced was convincing people that telemedicine is a viable alternative to traditional healthcare,” Dr. Saeed admitted. “Many people were skeptical about the quality of care that could be provided through a virtual consultation.”
However, Sehat Kahani has proven that telemedicine can be an effective tool for delivering quality healthcare. The platform has connected thousands of patients with doctors, providing essential care in areas where access to healthcare is limited.
Expanding Services
Sehat Kahani has continued to expand its services and reach. The organization has partnered with numerous government and private entities to provide healthcare to a wider range of patients.
- Government Partnerships: Sehat Kahani has collaborated with the federal government to provide free healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The platform has also partnered with provincial governments to expand access to healthcare in rural areas.
- Corporate Partnerships: Sehat Kahani has partnered with several large corporations to offer healthcare benefits to their employees. This has helped to increase the platform’s visibility and reach.
- Community Outreach: Sehat Kahani has conducted outreach programs to educate communities about the benefits of telemedicine and how to access the platform. These efforts have helped to increase awareness and adoption of the platform.
Future Plans
Sehat Kahani’s vision extends beyond Pakistan. The organization aims to expand its services to other countries in the region, bringing accessible healthcare to millions more.
“We believe that our model can be replicated in other developing countries,” Dr. Saeed said. “By leveraging technology, we can improve healthcare outcomes and save lives.”
Sehat Kahani is a shining example of the power of innovation and entrepreneurship to address pressing social issues. By providing accessible healthcare to millions of people, the organization is making a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals.
Additional Insights from the Interview:
- Overcoming Societal Biases: Dr. Saeed discussed the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs in Pakistan, including societal biases and stereotypes. She emphasized the importance of perseverance and determination in overcoming these obstacles.
- The Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic highlighted the need for accessible healthcare and accelerated the adoption of telemedicine services. Sehat Kahani played a crucial role in providing healthcare during this time.
- Future Goals: Dr. Saeed shared her vision for Sehat Kahani’s future, including expanding services to other countries and continuing to innovate in the field of healthcare technology.
- The Importance of Policy: She emphasized the need for a clear digital healthcare policy in Pakistan to regulate the industry and ensure quality standards.
This podcast provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the healthcare sector in Pakistan and the innovative solutions being developed by organizations like Sehat Kahani.
