African healthcare platform Bisa gets its name from the Ghanian Twi word for "ask" and is available for iOS, Android and Windows Phone devices. The mobile app aims to make healthcare more accessible to the masses while addressing patients' privacy concerns -- especially those centered around sexually transmitted diseases which can have a stigma surrounding them.
Allowing patients to directly interact with medical experts via their mobile device, Bisa is ideal for those who are unable to afford regular doctor's office or hospital visits and works to offer quick diagnosis results of various issues while allowing for back to back conversations between a user and certified healthcare professionals. Once more info on a condition is garnered, Bisa users are able to access a database of local doctors should they require an in-person follow-up.
Overall, the startup believes that "healthcare is a basic amenity which everyone should be able to access and seeks to address this disparity in access to healthcare."
Accessible Healthcare Platforms
Bisa Aims to Make Care More Accessible and Private for Users
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Medical Consultations - The trend towards virtual medical consultations is growing in popularity with platforms like Bisa leading the way.
2. Mobile Healthcare Apps - The use of mobile healthcare apps like Bisa is increasing, making healthcare more accessible to people unable to afford regular doctor's visits.
3. Privacy-focused Healthcare Platforms - Privacy-focused healthcare platforms like Bisa are becoming more popular, particularly in areas where certain medical conditions carry a stigma.
Industry Implications
1. Telemedicine - Telemedicine providers can capitalize on the trend towards virtual medical consultations by offering secure and convenient access to healthcare professionals.
2. Healthcare Technology - Companies focused on healthcare technology can create innovative solutions like Bisa, focused on ease of use and accessibility.
3. Mental Health Services - Privacy-focused healthcare platforms like Bisa can be particularly beneficial for mental health services, where users may feel uncomfortable visiting a physical location or seeking advice from friends or family.