Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize the way we live our lives, and one sphere that promises to benefit enormously from the power of AI is healthcare accessibility.
In South Africa, a country with the highest Gini coefficient in the world, a significant portion of the population experiences limited access to medical services due to geographical, economic, and social barriers. However, AI and telehealth services can help play a significant role in leveling the playing field.
Start-ups like Eagle Intelligent Health are harnessing this potential to take steps toward democratizing access to healthcare, ensuring it becomes both accessible and affordable for all. Arvind Raichur, Co-Founder and CEO of Eagle Intelligent Health, expresses his belief that “In the next five to ten years, there will be an increased adoption and utilization of AI-enabled technology in healthcare, enabling physicians and the entire system to deliver improved care.”
Affordability remains a critical challenge in South Africa’s healthcare landscape too. The high cost of medical consultations, diagnostic tests, and medications often prevent individuals from seeking timely care. However, AI-powered healthcare platforms like Eagle Intelligent Health have the potential to disrupt this paradigm. With AI-powered healthcare, South Africans would be able to access healthcare at a fraction of the cost. By eliminating the need for physical infrastructure and streamlining processes, AI not only reduces overhead costs but also helps increase the accuracy and quality of care, making healthcare services more affordable for both patients and providers.
In addition to healthcare, there are several other initiatives in South Africa that aim to make AI more accessible and affordable. For example, start-ups like Botlhale AI are working to increase the application of AI systems in South Africa, including making them available in African languages. In terms of affordability, ChatGPT Plus, developed by Open AI, is now accessible in South Africa for a monthly subscription of $20 (R358).
By leveraging AI technology, South Africa can bridge the healthcare access gap, make healthcare more affordable, and empower both healthcare professionals and patients. The potential for a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system is within reach, and the time to embrace AI for accessible and affordable healthcare is now.