German based pharmaceutical firm Boehringer Ingelheim in partnership with PharmAccess have launched a free app Afya Pap through Tiba Yako programme that will enable diabetes and hypertension patients in treatment and management of the diseases.
The new program is aimed at addressing an unmet need for efficient affordable and widely accessible care for hypertension and diabetes in Kenya
Patients are empowered through digital technology as the app supports access to care through a mobile health wallet, M-TIBA, and enables them to manage their disease from home through digital tools.
Practically the program allows patients to monitor their blood pressure and blood glucose levels at their convenience at home, digitally sending the results to their doctor for review.
The program aims to provide care and access support for hypertension and diabetes care in the mobile wallets of low income patients, which they can use to co-pay for care at selected clinics in Nairobi, Kiambu and Vihiga counties.
Isaiah Okoth, PharmAccess country director, said the app would enable people with diabetes and hypertension manage the disease.
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“Access to phone and mobile phone penetration in the country is high and so we will also be able to have real-time data on use of mobile technology and how it can be used to manage chronic diseases,” he said.
“Self-monitoring of blood pressure and sugar levels at home can improve treatment adherence and outcomes in patients with hypertension and diabetes, this app will improve access to care for patients in the local community,” said Ayman Issa, the head of the pharma’s Africa operations.
Over 50% of patients with diabetes or hypertension are not aware of their diagnosis, and many have scarce knowledge of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) or are not compliant with treatment. Chronic diseases such as diabetes have serious implications if left uncontrolled, including microvascular damage to blood vessels, and microvascular damage to eyesight, nerves and feet
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