USSD-based Telehealth

Primetel

USSD-based Telehealth

A mobile platform to enhance health service delivery in rural Tanzania

Arusha, Tanzania

TZA

Hybrid of for-profit and nonprofit

Tanzania is beset by a severe crisis of healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural Tanzania, where over 50% of citizens lack any stable access to healthcare. With a ratio of merely 1 doctor to 20,000 patients, individuals have to walk long distances to access a health facility, leading to late treatment and unnecessary fatalities. Mental healthcare in Tanzania is even more strained, with mental health disease burden increasing to 82% in just five years, still with resources severely lacking. In Monduli District, where Primetel operates, access to healthcare is below 50%, and more than 95% of the population are unaware that mental health services exist. The problem extends well beyond Tanzania, over 400 million in sub-Saharan Africa have restricted access to healthcare (WHO, 2023). As telehealth increases, solutions generally rely on smartphone app and internet, yet smartphones are only in the hands of 30% of Tanzanians and internet is unpredictably available in rural areas of the nation. Primetel is solving this crisis with USSD technology to provide telehealth consultations in the absence of smartphones or the internet. Our hybrid model combines digital health with in-field CHWs to ensure accessibility, trust, and cultural sensitivity. With geographical, economic, and technical barriers eliminated, we are transforming healthcare delivery for millions.

Primetel is an innovative telehealth platform that provides essential healthcare services via USSD technology, without the necessity of a smartphone or internet connectivity. As opposed to traditional app-based telehealth systems, Primetel provides universal access by enabling any mobile phone user to reach licensed medical doctors, mental health specialists, and community health workers (CHWs) through a simple shortcode (*149*46*22#). Mechanism of operation: 1. A patient dials the USSD code and selects the type of healthcare service needed—mental healthcare, primary care, or referrals. 2. The request is made, and the patient is matched with a healthcare professional for a virtual consultation via SMS or voice call. 3. In complex cases, Primetel's network of community health workers (CHWs) provides in-person follow-ups, referrals, and health education. 4. Insights from data from consultations improve service delivery, optimize patient outcomes, and inform better healthcare planning. Technology & Innovation: 1. Telehealth via USSD (can be used on any phone, no internet required). 2. Artificial intelligence-powered triage system (in development) to guide urgent cases. 3. Kobo Toolbox for real-time impact measurement and data analysis.

Primetel offers service to marginalized populations in Tanzania, particularly rural and semi-urban regions with severe barriers to the utilization of healthcare. Such populations include low-income individuals, women, children, and marginalized groups, where access to healthcare is less than 50% and mental health awareness is nearly zero (95% lack of awareness in Monduli District). These groups are disproportionately affected by the country's shortage of physicians (1:20,000 physician-to-patient ratio) and subpar healthcare facilities, forcing many to travel far distances, pay unaffordable prices, and endure delayed or foregone medical care. Mental health care is even more scarce, with only a handful of experts serving millions. How Primetel Transforms Their Lives 1. Affordable & Instant Access: Patients dial *149*46*22# from any mobile, internet-free, to receive remote medical consultations and mental health services. 2. Breaking Geographical Barriers: No one needs to travel; services reach people where they are. 3. Community-Based Support: Our team of CHWs does follow-ups, referrals, and education to promote continuity of care. 4. Early Diagnosis & Prevention: By enabling timely consultations, we reduce avoidable deaths and promote overall well-being.