Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson, Founder and CEO of Healthtraka, is on a mission to transform healthcare in Africa. In a recent interview with healthiness.ng, she shared her inspiring journey and vision for making lab testing easy and accessible through at-home sample collection and rapid digital results delivery within 1-3 days.
“I knew that I wanted to provide a solution to make sure that people have access to on-demand healthcare,” says Ifeoluwa. Her drive to create Healthtraka was born from a deeply personal experience. Her father’s sudden illness and tragic passing left her searching for answers, a journey that ultimately led her to the realization that many individuals turn to the internet for health information before seeking professional care.
Healthtraka aims to bridge this gap by offering a platform that empowers individuals to take control of their health. By leveraging the convenience of AI and digital technology, Healthtraka allows people to order lab tests from the comfort of their homes. No longer bound by geographical constraints, patients can access a wide range of tests, from routine to specialized, without the hassle of clinic visits.
Overcoming Challenges: Building Trust and Affordability
Challenges abound, particularly in gaining the trust of a population accustomed to traditional healthcare models. “People need time to get used to this idea,” Ifeoluwa acknowledges. Building trust and credibility in online healthcare services is a gradual process, but the Healthtraka team is committed to earning the trust of their users.
Another significant challenge is affordability. Ifeoluwa believes that healthcare should be accessible to all and affordable for everyone. Healthtraka strives to offer cost-effective solutions that break down financial barriers and ensure that necessary tests are within reach for all income levels.
Healthtraka isn’t just about patient empowerment. The platform also collaborates with healthcare providers and medical facilities to ensure seamless service delivery. Doctors and hospitals can utilize Healthtraka to enhance their practice, providing patients with the necessary diagnostic information without the traditional administrative burdens.
Through strategic partnerships and innovation, Healthtraka is working toward a future where routine healthcare services are efficient, cost-effective, and widely accessible.
One of Healthtraka’s primary focuses is preventive healthcare. As Ifeoluwa points out, many diseases are preventable if detected early. For instance, cervical cancer screening is a critical preventive measure, and Healthtraka is working to make these screenings accessible to women who might not otherwise have the opportunity.
“When you know that something is preventable, and you see what the disease can do when left unchecked, it becomes imperative to act,” Ifeoluwa explains. The platform aims to make a real difference in women’s health outcomes by encouraging early detection and proactive healthcare measures.
The Future of Healthcare in Africa
When asked about the broader impact of Healthtraka in the African healthcare landscape, Ifeoluwa is optimistic. She envisions a future where Healthtraka’s platform plays a pivotal role in revolutionizing healthcare delivery across the continent.
By providing convenient access to essential healthcare services, breaking down geographical barriers, and fostering a culture of preventive healthcare, Healthtraka aims to contribute to improved health outcomes and a more equitable healthcare system.
A Vision for the Future
Ifeoluwa’s vision is ambitious but deeply rooted in a commitment to making healthcare a fundamental right for everyone. She emphasizes that collaboration, partnerships, and continued innovation are essential to achieving this vision.
With support from investors and a growing user base, Healthtraka is poised to disrupt the traditional healthcare model, ushering in a new era of accessible, affordable, and personalized healthcare services for all Africans.
As Healthtraka continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a testament to the power of innovation and determination in improving healthcare systems, one test at a time.