DOUALA February 15th, 2024 – Leading ICT Company, Smart Applications International Ltd (Smart) expands its global presence and officially launches its operations in Cameroon. The launch of Smart Applications Ltd in Cameroon is a significant step in solidifying its Pan-African presence and commitment by providing innovative technology solutions that revolutionize how healthcare is accessed. This milestone event marks a significant step forward in revolutionizing healthcare accessibility and trust in the region, bringing together key stakeholders from the healthcare industry, including government officials and community leaders, to celebrate the introduction of Smart’s cutting-edge technology to the Cameroonian healthcare landscape. Speaking at the event, the Governor’s office representative of the littoral region, emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in improving healthcare access:” We I am committed to fostering an environment where innovation thrives and where collaboration is celebrated. The launch of Smart Applications in Cameroon represents a significant step forward in our efforts to enhance digital healthcare accessibility and visibility in our region. I commend Smart for their dedication to improving healthcare delivery for the people of Cameroon through their solutions”. Harrison Muiru, the Group’s Managing Director, emphasized the Company’s mission during his keynote speech, stating, “Our mission is to transform healthcare delivery through innovative digital solutions. We aim to facilitate and enable increased accessibility and personalized services for clients in the region. With a robust portfolio of product/service offerings, Smart Applications is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of the Cameroonian healthcare space and contributing to the local economy.” During the official launch held at Krystal Hotel in Cameroon, Smart introduced its innovative technology solutions that span from a fully-fledged Hospital Management Information System (HMIS), “SmartHealth+”, a top of the range Medical biometric management system “MediSmart” which is in use by over 100 healthcare funders in Africa, a fully Fledged Insurance Back-end management system Smart Insure which enable for integrated medical insurance system to manage the back-office operations, and a data-driven Analytics platform that enables business leaders to make data- driven decision making for the overall growth and profitability of their business. Smart Cameroon Business Development Lead, July Nguemen, officially introduced Smart Health+, noting that it’s an innovative hospital management information system (HMIS). She confirmed that this solution from Smart Applications streamlines the entire healthcare patient journey – from planning to execution. With intuitive dashboards, real-time updates, and powerful analytics available in the system. The Smart Health+ (HMIS) empowers healthcare facilities with the tools needed to deliver personalized, efficient, and high-quality delivery of care to every patient while to streamlining administrative processes, enhance communication between healthcare providers, and improve patient care delivery. With features such as electronic health records management, appointment scheduling, and billing integration, Smart’s HMIS empowers healthcare organizations to deliver more efficient, effective, and patient-centered care. L-R Collins Ngeno, Group Technology Director, Smart Applications International, Esther Kiringa, Group Sales & Marketing Director, Smart Applications International, Judy Mugoya, Regional Countries Representative, and Smart Applications Uganda, Country Manager, Kennedy Miringu, Smart Applications Cameroon, Country Manager, Harrison Muiru, Smart Applications International, Group Managing Director, and July Nguemen, Smart Applications Cameroon, Business Development Officer, cutting a cake during the official launch of Smart in Cameroon. A Call to Embrace the Use of Technology in Healthcare During the keynote remarks, Dr. Jules Nebo, Regional APES coordinator for littoral and southwest regions called on all stakeholders to embrace technology and join hands in transforming healthcare delivery in Cameroon. Smart, as a member of APES is at the forefront in providing digital health solutions. Let’s pave the way for a future where every individual has access to affordable, high-quality healthcare, and where trust is the cornerstone of our healthcare system,” Over its 20 years of operation, Smart has significantly enhanced healthcare access for its insured customers with its flagship solution, MediSmart. This innovative platform facilitates streamlined medical scheme management by integrating biometrics and mobile phone technology. Through the MediSmart solution, individuals can seamlessly access healthcare virtually via the Smart Access app or by using a USSD code. The uninsured patients are also not left out here, with the ability to book appointments to a clinic or hospital of their choice, and have a digital copy of their health passport, ensuring it is safe from the public eye and able available for your doctor on request. Mr.Muiru, further noted that “thousands of Smart customers in Cameroon will now be able to use Smart solutions to access services across all lines of healthcare. We are cognizant of creating transformative patient-centric solutions that address current needs in such economic times”. He reiterated that these solutions would go a long way in the promotion of trust and visibility within the healthcare ecosystem. “With Smart Access, a customer traveling through the 11 countries covered by Smart can access healthcare by using the app across all lines of healthcare without having to worry about pre-authorization or even coverage,” echoed, Kennedy Miringu, Country Manager, Smart Applications International Cameroon Ltd. Smart Applications is committed to pioneering digitization across Africa and beyond through the provision of World Class Technology Solutions.
Smart Applications International Ltd achieves ISO27001 and ISO22301 Certifications
Double ISO certification solidifies Smart Applications International Ltd. standing as a world-class business. Nairobi, Kenya Jan. 17, 2023 — Smart Applications International Ltd. (Smart) Recently announced that it has earned the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 22301:2019 and ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certifications from MSECB, an internationally recognized certification body. The recognitions came after a thorough audit and examination by MSECB. These certifications show Smart’s commitment to maintaining globally recognized standards in a bid to be in line with the best business practices available and solidify the company’s standing as a world-class organization. The International Organisation for Standardisation describes ISO 22301 as the International Standard for implementing and maintaining effective business continuity plans, systems, and processes. The purpose of ISO 22301 is to assist companies in preventing, getting ready for, dealing with, and recovering from unanticipated and disruptive situations. The standard provides a helpful framework for setting up and running a fruitful business continuity management system in order to achieve this. ISO 22301 can shield a business against a range of potential hazards and disruptions. ISO/IEC 27001 on the other hand is described by the International Organisation for Standardisation as the world’s best-known standard for information security management systems (ISMS). With the support of ISO 27001’s best-practice approach, which considers people, processes, and technology, organisations can manage their information security. The world recognizes certification to the ISO 27001 standard as proof that your ISMS is in line with industry best practices for information security. The ISO 27001 standard, which is a part of the ISO 27000 family, provides organizations with a framework for creating, implementing, running, monitoring, reviewing, maintaining, and improving an ISMS. Speaking on the certifications, Joshua Juna, Regional Infrastructure and Security Manager, Smart Applications International, noted that: “We are happy to have received ISO certifications from MSECB. Achieving these international certifications was no easy feat, we realise that these certifications go a long way in confirming our dedication to both managing data security and ensuring business continuity in order to guarantee that we are consistently offering our customers the best and most secure services available.”
Smart Applications International Partners With Gertrude s Children s Hospital Foundation Donates Towards Cancer Walk
Nairobi, Kenya 19/05/2023… Smart Applications International, a leading technology company, demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility by presenting a generous donation of KES 350,000 to support the Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital Foundation Annual Cancer Walk. The donation was made during a special ceremony held at Gertrude Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, underscoring Smart Applications’ dedication to making a positive impact in the community. Through its Corporate Social Investment arm, known as Smart Touch of Gold, the company actively supports various community initiatives addressing a wide range of needs. In this instance, the focus of the event, scheduled for Sunday, May 21st, is to raise awareness about paediatric cancers and gather resources to combat cancer effectively. “We are honored to present this donation to the Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation Annual Cancer Walk,” Remarked Esther Macharia, Head of Hospital Operations, at Smart Applications International. “At Smart Applications, we recognize the importance of supporting causes that have a direct and positive impact on people’s lives. By contributing to this walk, we aim to raise awareness about pediatric cancers and provide much-needed resources for the fight against cancer. We are proud to stand alongside the Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation in their mission to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families.” “Smart Applications has established enduring and supportive partnerships with hospitals not only in Kenya but also beyond. Our commitment lies in fostering initiatives that truly enrich the communities we serve. Through the impactful programs of Smart Touch of Gold and Arms of Care, we are dedicated to extending this grace and support to our local communities.” Remarked Mr. Harrison Muiru, Group Managing Director, Smart Applications International. Speaking about the event, Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, CEO, Dr. Robert Nyarango encouraged the public to participate in the walk to help fight the growing cancer epidemic. “Thousands of children are fighting cancer in this country each year. For many of them, diagnosis and treatment are out of reach. The number of new cases is rising alarmingly, especially considering that many people including health workers may not recognise the symptoms or access early diagnosis and treatment. While 80% of childhood cancers are treatable, only 1 out of 10 children are cured of cancer in Kenya.” The CEO affirmed that Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital is at the forefront of improving outcomes for children fighting cancer. “This requires a multi-stakeholder and multi-faceted approach that brings together financing, human capital, and facilities to reach even the most vulnerable with life-saving care,” said Dr. Nyarango. About Smart Applications International Smart Applications International is a leading ICT solutions provider delivering a wide range of world-class technological solutions. Fondly known as Smart within the industry, the company was founded to provide innovative, secure, and high-tech solutions in Africa and beyond. Currently Smart has operations in more than 11 counties in Africa with over 7200 hospitals using our biometrics system and over 100 healthcare and insurance schemes. Dr. Robert Nyarango, CEO, Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital (Left) receives a cheque from Mr. Harrison Muiru, Group Managing Director, Smart Applications International (Right) to support the Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital Foundation Annual Cancer Walk. (L-R) Dr. Robert Nyarango, CEO, Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, Esther Macharia, Head of Hospital Operations, Smart Applications International, Dr. Carol Waweru, Foundation Manager, Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation, and Mr. Harrison Muiru, Group Managing Director, Smart Applications International during the cheque handover ceremony held at Gertrude Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya.
SMART APPLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL HOLDS FORUM TO PROMOTE HEALTHCARE DIGITISATION
[Kisumu, Kenya, 6th July 2023]- Smart Applications International (Smart), a leading ICT solutions provider, successfully hosted an event on 6th July 2023, themed “Digital Transformation in Healthcare” at The Grand Royal Swiss Hotel in Kisumu, Kenya. The purpose of the event was to explore the opportunities presented by digital technologies in enhancing healthcare access for patients and improving healthcare administration for providers in the region. During the event, Smart took the opportunity to launch SmartHealth+, the company’s comprehensive Hospital Management Information System (HMIS). SmartHealth+ optimises resources, streamlines operations, and enhances the patient experience within healthcare facilities. “By introducing SmartHealth+, our comprehensive Hospital Management Information System (HMIS), we are empowering healthcare providers in the region to embrace the transformative power of digital technologies. With SmartHealth+, we aim to revolutionise healthcare administration, optimize resources, and ultimately improve the patient experience within healthcare facilities.” Esther Macharia, Head of Hospital Operations, Smart Applications, noted. Smart also showcased a range of other technology solutions from its portfolio that facilitate the seamless digitisation of the healthcare industry. One of the key solutions showcased at the event was MediSmart, Smart’s flagship Automated Medical Scheme Management Solution using biometric technology to enhance healthcare access and eliminate fraud through combating impersonation and wastage in medical insurance schemes. The discussion centred around the evolution of MediSmart as it can now be accessed through Smart Virtual Access, a recently launched mobile phone portable technology solution. This innovation utilises virtual and biometric technology to improve access to medical services. Given Kenya’s high mobile phone penetration rate of 80%, Smart’s mobile-centric approach aligns with the global agenda of leveraging mobile platforms to provide inclusive healthcare solutions. Harrison Muiru, the Group Managing Director of Smart Applications International, commented, “The development of healthcare solutions that leverage Mobile Phone Technologies demonstrates our institution’s commitment to simplifying digital healthcare access. Inclusive technologies such as USSD and mobile apps for feature and smartphones play a critical role in UHC Digitization and complement healthcare access.” In addition to SmartHealth+ and Smart Virtual Access, the audience learned about Smart Analytics, a solution that provides insights into data from various business processes. This empowers medical service providers and insurance companies to make informed interpretations and decisions, leading to improved profitability, efficiency, and customer service. Smart Applications International ensures data protection compliance within the confines of the Data Protection Act and International Acts. The event brought together healthcare providers, insurance providers, and policymakers who shared valuable insights on the role of technology in improving access to healthcare services. The forum included engaging discussions, keynote speeches, and interactive sessions. Esther Macharia further expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of medical service providers and their proactive approach to utilising Smart’s solutions to enhance patient experiences and foster better communities. Overall, the event was a resounding success, with participants expressing enthusiasm for adopting mobile phone technology to improve healthcare access. Smart Applications International is committed to hosting similar events in the future to continue promoting the adoption of technology in healthcare across different cities and countries.
Smart Launches MediSmart App
Smart Applications International has launched a Mobile App for all smartcard holders, the App empowers Smart card holders to access their cover information with ease at the comfort of their phones. To use the App, users will be required to download the app- MediSmart on either the App or Play Store and follow a simple registration process. To complete registration, users will be sent an automated OTP (OneTimePin) to complete the registration process. Key Features – Capability to generate/view member medical expenditure report – Check your medical cover details and card balance – Geo- Locate your approved healthcare facilities – Check your biometric smart card status – FAQs & Support The chairman Dr. Chris Kirubi with the management team
Industrialist Chris Kirubi Smart Applications Donate Sh300000 To Support A Patient Due For Spinal Surgery At KNH
NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 16 – Industrialist Chris Kirubi, together with Centum Foundation and Smart Applications donated on Monday Sh300,000 to Mary Muthoni, a patient set to undergo spinal surgery at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Smart Applications Group Marketing Director Esther Muiruri, while handing over the cheque to KNH, said the funds will assist the family which had already raised Sh200,000 towards Muthoni’s surgery. “We want to pass this contribution to the family through the hospital which will go a long way in serving the patient through the treatment she will be getting,” said Muiruri. KNH Chief Executive Officer Evanson Kamuri assured of the hospital’s support saying the donation will specifically be dedicated to Muthoni’s treatment costs. “For Kenyatta, we can promise that the money you have given will go directly to the beneficiary and it will not be misused,” Kamuri said. Dr Kirubi and Smart Applications Group intervened after Muthoni’s three children staged a walk from Kinangop to Nairobi in a campaign to raise at least Sh500,000 for a titanium plate on her back. Muthoni’s brother Paul Kimani, said the family resolved to mobilize funds through the walk to Nairobi having only managed to raise Sh60,000 for the surgery while the sum required for the procedure was Sh500,000. “We want to thank Chris Kirubi for supporting us during this journey, this is a miracle that we are forever grateful to Smart Application and Centum too who have assisted us in paying for the surgery cost,” said Kimani. The two boys and their elder sister started the journey to Nairobi on Sunday displaying a picture of their mother who had been in the hospital for the last two months. Muthoni was sheltering herself from the rain at a quarry when rocks dropped on her, leaving her with the injuries which necessitated the surgery.
BIMALAB II INSURTECH ACCELERATOR PROGRAM
As the Bimalab II InsureTech Accelerator program kicks off. We are honoured to be part of the mentor organisations who will be shaping and sharing our tech experiences in the InsureTech space with other great organisations. Empowering others remains at our forefront. #insuretech #Technology #healthcare #Smartcares
Old Mutual and Smart Applications Group launch electronic data interchange solution
NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 4 – UAP Old Mutual has partnered Smart Applications International, a leading healthcare management technology solutions provider in automating the UAP Old Mutual’s member access processes and digitizing the medical claims interface with healthcare service partners. The digitization through Smart’s Electronic Data Interchange Solution (EDI) will enable UAP Old Mutual clients faster access to treatment and result in more efficient, paperless medical claims through the healthcare facilities. The new platform will greatly enhance UAP Old Mutual’s innovation in service delivery, achieve a paperless hospital engagement process. The solution also brings on board the capability for auto-claims validation before submission and auto-vetting once submitted, leading to faster and more efficient payments to all accredited healthcare providers serving UAP Old Mutual members. The General Manager Health Business, Japheth Ogalloh said “This innovation which has been integrated to our backend system will improve the claims process by making it more efficient and cost effective. This partnership and innovation underscores our commitment to evolving with the emerging needs of our vendors, intermediaries and customers. The business environment is changing rather rapidly, and at UAP Old Mutual we are alive to this reality and will continue to innovate as part of our strategy”. The EDI solution is a step towards the much-needed innovation in the healthcare space to accelerate uptake of medical insurance through digital platforms that reduce insurance scheme administration costs whilst delivering convenience. The Smart EDI platform also comes fully compliant and loaded with the ICD10 coding mechanism as approved and provided by the World Health Organization for ease in clinical and medical claims automation. Among many other deliverables under the partnership between UAP Old Mutual and Smart Applications International is further automation through implementation of world-class healthcare processes like Straight Through Processing (STP) and Service Based billing, all new in Africa and which will now ride on the EDI framework, according to Harrison Muiru, the Group Managing Director at Smart Applications. “We are extremely delighted working with UAP Old Mutual as a leader in the healthcare space to on board our Smart technologies within their medical insurance operations for better reach, effectiveness and efficiency in delivering their medical products,” said Muiru. The move by UAP Old Mutual marks a milestone in healthcare automation & standardization. Smart Applications International will continue to work with key players in the African healthcare industry like UAP Old Mutual to digitise and automate medical processes in order to realise efficiency not only in Kenya but across Africa where it has a presence. The sentiments were echoed by Esther Muiruri, SMART’s Group Marketing Director. With presence in 9 countries across over 4,000 healthcare facilities, Smart remains at the forefront of taking healthcare access innovation to new heights across Africa.
Data Insights During the Covid Pandemic
We live in an age where information on you is constantly collected and stored. These large data sets can be used to offer insights into the behavior of a given populace. SMART APPLICATIONS gives a sneak peek into insights gleaned from data collected since the COVID pandemic struck. These insights can be used to guide future policy and isolate causes and effects of emergent issues. In this article, we shall look at four insightful trends and their definite effect on the cost of healthcare in the country. Before we dive into the data, we need to state that correlation is not causality. Just because one event increased in correspondence to a second does not mean that the first event caused the second, or vice versa. First, and rather obviously, data shows there was an aversion to hospitals in 2020. The year saw a marked drop in hospital visits; originally this was thought to be caused by reduced illnesses caused by social isolation and restricted movement, however, a sharp increase in hospital visits in 2021 may imply a psychological aversion to hospitals in 2020. The most interesting bit from the data analysis however is that: Visits to the dentist have increased since Covid 19 struck. The data shows a sharp increase in cases of tooth decay. Dental carries which was formerly not even top 20 is now the second most commonly treated ailment. It is important to remember that correlation is not causality. It’s not likely that the Covid 19 virus also affect the teeth but; it is likely that wearing masks for longer contributes to the erosion of tooth enamel. CNN International Correspondent Larry Madowo at the start of the pandemic tweeted in jest “I know we’re washing hands but when do we go back to taking showers?”. While the humour is not wasted on any of us, it may point and a general disregard for hygiene during the WFH period. This may include dental hygiene which in turn shows the increase in dental caries. It could also be that during the WFH period, many people are consuming more sugar leading to the upsurge in tooth decay. Again, correlation versus causality. The hypothesis that mask-wearing is the culprit gets a little more weight by another interesting statistic. There was a marked increase in cases of myopia reported. Eye problems and tooth problems together may point at the negative effects of prolonged mask-wearing. But this needs further investigation. Lastly, lower back pain has seen a sharp increase in reporting in 2021. This could be caused by increased in-activity during the WFH period or could be as simple as most people working form home do not have proper desk set up. Furniture built for lounging on such as living room furniture does give adequate back support and could also be the cause here. We have to insist, correlation is not causality, therefore establishing the actual cause demands further investigation. While we can speculate on the sudden upsurge of myopia, lower back pain and dental caries, we know with certainty the effect. Insurers have been paying more in hospital claims as visits to the dentist and ophthalmologist often cost more than visits to a GP. SMART APPLICATIONS has a dedicated data science and analytics team that graciously availed this data within the confines of the data protection act. AVERSION TO HOSPITALS EYE PROBLEMS HAVE INCREASED BACK PROBLEMS HAVE INCREASED DENTIST VISITS HAVE INCREASED
Turning 30 Is Worse Than You Thought
The data has spoken! It says, “if life begins at forty, old age begins at thirty”. Thirty is the age at which you begin to use the phrase ‘young people’ to refer to those younger than yourself. It is the age at which your body begins to take on a maturity you wish it didn’t. You seem a little calmer and purposeful, but it’s actually because you’re less energetic, not because you’re self-assured. This has been my experience with getting over the age of thirty. The data shows that 30- to 40-year-old individuals are most likely to report to hospital with illness among the top 4 illnesses reported. This age group reported the most acute upper respiratory illnesses. This could be because of days spent at crowded work places, pollution on the drive to work or poor lifestyle choices. The second most affected age group, as you would naturally guess was forty to fifty years. This order stays the same again for acute pharyngitis. Age group 30 to 40 is the most affected followed by the 40 to 50 age group. Both of these put together Pharyngitis again may have the same causes as upper respiratory illnesses. In both pharyngitis and upper respiratory illnesses, the 20 to 30 age group had the least reported cases. These group seem by and large to be the healthiest of the lot. The story however changes when it comes to gastritis. The most common cause of which is H-pylori infections. Food that is poorly handled is the main culprit here. It seems the 20 to 30-year-olds are also having their fill at the less than sanitary kibandaski. Persons aged forty to fifty however topped the list when it comes to hypertension with the thirty to forty age group following closely. It’s a bleak picture; the data seems to be saying, “after you turn thirty, you get ill and then you retire with high blood pressure”. But while the data is painting a bleak picture. SMART would like to leave you with a bit of hope. The next time you feel a bit of gastritis creeping in, take a holiday down in Mombasa and get treated for the lowest prices in the market in Mombasa. If you’re older and suffering hypertension, rush on out to Kiambu where the treatment costs are lowest according to our data. Getting medical attention around the country has Nairobi and Nakuru as the most expensive counties with Kiambu and Mombasa as the best priced counties to get medical attention. Lastly, whatever age group you’re in, take care of your body. It’s the only one you’ve got.
