Artificial intelligence (AI) is making waves in the healthcare sector, significantly transforming medical service delivery in Kenya.
This transformative technology was showcased at a free medical camp held on Saturday at Kamureito Primary School in the Sotik Sub- County, Bomet County.
Organized by Safaricom PLC, the M-Pesa Foundation, Zuri Health, Amref Kenya, and Lion SightFirst Eye Hospital in partnership with the County Government of Bomet, the camp highlighted how AI is reshaping healthcare by facilitating diagnosis, tracking, and management of patient care through telemedicine technologies.
Dr. Amanda Gamba, a consultant medical officer with Zuri Health, demonstrated the potential of AI to enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.
“Our system can deliver real-time health data by simply scanning a patient’s face, analyzing facial expressions, and other signs, without the need for physical contact,” Dr. Gamba explained.
Zuri Health’s AI technology utilizes advanced algorithms to analyze visual data from a patient’s face to assess health metrics such as blood pressure and hemoglobin levels.
This process relies on light sensors and image analysis to extract precise health information with a reported accuracy rate of nearly 96%.
Bruno Kiptoo, a developer at Zuri Health, stressed the broader implications of AI in addressing Kenya’s healthcare demands.
“AI and advanced technology allow us to provide quick, non-invasive health assessments. Patients can monitor their health without needing to visit a lab, thanks to devices that use light to analyze blood vessels,” Kiptoo said.
The integration of AI technology not only improves diagnostic precision but also enhances follow-up care.
Patients who attended the camp will benefit from six months of follow-up through Zuri Health’s telemedicine platform, minimizing the need for travel to distant healthcare facilities.
Dr. Felix Langat, representing Bomet’s Health Department, highlighted the importance of the County Government’s collaboration with Zuri Health.
“Our goal is to provide real-time health assessments and consultations, even in remote areas, through technologies like the Teladoc system,” Dr. Langat noted.
In recognition of the challenges faced by rural areas with limited access to advanced technology, Zuri Health has incorporated USSD codes and SMS services.
This adaptation ensures that even those without smartphones can access AI-driven healthcare services.
“By incorporating USSD codes and SMS services, we ensure that patients using analogue devices can also benefit from our AI-driven healthcare solutions,” Dr. Gamba added.
Bomet County Government, through the Ministry of Health, had created the Teladoc online AI system to provide telemedicine. It will work hand in hand with Zuri to revolutionize the health sector in Bomet.
By Lamech Willy. A
