The Sunday Mail
Society Reporter
A GROUNDBREAKING concept — the health automated teller machine (ATM) — is understood to be pushing the boundaries of innovation in the health sector.
The machine is not designed to dispense cash, but health services, and store information.
It is reportedly equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment covering vital aspects of healthcare, including cardiology, neurology and gynaecology.
The machine allows individuals to access their personal health information through any internet-connected device.
Jona Machaya from Clinics on Cloud Africa said they launched Health ATM and Box Clinic to provide preventative healthcare screenings through advanced technology.
“With our health ATM, the aim is to give everyone access to healthcare. It is possible for someone in Binga to get seamless connectivity to a doctor in Harare through the use of the machine because of its telemedicine capabilities,” said Machaya.
“These cutting-edge health ATMs are fully automated and equipped with advanced technology, offering preventive healthcare services to citizens.
“Our ATM is capable of screening individuals for up to 63 health parameters and the machine offers a hassle-free experience for users.
“To obtain readings such as blood pressure, HBA1C, haemoglobin and many more, the user just simply needs to step on to the machine scale and place their palm on the designated area.”
The ATM is designed to manage health-related information and allows individuals to access personal health information any time.
“These ATMs offer screenings, including measurement of height, weight, body temperature, blood glucose levels, vision tests, blood pressure, ECG (electrocardiogram) for instant heart checkups, invasive and non-invasive blood tests, oxygen saturation levels and mental health screenings,” said Nyasha Nyamupaguma, who specialises in digital health.
“All these tests are done in a mere 10 minutes, with users receiving an instant report detailing their health status and health score.”
Clinics on Cloud Africa also helps with project implementation and offers a helping hand in school and corporate wellness programmes.
“For the doctor, we provide a web and mobile application to consult with the patient and to view his health reports during the video live consultation.
“Doctors who practise in more than one location can simply embrace this and work remotely, saving them time by visits,” added Nyamupaguma.
The Zimbabwe Medical Association (ZIMA) has embraced the innovation, which they believe is in line with the country’s development agenda.
“It is a welcome initiative; the machine will give everyone the same health access regardless of location,” said Paurosi Mukahiwa from ZIMA.
“We are happy the country is embracing and talking about telemedicine, which will have greater reach for all medical professionals and bring convenience.”
