Making Digital Health Services Work for the Poor

Bangladesh has achieved impressive gains in population health, achieving the Millennium Development Goal 4 target of reducing under-five child mortality by two thirds between 1990 and 2015, and improving other key indicators such as maternal mortality, immunization coverage, and survival rates from malaria, tuberculosis, and diarrhea. The health system of Bangladesh has undergone a number of reforms and has established an extensive health service infrastructure in both the public and private sectors during the past four decades.

However, Bangladesh is still a long way from achieving universal health coverage. Although the statutory health system, in principle, covers all citizens, many sick people are left untreated every year in practice. Private-sector services are too expensive for many and out of pocket expenditures for health care are high.

Amidst these challenges lies the potential of digital technologies to revolutionize and address the existing barriers, thereby paving the way for a more inclusive and effective healthcare ecosystem.

a2i’s Smart Health Accelerator aspires to create an inclusive, national digital health ecosystem in Bangladesh.

Goals:

• Secure Health Information Management
• Digitize Patient Records
• Enhance Prenatal and Pediatric Care
• Develop Sustainable Health Financing
• Strengthen Primary Healthcare Services
• Promote Health Literacy
• Facilitate Telemedicine
• Address Non-Communicable Diseases

Expertise: 

• Health Data Architecture
• Electronic Health Records
• Maternal and Child Health
• Health Financing
• Primary Healthcare

Our Initiatives:

Health Data Architecture

Serves as an information hub, seamlessly integrating and organizing health data across various sources. With a focus on interoperability and efficient data management, our solution ensures that healthcare providers have access to accurate and timely information. By unlocking the true potential of data-driven healthcare, we empower organizations to make informed decisions, enhance patient outcomes, and drive innovation.

Health Financing

We understand the importance of effective healthcare service coverage and financial protection for every citizen. Our Health Financing service offers expert guidance and innovative solutions to optimize financial resources and develop robust financing mechanisms. With a focus on ensuring equitable access to healthcare, we strive to enhance financial stability, improve affordability, and promote high-quality healthcare services.

Health System Strengthening

Focuses on enhancing infrastructure, facilities, staff, and services to raise system efficiency and improve service delivery. Through collaborative efforts, we address key areas including governance, leadership, financing, and human resources, empowering healthcare providers to deliver efficient, equitable, and high-quality care.

Maternal and Child Health

Maternal and Child Health is a vital component of our Smart Health Accelerator services. We provide comprehensive solutions that focus on the well-being of mothers and children, encompassing prenatal, postnatal, and pediatric care. Through innovative technologies and evidence-based practices, we strive to ensure optimal health outcomes for mothers and children, fostering a healthier future generation.

Health Education

Health Education is a key component of our Smart Health Accelerator services. We believe in empowering individuals and communities with knowledge and awareness to make informed decisions about their health. Through targeted educational programs, interactive tools, and engaging resources, we promote health literacy, disease prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices, fostering a culture of proactive healthcare management.

Electronic Health Records

EHR service offers digitalized patient records that revolutionize healthcare management. Our streamlined and secure systems enable efficient access, storage, and sharing of medical data, improving the accuracy and coordination of care. By embracing EHRs, healthcare professionals gain the power to make informed decisions, enhance patient outcomes, and drive healthcare innovation. Experience the transformative potential of our Electronic Health Records solution and embrace a new era of connected and patient-centric healthcare.

Online Patient Appointment System 

A digital platform that allows individuals to schedule and manage their medical appointments conveniently and efficiently, reducing wait times and improving access to healthcare services.

Patient Referral Management System

A modern, user-friendly, sustainable, and integrated referral system which improves patient compliance, quality of treatment, and utilization of healthcare facilities.

Primary Healthcare

Primary Healthcare service focuses on delivering community-based, easily accessible healthcare services to citizens, particularly those in rural and hard-to-reach areas. Through strategic planning, innovative technologies, and capacity building, we aim to strengthen primary healthcare systems and promote comprehensive, patient-centered care. Our goal is to improve access, affordability, and quality of primary healthcare services, leading to enhanced population health outcomes and an emphasis on preventive care.

Health Data Analytic tools

The Smart Health Accelerator team and Vital Strategies, a leading player in global public health, have developed analytics tools to help healthcare professionals and policymakers make informed decisions. We have also bolstered the technical expertise of beneficiaries through the inclusion of the Advanced Analytics Unit and Capacity Development Unit.

Non-Communicable Disease

Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) management is a key area of expertise in our Smart Health Accelerator services. We provide comprehensive strategies to prevent, diagnose, and manage NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory conditions. Through evidence-based interventions, innovative technologies, and holistic approaches, we aim to reduce the burden of NCDs, improve patient outcomes, and promote a healthier society.

Telemedicine

Telemedicine is a cornerstone of our Smart Health Accelerator services. We leverage advanced technologies to enable remote consultations, diagnosis, and treatment delivery. Through secure video conferencing and digital platforms, we enhance access to healthcare, especially in underserved areas. Our telemedicine solutions promote convenience, cost-effectiveness, and timely care, empowering patients and healthcare providers alike.

Health Challenge Fund

Provides funding and support to impactful healthcare initiatives. Our Health e-Learning Platform empowers professionals with online learning resources, while the Doctors Pool App optimizes healthcare staffing. Additionally, our Corona Support Portal serves as a vital resource during challenging times.

National Covid-19 Dashboard 

In collaboration with the Cabinet Division, a2i has created a dashboard for the Covid-19 reporting system for the field administration. Through this, the Cabinet Division is coordinating the necessary healthcare activities, and the allocation and distribution of relief by the field administration. As the dashboard is fully functional, a decision has been taken by the approval of the Senior Secretary, Health Services Division to transfer the dashboard to Directorate General of Health Services.

High Risk Location Identification and Mapping 

a2i is assisting the Ministry of Health and the Police Administration in effective decision making by marking zone-based high risk, low risk, and safe areas (red, yellow, and green on the basis of corona patient’s positional information) on the map. Using the zone-specific information on the map, the government is able to expand area-based assistance, increase/decrease the number of doctors, supply the required medicines, manage hospital facilities, and take necessary administrative actions, including lock downs.