This archive report was first published on 19 June 2020.
On May 4, 2020, Penda Health introduced a home drug delivery solution and free virtual consultations for patients in Kenya, bolstering health outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The service, dubbed “Pigia Penda,” allows patients to receive a free consultation and an over-the-phone prescription if needed. Prescribed medicines are then delivered at a cost, with patients able to pay via mobile money.
Through this service, patients also access up-to-date information on COVID-19 and 24-hour service delivery. Penda Health’s General Manager for Medical Centres, Marion Kago, emphasized the importance of cost-effective and patient-centred alternatives to visiting physical branches.
“The goal of any healthcare delivery system is to support optimal health outcomes for patients. With this service, we are providing cost-effective and patient-centred alternatives to visiting our branches physically,” Ms. Kago said.
Penda Health’s Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Gabriel Njue, noted that the coronavirus outbreak has accelerated telehealth globally, enabling clinicians and patients to access services remotely without exposure to the virus.
“We believe that pigia penda is an important way that we can reach patients safely and conveniently, especially during this pandemic. The adaptation of health technologies is one of the ways in which we can continue providing quality healthcare services while ensuring the safety of all parties,” Dr. Njue said.
