Transforming Health using Technology

Introducing HealthSync, a one of a kind app designed to transform healthcare systems by reducing queues, ensuring medication availability, and delivery of vital services to vulnerable communities.

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Inspiration

As InnovateHer, we wanted to use our various technical skills to improve the lives of the people in our communities. Many community members have been denied their right to healthcare and we wanted to explore ways in which efficient and effective healthcare can be provided to them. As an all-female team, we need to help empower the women in our communities. We have seen girls and women lose their lives because they cannot access reproductive healthcare and so, through this solution, we want to see South Africans reclaim their power and bodily autonomy by being able to access services such as family planning, contraception and abortions. Another inspiration to us is to take up space in the South African tech community. We believe it is important as black women to have our voices heard and ideas seen in the tech industry.

What it does

HealthSync is a one-of-a-kind and multipurpose application that catalyzes achieving the third Sustainable Development Goal which is to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. It will also provide South Africa with a more functional healthcare system. Our unique application features provide a wider range of services to our communities. Additionally, HealthSync offers effective and efficient communication between community healthcare providers and the government of South Africa. Although this is a solution designed specifically for South Africa, our hope and dream is that this application is utilized and adopted by the global community.

How we built it

The front end of the app will be developed using ReactNative and JavaScript, ensuring a dynamic and responsive user interface. For the database, we will use mySQL to manage and store user data securely and efficiently. The live chat feature will incorporate a “virtual” nurse, powered by Python, to provide real-time assistance and support to users. This feature will utilise network programming to ensure seamless communication. The delivery system will also rely on the database infrastructure to manage orders and logistics efficiently. The queuing system will be implemented using Java to ensure performance and reliability. Lastly, the app will include a dedicated tab for contraception information, providing users with accessible and accurate information.

Challenges we ran into

  1. Gathering accurate information about clinics and their operation was a challenge. We overcame this challenge by using public information from clinics.
  2. The team struggled with identifying which features should be included in the app to ensure it would be as impactful as possible while still considering the feasibility of the platform.
  3. Some members were unable to attend some meetings due to load-shedding. We overcame this challenge by planning around the load-shedding schedule. Additionally, we split the work that needed to be done so that members could work on their sections when they had power to avoid falling behind.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

  1. Completing our presentation
  2. Working effectively as a team
  3. Refining our skills in researching and designing
  4. Developing a solution to real-world problem(s)

What we learned

Through the creation of this presentation, we have acquired a lot of knowledge on the Sustainable Development Goals and how we can be involved in achieving the SDGs. We also learned a lot about the healthcare infrastructure of South Africa. This project has improved our teamwork and communication skills. Working on this project has also made us realise the importance of peer collaboration and how to utilise our strengths as a team. We were exposed to different technologies that we were unaware of.

What's next for Transforming Health using Technology

The next steps include:

  1. Develop a project plan with clear milestones and timelines.
  2. Building a basic prototype with the basic functionalities
  3. Consulting with healthcare officials and the Department of Health
  4. Bringing the project to life by connecting with stakeholders, including clinics, the Department of Health and patients, for testing the app. This includes having testing sessions with the stakeholders and using the feedback from them to improve the app to ensure a better user experience.
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