Telemedicine Chatbot to Provide Healthcare Access for Sudanese Refugees

In a world where access to healthcare is crucial, the introduction of a telemedicine chatbot by Gupshup, conversation cloud, Meta, the Sudan Medical Specialization Board, and non-profit Shabaka is a game-changer for Sudanese refugees in need.

With the ongoing strife and violence in Sudan forcing millions of people to flee their homes, access to basic medical services becomes a challenge for many. The telemedicine chatbot aims to bridge this gap by providing essential healthcare access to nearly 800,000 Sudanese refugees in Egypt, Eritrea, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Djibouti, and other neighboring nations.

Through the use of WhatsApp, patients can now easily connect with healthcare providers, making medical help more accessible and efficient. Participating doctors and Shabaka, a diaspora consulting group, will work together to promote the chatbot and ensure that refugees receive the care they need.

The chatbot provides patients with an omnichannel experience, allowing them to communicate with healthcare professionals via any internet-enabled device in a secure and regulatory-compliant manner. With support for Arabic and English languages, the chatbot is set to expand to include additional languages based on demand.

Beerud Sheth, founder and CEO of Gupshup, expressed his enthusiasm for the humanitarian project, stating that technology can be a force for good in supporting humanitarian causes around the world. Dr. Sara Ibrahim Abdelgalil, senior advisor and project lead- Telemedicine at Shabaka, highlighted the successful engagement of Sudanese medical professionals in the telemedicine program, providing essential services to civilians in need.

Overall, the introduction of the telemedicine chatbot is a significant step towards improving healthcare access for Sudanese refugees. By leveraging the power of technology, these organizations are making a positive impact on the lives of individuals facing immense challenges. It is a testament to the belief that technology can be used for good and a dedication to supporting humanitarian causes worldwide.