Technology in Medical Aid: How Innovation is Transforming Healthcare Access
The future of healthcare is here- and it is powered by technology. As medical aid schemes evolve to meet the needs of members, innovations like telemedicine and digital health platforms are bridging gaps in access, affordability, and convenience.
Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) is at the forefront of this revolution, partnering with local tech companies to introduce health kiosks, telehealth platform- a groundbreaking initiative set to redefine healthcare delivery for its members, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Bridging Gaps
‘Imagine walking into a post office and leaving with a full health check-up’. This is now a reality for PSMAS members in 17 districts so far, thanks to newly installed health kiosks. These mini-medical centers are equipped with essential diagnostic tools and staffed by qualified healthcare workers, offering general practitioner consultations, medication dispensing and wellness assessments.
Located in post offices and other high-traffic areas, the kiosks eliminate the need for members to travel long distances to find providers who accept their PSMAS cards. This initiative ensures quality care is just a walk away.
Complementing the kiosks is PSMAS’s new telehealth platform, which allows members to consult doctors remotely via video calls. Whether managing a chronic condition, seeking a second opinion, or addressing minor ailments, patients can now access care from home. This is especially transformative for:
- Members in rural areas with limited transport options
- Busy professionals- juggling work and health
- Elderly patients requiring frequent check-ups
The platform also supports remote monitoring of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, ensuring timely interventions and reducing hospitalizations.
Shortfalls and co-payments
For years, PSMAS members grappled with card rejections, high co-payments, and a lack of providers in certain districts. Technology is changing that. At health kiosks:
- There are zero shortfalls or co-payments
- Guaranteed card acceptance
- Expanded access: Districts like Nyanga, Chikomba, Mberengwa, and Shurugwi now have reliable care hubs.
The health kiosks and telehealth platform are part of PSMAS’s broader strategy to integrate technology into healthcare. This includes expanding the Premier Express Network – a growing list of providers accepting PSMAS cards.
Join the Revolution Â
PSMAS members in the 17 pilot districts can already visit kiosks in:
- Chirumanzu, Nyanga, Chiweshe
- Kwekwe, Zvishavane, Beatrice
- Chimanimani, Hauna, Redcliffe
NB: Full list available at PSMAS website
PSMAS members can call on 0789335498 to book a virtual appointment or alternatively walk in a Telehealth booth near them.
Technology isn’t just reshaping medical aid – it’s restoring dignity and hope to healthcare. By embracing innovation, PSMAS is not only solving today’s challenges but paving the way for a future where quality care is a right, not a privilege.
