MyTherapistng and WellaHealth Join Forces to Enhance Health Services
MyTherapistng, a prominent Nigerian mental healthtech startup, has recently announced an exciting new partnership with WellaHealth, another innovative Nigerian healthtech company. This strategic collaboration follows MyTherapistng reaching a significant milestone of 5,000 users and aims to enhance service offerings by integrating micro-health insurance, providing an additional layer of health security for its users.
Integration of Affordable Healthcare Solutions
According to MyTherapistng, WellaHealth’s approach to affordable healthcare will seamlessly integrate into their platform. This partnership will enable users to access a wider range of health solutions, including telemedicine, malaria testing and medication, as well as diabetes and blood pressure screening.
Focus on Corporate Clients
“For now, this comprehensive health package, covering both mental and physical health, will be available exclusively to our corporate clients, with WellaHealth as our direct service provider,” said Oluwaseun Raphael Afolayan, CTO and Co-founder of MyTherapistng.
Addressing Nigeria’s Mental Health Challenges
Nigeria, with its population exceeding 200 million across six geopolitical zones, faces significant mental health challenges. Approximately one in four Nigerians report experiencing mental illness, yet only about 10.4% of those with severe mental disorders have access to treatment.
Government Initiatives to Expand Health Coverage
Currently, only 3% of Nigerians have health insurance. However, in February 2024, Dr. Salma Anas-Ibrahim, Special Adviser to the President on Health, announced that the federal government aims to extend health coverage to over 50 million Nigerians by 2027, focusing on the vulnerable and elderly.
Importance of Strategic Partnerships in Healthtech
For healthtech startups in Nigeria, forming strategic partnerships is crucial for improving insurance access and expanding healthcare availability. Research highlights the significant impact of such alliances on innovation and business growth. A report by the BPI Network, featured in Forbes, indicates that 44% of businesses actively pursue partnerships to gain new ideas and insights, which drive innovation. Additionally, a Harvard Business Review study shows that 94% of technology executives consider innovation partnerships vital to their strategic planning.
Driving Innovation and Raising Mental Health Awareness
The collaboration between MyTherapistng and WellaHealth aims to drive innovation and raise awareness about mental health in Nigeria, where individuals with mental illnesses often face stigma and discrimination.
“Our objective has always been to dismantle barriers to mental health care,” stated Dedoyin Ajayi, Co-founder and CEO of MyTherapistng. “Partnering with WellaHealth not only expands the range of services we offer but also strengthens our commitment to providing comprehensive health support for our users.”
Our objective has always been to dismantle barriers to mental health care”,
Expanding Services with Healthsend Africa
Following the launch of Healthsend Africa by WellaHealth in Kenya nine months ago, and its subsequent rollout in Nigeria in June 2023, Healthsend has enabled immigrants to top up a website wallet and pay for various healthcare services for their family members in Nigeria and Kenya. This service is accessible to immigrants in the United States, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.
Future Partnerships for Comprehensive Health Solutions
In addition to the collaboration with WellaHealth, MyTherapistng is actively engaged in discussions with several key organizations that align with its mission to enhance mental well-being for all Africans. Potential partnerships include HMO organizations such as Wellness HMO and IHMS, as well as healthtech startups like Clafiya, Famasi, Healthtracka, and others.
Conclusion: A Step Forward for Nigerian Healthtech
The partnership between MyTherapistng and WellaHealth marks a significant step forward in the Nigerian healthtech landscape. By integrating affordable healthcare solutions and expanding service offerings, this collaboration not only addresses immediate health needs but also sets a foundation for long-term health security for Nigerians. As the healthtech industry continues to evolve, such strategic alliances will play a pivotal role in driving innovation, enhancing healthcare access, and improving the overall well-being of the population.
