MTN Mobile Money app (MTN MoMo), powered by uBank, has expanded into the digital health service space with the release of a Nurse & Video-Dr Consult pre-paid solution.

According to the operator, the pre-paid digital healthcare solution starts from R370 and is accessed via the MoMo app.

The service is offered in partnership with CareWorks, which is a trusted aggregator of pre-paid health voucher services.

The voucher - which is valid for three years and costs R370 - incorporates access to specific select medicine that may be recommended by a nurse or prescribed by the Video-Dr.

These vouchers are redeemable at Dischem and Medicare pharmacies.

Felix Kamenga, Chief Officer for Mobile Financial Services from MTN SA, said, “MoMo Health vouchers give users access to a nurse for a health check, and if needed, connect to a Video-Dr for a consultation at the nearest Dischem or Medicare pharmacies. Selected medication can then be prescribed if needed. Where the nurse can help resolve your condition and a Video-Dr consult is not required, you will be refunded a portion of the voucher price (R125) into the purchasers MoMo wallet.”

Kamenga said people can access as many vouchers as they need, and they can even buy vouchers for others.

The following tests are included: blood pressure, temperature, oxygen saturation, glucose, BMI and urine dipsticks. The Video-Dr can also provide you with a sick note or a repeat prescription if needed.

The solution is specifically targeted at helping the elderly with no medical aid to get the professional advice and medication they need, according to MTN.

The company is also positioning the solution as an affordable alternative for those who have run out of medical aid savings, “while the general population gains access to an array of medical solutions that were previously not readily available to them.”

Kamenga added, “The high cost of medical aid and affordability constraints are increasing the need for prepaid medical aid to expand health care coverage more broadly and fairly. The best thing about this is people only pay when they need to access health services. They are freed from large monthly bills for medical care they do not use, but still get the benefit of a one-on-one consultation with a healthcare provider. It saves time and money, but also ensures the most vulnerable are not left without the care they need.”