TL/DR –
Telemedan, a telemedicine initiative in Chad, uses solar-powered kiosks to bring medical consultations closer to rural communities. The kiosks are equipped with medical devices, and doctors can consult patients remotely through a screen. Launched in 2021, there are now 37 kiosks in operation across 11 provinces, reaching an estimated 143,000 people.
Enhancing Accessibility to Healthcare in Rural Chad via Telemedan Kiosks
For Ache Kodo in Bitkine, Chad, visiting a doctor once involved saving money for a costly journey. Now, she can consult a doctor remotely through a Telemedan kiosk close to her home. “Telemedan has transformed how my family accesses healthcare services, boosting my economic status,” Ache stated.
In rural Chad, distance poses as big a barrier as the shortage of doctors. Medical facilities are largely concentrated in bigger towns and cities, leaving many communities deprived of basic services. Abakar Mahamat, who grew up in this reality, launched Telemedan, a telemedicine initiative, in 2021, bridging the gap between doctors and rural communities.
Solar-Powered Clinics Bringing Doctors Closer to Communities
Telemedan’s kiosks, powered by solar panels and batteries, can operate without reliable grid electricity. A local operator registers the patient and takes basic measurements. The doctor joins remotely, guiding the operator during the examination. The kiosks are equipped with diagnostic tools, such as stethoscopes, temperature sensors, and in some cases, ultrasound equipment.
The system is designed to function in places with unreliable internet connections. Patient information can be stored locally and synchronized when connectivity is restored. An Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) service allows people without internet access to book appointments and access critical health information. The kiosks can be connected via mobile networks or satellite links.
Reducing the Cost of Accessing Medical Care
Often, journeys for medical care can cost $200 or more, including transport, accommodation, logistics, and the consultation fee. Telemedan’s consultations cost between $2 and $15, depending on the service. “A patient should not have to choose between seeking medical care and being able to feed their family,” said Abakar.
Expanding Network from Pilot to Widespread Solution
Telemedan started as a pilot and expanded with support from grants and institutional partnerships, including Chad’s Ministry of Public Health and Prevention. Currently, the initiative has 37 kiosks across 11 provinces, helping approximately 143,000 people. The initiative is now using artificial intelligence to help screen for diabetic retinopathy, a diabetes complication that can damage vision.
Challenges and Future of Telemedan Kiosks
Telemedan’s expansion comes as Chad develops its wider digital health system. The National Digital Health Programme identifies digital health as a way to expand access to care. However, a Telemedan kiosk cannot provide emergency treatment or replace a hospital. The equipment must remain functional, connectivity has to be available, local operators need training, and doctors need to be available for consultations.
Each kiosk costs about $10,000, according to Abakar. Telemedan sells the units to governments and partner organizations, which then operate them. The model ensures patients are not bearing the cost of the infrastructure. Telemedan’s goal is to reach one million people in rural communities across sub-Saharan Africa.
“Telemedan aims to be a sustainable layer of healthcare infrastructure, not simply a collection of technology projects,” Abakar stated.
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