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Data-Driven Growth: How The Advantage Solution Is Reshaping Pharmacy Practices Across Africa

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1 year ago

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Are you a pharmacy owner or manager who wants to grow your business and practice while providing better healthcare access to your community?

Do you want to leverage the power of technology and data to optimize your operations, increase your revenue, and enhance your patient outcomes?

If yes, then you need to know about The Advantage, a solution that is transforming the pharma and healthcare sectors in Africa from the bottom up.

The Problems in the Pharma and Healthcare Sectors in Africa
The pharma and healthcare sectors in Africa face many challenges, such as low profitability, poor access, and lack of data.

According to the World Health Organization, Africa accounts for only 2% of the global pharmaceutical market, despite having 16% of the world’s population and 25% of the global disease burden.

Moreover, the continent suffers from a shortage of healthcare workers, facilities, and equipment, resulting in low quality and high cost of care. Furthermore, there is a scarcity of reliable and timely data on the health status, needs, and preferences of the population, making it difficult to design and implement effective interventions.

Advantage Health Africa launches The Advantage to help pharmacies accelerate their businesses in Nigeria

One of the reasons for these problems is that we mostly do not perceive healthcare from the eyes of the patients. We have so far seen healthcare from our professional eyes and that is why we have not explored the boundless opportunities of the ‘consuming’ behaviour of the people we serve.

As the first port of call for patients at the community level, there is a wealth of untapped opportunities embedded in collaborating with community pharmacies. Additionally, many pharmacies have not positioned themselves to optimise these opportunities!


The Advantage Solution
The Advantage Solution is a product of Advantage Health Africa, a health solution company that provides technology products and services to promote access to affordable and quality healthcare across Africa.

The Advantage Solution is not a software as a service, but a solution that deals with the problems in the pharma and healthcare sectors from the bottom up by empowering community pharmacies as the first port of call for patients. It offers the following features and benefits:

Real-time management and insights for pharmacy operations including procurement, branding, staff management, sales, inventory and patient data management. The Advantage Solution helps pharmacies to automate and streamline their workflows, reduce errors and wastage, and improve efficiency and productivity.

Predictive capabilities for disease prevalence and consumer behaviour. The Advantage Solution uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyse data and generate insights that can help pharmacies to anticipate and respond to the health needs and preferences of their customers, as well as to identify and mitigate potential risks and opportunities.

Access to a platform for interoperability between different healthcare players. The Advantage Solution connects pharmacies to a network of other stakeholders in the healthcare industry, such as health maintenance organizations (HMOs), healthcare innovators, global funders, regulators, health and financial institutions, big pharma and distributors, and investors.

This enables pharmacies to access a wider market, offer more services, and collaborate on solutions that can improve and accelerate the healthcare ecosystem.

Access to consolidated data and a stronger distribution network. The Advantage Solution aggregates data from thousands of pharmacies across Africa, creating a rich and reliable source of information that can inform decision-making and policy-making.

It also leverages a robust and efficient distribution system that can ensure the availability and affordability of high-quality medicines and products.

By using The Advantage Solution, pharmacies can grow their businesses and practice, while serving multiple stakeholders in the healthcare industry.

Potential Impacts
The Advantage Solution has the potential to create a positive impact on the healthcare ecosystem in Africa, by reaching the following milestones:

10,000 Pharmacies in Africa: The Advantage Solution aims to onboard 10,000 pharmacies across Africa, creating a network of trusted and reliable healthcare providers that can serve millions of customers.

50 Million Patients’ Data: The Advantage Solution aims to collect and analyse data from 50 million patients across Africa, creating a valuable and comprehensive database that can inform and improve healthcare delivery and policy.

N2Bn Additional Revenue: The Advantage Solution aims to generate N2Bn additional revenue for the pharmacies that use the platform, creating a sustainable and profitable business model that can support the growth and development of the pharma and healthcare sectors in Africa.

AI-Powered: The Advantage Solution uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to provide smart and innovative solutions that can enhance the performance and efficiency of the pharmacies and the healthcare system.

Integrated Care: The Advantage Solution enables integrated care, by connecting pharmacies to other healthcare players and facilitating collaboration and coordination of care across the continuum.

FAQS
Is it free for Pharmacies to come on board?

Yes, it’s free. The Advantage Solution does not charge any upfront or subscription fees for pharmacies to join the platform.

How does Aha! make money from this?

Our growth is in the growth of the Pharmacies we work with. When they grow, we grow! We will be charging a tiny percentage of their revenue (1 to 2%) which can be factored to their margins.

Can the Pharmacies add more products to the Universal list?
Yes, they can. However, the products will be reviewed and approved by the Super Admin.
Is there a mobile version?
Right now, we have the web version. The mobile version will be out in the next couple of months.

Can this version be used by distributors, wholesalers etc?
For now, we are focused on the retail pharmacies. This version may come up later. For now, we simply want to plug in their API’s. However, we will be working on a value-added platform for big pharma, distributors and wholesalers to reach the pharmacies for a more structured and data-driven supply of medicines.

How do we ensure data security and privacy?
We have a robust data protection policy and a competent tech team to ensure cybersecurity.

We comply with the relevant laws and regulations on data protection and privacy, and we do not share or sell any personal or sensitive data without consent.

What is our plan to penetrate the pharmacies in rural areas?
Our vision is Africa-wide. We have a robust field force and business model, positioned to take the nooks and crannies of Nigeria and Africa.

We use various channels and strategies to reach out and onboard pharmacies in rural areas, such as referrals, partnerships, incentives, and awareness campaigns.

Can individuals plug in to order their medicines?
We have a solution for that, myMedicines. myMedicines is a platform that aggregates reputable pharmacies across Nigeria and delivers high quality medicine to customers through logistics and telepharmacy.

It also serves as a pharmacy benefit service for health maintenance organizations (HMOs) in Nigeria. myMedicines will plug in its API backend where last mile persons can have access to the medications on THE ADVANTAGE.

In one sentence, what is our Unique Selling Point?
Our USP is creating a solution that provides access to growth, market, interoperability between different healthcare players and opportunities for retail pharmacies to accelerate their businesses and practice.

We accelerate growth of Pharmacies through access to market and operational success.

Conclusion
The Advantage Solution is a game-changer for the pharma and healthcare sectors in Africa. It empowers community pharmacies to become the concierge of wellness in delivering holistic care while driving sustainability and profitability in their businesses.

It also connects pharmacies to a platform that offers access to a world of opportunities for other healthcare players that will further improve and accelerate the healthcare ecosystem.

If you are a pharmacy owner or manager who wants to join The Advantage Solution, or if you are a healthcare stakeholder who wants to partner with us, please sign up for our waitlist.

You can also follow us on our social media handles for more updates and information. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the solution that is transforming healthcare in Africa.

Join The Advantage Solution today!

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31 electricity towers affected as vandals destroy transmission lines in Edo communities

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2 days ago

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November 23, 2024 9:54 am

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The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) says vandals in Benin, Edo state, have destroyed 31 transmission towers.

In a statement on Friday, Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s director of public affairs, confirmed that vandals attacked transmission towers in Okada and Ofosu communities along the 330kV Benin-Egbin and Benin-Omotosho transmission lines.

Mbah said the vandalised towers, which suffered significant damage with critical components removed earlier in November, were discovered by TCN linesmen during a routine patrol.

“A total of 31 towers were affected in this incident,” she said.

“TCN engineers from the Benin Sub-Region have initiated repairs to prevent the collapse of the affected towers and to avoid disruption of bulk power supply.”

‘AHOADA-YENAGOA LINE UNDER REPAIR TARGETED BY VANDALS’

Mbah also said its Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV line, which was under repair following a previous attack, was once again targeted by vandals.

The TCN spokesperson confirmed that the attack, which occurred on November 19, affected towers 29 to 31 and resulted in the theft of approximately one-third of the conductor.

On August 14, TCN announced that Bayelsa state would face a prolonged power outage following the destruction of 13 transmission towers along the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV double circuit transmission line by vandals.

The transmission company, on October 29, reported that 65 percent of the damaged transmission towers had been repaired.

The company said 17 transmission towers had been successfully erected, with work continuing on the remaining three.

“A team of TCN engineers, led by Engr. Emmanuel Akpa, General Manager of the Port Harcourt Region, has conducted an inspection of the site,” the statement reads.

“Preliminary findings indicate that the incident occurred at night. In an attempt to prevent further theft while repair arrangements are being made, local security has been engaged at Ula Ikata in Ahoada East LGA to secure the site until repairs are completed.

“Additionally, the line will be energized from the Ahoada end as a preventive measure.”

Mbah added that efforts are underway to replace the stolen 250mm conductor.

Despite challenges posed by difficult terrain and flooding, she said the restringing of the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV line is approximately 85 percent complete.

The public relations officer stressed that the incidents underscore the urgent need to address the growing problem of vandalism and theft, which continue to affect Nigeria’s power infrastructure.

She urged the public to support efforts to tackle such criminal acts, which have hindered the expansion and stability of the national grid.

Mbah also called on security operatives and local communities to remain vigilant in protecting power infrastructure in their areas as TCN intensifies its efforts to safeguard its installations.

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Business

NCAA issues aerodrome certification for Lagos, Abuja international airports

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2 days ago

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November 23, 2024 7:40 am

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The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued Aerodrome Certification for Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

This recertification is a significant achievement, highlighting the ongoing improvements in the safety standards of Nigeria’s international airports.

The announcement was conveyed via a post on the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Friday.

The Aerodrome Certificates were formally presented to the Managing Director/Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, by the Acting Director General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo.

“@NigeriaCAA just issued Aerodrome Certification for the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport Abuja. The recertification is a major boost and attestation to the continued improvements of the safety standard of our Airports,” the tweet read in part.

The certification confirms that Lagos and Abuja airports adhere to the strict safety, operational, and technical standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This milestone is anticipated to enhance trust among domestic and international airlines, strengthening Nigeria’s standing in global aviation.

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Business

Lagos state government plans traffic diversion in Ikeja for 10km Capital City Race today

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2 days ago

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November 23, 2024 7:19 am

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The Lagos State Government has announced plans for a traffic diversion to accommodate the 10km Capital City Race scheduled for Saturday, November 23, 2024.

The race, which runs between 5:00 AM and 11:00 AM, will affect several major roads in the Ikeja axis, requiring motorists to explore alternative routes during the event.

A statement published on the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, on Friday, highlighted the affected routes.

These include Shoprite Alausa, Billings Way, Kudirat Abiola Way, Opebi Link Bridge, Allen Avenue, Adeniyi Jones, and Oba Akran Avenue.

The race will conclude at the Police College Sports Secretariat/Gym. Junctions and intersections along these roads will be temporarily blocked and manned by officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Lagos State Neighborhood Corps (LSNC) to ensure a smooth event.

“The Lagos State Government has announced that traffic will be diverted to accommodate the maiden edition of the 10-kilometer Capital City Race between 5:00 am and 11.00 am tomorrow Saturday,  23rd November,  2024. 

“To this end, the following route starting from; Shoprite Alausa Ikeja inwards Billings Way to Kudirat Abiola Way, Opebi Link Bridge, Opebi Glo Tower inward Allen Avenue, Allen Junction, GTBank on Adeniyi Jones,  AP Filling Station on Oba Akran Avenue, Samsung Authorized Service Centre to Police College Sports Secretariat/Gym will be partially closed off to vehicular movement. 

“Consequently, all junctions and intersections from Shoprite Alausa Ikeja to the destination (Police College Sports Secretariat/Gym) will be blocked with barriers, manned by LASTMA, NPF, FRSC, and LSNC to prevent other road users access to the main race corridor,” the statement read in part.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation urged motorists to remain patient as the road closures are part of the traffic management plan for the event. He added that intersections will be intermittently reopened as the race progresses to minimize inconvenience for road users.

Motorists are advised to plan their movements accordingly and cooperate with traffic officials to ensure the success of the inaugural Capital City Race.

In addition to the planned traffic diversion in Ikeja for the 10km Capital City Race, other traffic diversions are currently in effect across Lagos to accommodate critical infrastructure projects.

The Lagos State Government recently announced a 15-month traffic diversion at Mile 2, which began on November 11, 2024, to facilitate the construction of the new Transport Interchange Terminal. This project aims to integrate rail, bus, water, and non-motorized transport, addressing the city’s growing transportation needs.

The diversion affects Loop 1 on the Apapa-bound lane and Loop 4 on the Badagry-bound lane and will last until February 16, 2026. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes, such as Akinwande Road for Badagry-bound traffic and Durban Road for Apapa-bound traffic, to ease congestion.

Additionally, a three-month traffic diversion on the Marine Bridge, outbound Apapa, commenced on Monday, November 18, 2024. This diversion, set to run until February 25, 2025, is to allow for urgent asphalt repairs overseen by the Federal Ministry of Works.

Motorists heading toward Lagos Island are advised to use the Eko Bridge via Costain Roundabout, while those heading to Ijora Causeway or Iddo can navigate through Ijora 7up or other designated routes.

These diversions are part of ongoing efforts by the Lagos State Government to improve transportation infrastructure while minimizing disruption for road users.

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Bodex F. Hungbo, SPMIIM is a multiple award-winning Nigerian Digital Media Practitioner, Digital Strategist, PR consultant, Brand and Event Expert, Tv Presenter, Tier-A Blogger/Influencer, and a top cobbler in Nigeria.

She has widespread experiences across different professions and skills, which includes experiences in; Marketing, Media, Broadcasting, Brand and Event Management, Administration and Management with prior stints at MTN, NAPIMS-NNPC, GLOBAL FLEET OIL AND GAS, LTV, Silverbird and a host of others

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