The healthcare industry is experiencing a profound evolution, fueled by a surge of innovative startups introducing solutions such as telehealth platforms, on-demand pharmacy deliveries, and affordable micro-insurance offerings. Despite these advancements, a significant portion of the population-particularly those outside formal healthcare systems or lacking conventional insurance-still faces considerable barriers to obtaining quality medical services.
In response to these ongoing issues, Nigerian health technology innovators like WellaHealth are pioneering novel approaches to broaden healthcare accessibility not only within Nigeria but across the African continent.
Established in 2018, WellaHealth introduced ZOI-embed, a cutting-edge digital tool designed to seamlessly integrate into the digital ecosystems users already engage with. This plug-and-play solution allows companies to embed health insurance options directly into their existing platforms or services.
Samuel Okpo, WellaHealth’s Chief Technology Officer, shared with Techpoint Africa, “ZOI-embed empowers users to obtain medical consultations, access Nigeria’s largest digital pharmacy network, order prescribed medications, and request laboratory tests-all without leaving the host application.”
ZOI-embed’s adaptability spans multiple sectors including financial technology, online retail, and transportation, enabling these industries to effortlessly provide micro-health insurance and related healthcare services to their customers.
The Mechanics Behind ZOI-embed
Companies integrate WellaHealth’s API into their digital platforms, a process that generally takes less than 48 hours. Once embedded, users can conveniently access healthcare services via websites, mobile applications, social media channels, or even SMS.
Okpo explains, “ZOI operates as a native feature within your platform. Businesses can choose to reveal the third-party provider or opt for a white-label solution that perfectly matches their brand’s look and feel.”
This embedded system offers a spectrum of health plans-from basic coverage such as malaria protection, WellaHealth’s signature micro-insurance product, to comprehensive packages that include doctor consultations, diagnostic tests, and chronic disease management. Pricing and plan structures are customized to meet the unique demands of each company’s clientele.
Enrollment follows standard Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and safeguard user data.
Supported by a robust healthcare network, WellaHealth’s embedded services integrate smoothly with existing payment options including credit/debit cards, digital wallets, bank transfers, and subscription billing. Payment schedules can be monthly or annual, with a revenue-sharing framework benefiting partner organizations.
“After a customer purchases a health plan through ZOI, WellaHealth manages the entire healthcare delivery process, including lab referrals and free medication delivery from partner pharmacies once payment is confirmed,” Okpo adds.
Leading Nigerian companies such as Palmpay, MTN, and Airtel have already adopted ZOI-embed, leveraging negotiated pricing to serve their vast user communities.
Expansion Plans and Future Obstacles
Beyond enhancing healthcare accessibility, ZOI-embed acts as a strategic channel for WellaHealth to unlock fresh distribution avenues and diversify its income streams.
This embedded approach allows the company to extend its reach beyond conventional healthcare consumers, tapping into industries such as fintech, telecom, and logistics.
While only a few African health-tech firms have successfully scaled this embedded model-giving WellaHealth a distinct competitive edge-it also introduces challenges. Reliance on third-party platforms can limit direct customer interaction and restrict access to critical user insights.
Additionally, to encourage partner adoption, WellaHealth shares revenue with host platforms, which may lead to narrower profit margins compared to direct-to-consumer sales.
With over seven years of industry experience and a network exceeding 2,500 healthcare partners nationwide, WellaHealth leverages its extensive ecosystem to accelerate the uptake of ZOI-embed.
The company’s tailored insurance products, supported by a complimentary ROI calculator, offer customized solutions aligned with each partner’s business objectives.
By embedding its services within platforms where users already spend significant time-beyond traditional pharmacies, patients, and insurers-WellaHealth is redefining healthcare delivery. The long-term viability of this initiative will hinge on balancing partner incentives, user satisfaction, and sustainable pricing strategies.