Access to diagnostic healthcare remains a significant challenge for millions across Africa. Recent data shows that nearly 47% of the global population lacks access to proper diagnostic tools. In Africa, only 30% of health facilities are equipped to perform basic diagnostic tests, with rural and marginalised communities facing the most significant difficulties. These gaps, driven by inadequate funding, lack of prioritisation, and scarce resources, often delay treatment and lead to preventable health crises. However, in 2021, a Nigerian entrepreneur, Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson, founded Healthtracka to provide an at-home lab testing service and make diagnostics accessible and affordable- in response to this challenge.
Healthtracka addresses one of the biggest barriers to health management by bringing healthcare services directly to people’s homes. The company also supports hospitals, pharmacies, and telehealth providers by offering the infrastructure to deliver at-home blood testing services.
The vision behind Healthtracka stems from a tragic personal experience. When Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson lost her father to complications from undiagnosed hypertension and diabetes, she saw the devastating consequences of delayed diagnosis. Despite appearing healthy, his conditions went undetected due to a lack of routine health checks.
That heartbreaking loss motivated her to create a service that prioritises early detection and helps prevent such outcomes. Her determination to improve access to diagnostics is driven by a desire to ensure others do not face similar tragedies.
The startup’s model eliminates the need for patients to visit labs or clinics for routine tests. Users can book a test online and have test samples collected at home. They will receive results digitally within days. This process saves time, reduces travel costs, and encourages regular checkups.
The convenience of at-home testing also helps bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare access, especially for those who face long commutes or lack reliable transportation. Healthtracka’s user-friendly system has delivered over 25,000 tests across Nigeria, identifying undiagnosed conditions and prompting early intervention.
The company’s reach is growing beyond Nigeria. In 2021, it participated in the Techstars Toronto accelerator, which provided mentorship and funding to help it scale operations. The $1.5 million seed funding raised in 2022 aided in deepening its presence within Nigeria and launching services in Ghana and Kenya. Each country presents unique challenges, from adapting the service to local healthcare systems to building trust in new markets. However, the health tech founder remains optimistic that Healthtracka’s proven model will positively impact Africa.
Dare-Johnson’s model highlights the importance of addressing key barriers to healthcare in Africa. Traditional healthcare systems remain inaccessible due to cost and time constraints. While that problem persists, Healthtracka’s at-home testing service allows individuals to easily manage their health, fostering a culture of proactive care. The company uses technology to ensure that people from diverse backgrounds can access quality diagnostics regardless of location.
Its impact is steadily growing. With over 25,000 tests delivered, its expansion into countries like Ghana and Kenya signals a bold step towards reimagining healthcare access across Africa.
Through Healthtracka, Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson offers a practical and convenient healthcare solution that addresses rural and marginalised communities’ challenges when diagnostic services are unavailable. By improving individual health outcomes, it also sets an inspiring example of how innovative healthcare solutions can transform lives.
