Docotela which means "doctor" in the Zulu language connects patients and providers online.

South African telehealth platform Docotela is striving to make medical access simpler, faster, and more affordable through an intuitive online interface. Founded in 2023 by entrepreneur Dineo Lioma, the service allows patients to consult with physicians registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) from their phone or computer, eliminating the need for travel.

"With our cutting-edge platform, we bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, delivering convenient and reliable medical services right to your fingertips," the startup stated. "We believe that by making healthcare more accessible and convenient, we can help people lead healthier, happier lives and ultimately extend their lifespan."

To use Docotela, a patient schedules a time slot, pays online, and receives a video link for the consultation. If medically necessary, the physician can then issue a prescription, a medical certificate, and a medication voucher. The platform offers various subscription plans, including individual and family options, alongside single-session consultations. It also provides mental health support, featuring online sessions with certified professional counselors for anxiety, depression, stress, and other emotional well-being issues.

The healthtech firm seeks to provide accessible consultations even in rural areas, contingent upon internet connectivity. By offering monthly subscriptions with unlimited consultations, Docotela helps users better manage healthcare expenditures.

However, the startup faces several key challenges. These include ensuring the diagnostic reliability of telemedicine, particularly for complex cases, guaranteeing the protection of personal data, and securing adequate internet access in remote regions. Furthermore, Docotela must convince South African health authorities, medical aids, and insurers to formally recognize and cover online consultations.

Adoni Conrad Quenum