Venus by OneHealth

We are addressing the limited access to affordable contraceptives in underserved areas, with a primary focus on Lagos State, Nigeria. This issue is emblematic of a broader challenge faced by women globally. It restricts their ability to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health and plan their families effectively.

In Nigeria, a country with a population of 200 million people, there are only 5,000 pharmacies, operating in just 25% of the nation. This severe lack of access to contraceptives is a staggering barrier that disproportionately affects women in underserved areas. The scale of this problem is enormous, not only within Lagos State but also on a global scale. In numerous underserved regions worldwide, women grapple with limited access to contraceptives, resulting in unintended pregnancies, inadequate family planning options, and a lack of control over their reproductive health. The consequences of this problem are profound, affecting not just individual women but entire communities and societies.

In Nigeria, low contraceptive usage rates are a pressing concern, with statistics indicating that only four out of every ten women use contraception. This statistic reflects a broader global issue, where many women in underserved areas are denied the right to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services. Factors contributing to this problem include: 

• Limited access to healthcare services in remote and underserved regions is a significant factor: In these areas, access to healthcare is often a luxury, and women are left without options for accessing contraceptives. 

• Financial barriers compound this issue, as many women cannot afford the cost of contraceptives even when they are available.  

• Lack of awareness about contraceptive options further hinders women's ability to make informed choices about their reproductive health.

Project Venus by OneHealth is a multifaceted initiative designed to provide affordable monthly contraceptives to women in underserved communities, with a primary focus on Lagos State, Nigeria. The project is composed of four key components, each aimed at addressing specific aspects of the challenge:

• Online Pharmacy Platform: We've developed a versatile online platform accessible through a mobile app, website, WhatsApp bot, and SMS service. This platform serves as the core of our solution, allowing women in underserved areas to effortlessly order contraceptives. It's like an online store for essential healthcare products, but with a special focus on contraceptives.
• Community Health Clinics: We have partnered with community health clinics across Lagos State to make contraceptives readily available to women. These clinics are strategically located in underserved areas and are easily accessible on foot or by public transportation. Women can visit these clinics to obtain contraceptives without the need for digital technology.
• Monthly Contraceptive Subscription: To ensure that women can receive contraceptives regularly without hassle, we offer a monthly contraceptive subscription service at these community health clinics. Women can sign up for the service, and the clinic staff will ensure that they receive their chosen contraceptive method each month. This eliminates the need for online ordering and technology use.
• Local Pharmacy Partnerships: In areas where community health clinics may not be readily accessible, we have established partnerships with local pharmacies. Women can visit these pharmacies to access contraceptives and get information from trained pharmacists who are knowledgeable about family planning.
• Education and Awareness: We recognize the importance of education and awareness in promoting family planning. Our dedicated healthcare workers and outreach programs conduct community sessions and workshops to provide women with accurate information about family planning and contraceptive options. Women can attend these sessions in their local communities to learn more about their sexual and reproductive health.

Venus  is not just about providing contraceptives; it's a holistic approach that combines technology, an extensive network of pharmacies, and educational outreach. We aim to empower women with control over their sexual and reproductive health, allowing them to make informed choices, plan their families, and ultimately enhance their overall well-being.

Project Venus is dedicated to serving women in underserved communities, primarily located in Lagos State, Nigeria. The target population we aim to directly and meaningfully improve are women who face a range of challenges and barriers that limit their access to affordable contraceptives and hinder their ability to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.

Who Are They?

Women between the ages of 16 - 45yrs, and are typically working class. These women share a common need for affordable and accessible contraceptives. Many of them reside in remote and underserved areas where access to healthcare services is limited. They often belong to communities where financial resources are scarce, and the cost of contraceptives can be a significant barrier. Furthermore, these women may lack awareness about the various contraceptive options available to them.

How Are They Currently Underserved?

• Limited Access: Many of these women reside in regions with few healthcare facilities, making it challenging to access contraceptives or other healthcare services.

• Financial Barriers: The cost of contraceptives can be prohibitive for women in underserved communities, creating a financial barrier to family planning.

• Lack of Awareness: These women do not have access to comprehensive information about contraceptive options and family planning, leading to uninformed choices.

How Will the Solution Address Their Needs?

• Improved Access: Our solution significantly improves access to affordable contraceptives for women in underserved areas. The online pharmacy platform ensures that they can easily order the contraceptives they need, and the network of pharmacies acts as physical touchpoints for pick-up and delivery.

• Affordability: We reduce the financial barrier by providing contraceptives at a significantly reduced cost. This empowers women to exercise their reproductive rights without the burden of high expenses.

• Convenience: Our local pharmacy partnership introduces convenience with free monthly refills. Women no longer need to worry about running out of contraceptives or repeatedly placing orders.

• Health Education: In addition to providing access to contraceptives, we implement a comprehensive outreach and education program. This program equips women with knowledge about contraceptive options and family planning, ensuring that they can make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.

By addressing these needs, our solution aims to make a profound impact on the lives of these women. It enables them to have greater control over their sexual and reproductive health, plan their families effectively, and ultimately lead healthier and more empowered lives. 

Our team at OneHealth is well-positioned to design and deliver "Project Venus" because of our deep understanding of the communities we serve, our commitment to inclusivity, and our track record of developing solutions that are guided by the input and needs of the communities we work with. We understand the importance of being closely connected to the target population and involving them in the design and implementation of our solution.

• Proximity to the Communities: Our team has strong ties to the communities we serve, particularly in Lagos State, Nigeria, where we have over 400 partner pharmacies that we work with. In addition, Our organization, OneHealth, has been operating in Nigeria for 4yrs plus, and our team members are embedded in the local culture and are dedicated to the welfare of the communities, where we have run health outreaches over varying kinds, with a special focus on women and children (over 2,000 lives).

• Community Engagement: We engage with community members, including women, local health providers, and organizations, in various ways to understand their needs. We conduct surveys, focus groups, and interviews to gather valuable insights. This direct engagement allows us to tailor our solution to the unique challenges and requirements of the communities we serve.

• Guided by Community Input: Our solution is meaningfully guided by the input and ideas of the communities we serve. We actively involve community members in the decision-making process, seeking their feedback on our platform's usability, the educational content we provide, and the outreach programs we conduct. Their input plays a crucial role in shaping our initiatives.

• Continuous Feedback Loop: We maintain a continuous feedback loop with the communities through various channels, ensuring that our solution remains relevant and responsive to their evolving needs. This approach enables us to adapt and improve our services based on real-time feedback and emerging requirements.

In summary, our team is uniquely positioned to deliver "Project Venus" because of our deep connections to the communities, our inclusive approach, and our commitment to actively involve community members in the design and implementation of our solution. We are not just external actors but active, engaged partners who are dedicated to improving the lives of the women in these underserved communities.

At OneHealth, we have in our network over 700+ pharmacy partners, 200+ logistic riders, and 10+ HMOs/providers, covering all 36 states in Nigeria, serving over 3,000+ customers and 10,000+ enrollees, and processing 4000/10,000+ prescriptions/items monthly. Onehealthng.com is a digital-first pharmacy for quality medicines and healthcare services for individuals and healthcare providers. OneHealth provides access to prescriptions and other healthcare services anywhere via an omnichannel e-commerce platform and APIs. 

OneHealth's approach to addressing healthcare challenges is deeply innovative and goes beyond the conventional norms in the field. We believe in a holistic approach to true therapeutic management and delivery, and here's why we stand out:

• Marketplace for Pharmacies: OneHealth has pioneered a unique marketplace that enables pharmacies to easily procure essential sexual and reproductive medicines and healthcare products. This approach streamlines the supply chain, ensuring that pharmacies, especially those in underserved areas, have access to the medicines they need. This innovation not only benefits our customers but also empowers local pharmacies by giving them a cost-effective and efficient way to source their inventory.
• APIs for Last-Mile Dispensing: Our groundbreaking use of APIs facilitates the seamless transmission of prescription orders. This technology-driven approach optimizes the last-mile dispensing process, ensuring that individuals in remote and underserved communities can receive their prescribed medications with ease. It's a game-changer in improving healthcare access, especially in regions where traditional processes have limitations.
• Personalized Treatment Goals: OneHealth leverages technology to personalize treatment goals for our users. By analyzing healthcare data and tailoring treatment plans, we go beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. This level of personalization is a significant innovation that caters to the unique needs of each individual, improving health outcomes and patient satisfaction.
• Tech Underpinning: Underpinning our solution is a combination of modern technologies, including e-commerce platforms, APIs, and data analytics. These technologies allow us to provide efficient services and gather critical data to continually improve our approach. It's a convergence of technologies and a new application of existing tools that make OneHealth a trailblazer in the healthcare industry.

In summary, OneHealth is a pioneer in taking a holistic approach to therapeutic management and delivery. Our use of technology, innovative business models, and personalized care sets us apart in the market. We are not just providing healthcare services; we're driving positive change and fostering a new era of healthcare accessibility and efficiency that can benefit not only our users but also the broader healthcare landscape.

Next Year (2024):

• Enhance Access to SRHR Services: In the next year, we aim to increase the availability and affordability of essential sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services, with a specific focus on contraceptives. Our goal is to achieve a 15% increase in access to these critical services in underserved communities.
• Empower Informed Decision-Making: To ensure young ladies/women in these communities have the knowledge and awareness needed to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health, we plan to reach and educate 30% more people about family planning and SRHR.

Five Years Plan:

• Transformation of SRHR Outcomes: Over the next five years, our overarching goal is to reduce the mortality rate attributed to SRHR-related issues by one-third, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 3.4. This represents a significant and transformative impact on the SRHR landscape in underserved areas.
• Universal Access to SRHR Services: Our long-term goal is to contribute to the achievement of universal access to SRHR services, including contraception, reproductive care, and comprehensive information. By 2028, we aim to achieve 80% coverage of essential SRHR services, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 3.8. This signifies a substantial increase in access to safe, effective, quality, and affordable essential SRHR services.

How We Plan to Achieve Them:

Our strategy for achieving these impact goals in the context of SRHR is as follows:

• Community Outreach and Education: Through community awareness events and workshops, we will focus on SRHR, providing individuals with the knowledge and understanding necessary for making informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
• Free/Affordable SRHR Services: We will expand our network of partner pharmacies and healthcare providers, ensuring that essential SRHR services and contraceptives are readily available and affordable in underserved areas.
• Personalized Care: Our platform will provide personalized information and support for individuals seeking SRHR services. This will involve working closely with healthcare providers to tailor services to meet the unique needs and preferences of each person.
• Policy Advocacy: OneHealth will engage in policy advocacy to support initiatives that promote SRHR access, affordability, and awareness in underserved communities.

In summary, our impact goals for the next year and the next five years in the context of SRHR are aimed at improving access, quality, and awareness of SRHR services. Through a combination of education, accessibility, personalization, data-driven insights, and policy advocacy, we aim to create a transformational impact on the sexual and reproductive health and rights of individuals in underserved communities, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 3.4 and 3.8 in the context of SRHR. These goals are not just aspirations but a commitment to enhancing the SRHR well-being of underserved communities.

Our theory of change for Venus by OneHealth is straightforward and firmly rooted in our mission to improve access to quality sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services for underserved communities. 

How Our Solution Addresses the Problem:

• Improved Access: Our platform provides a marketplace for pharmacies to procure essential SRHR products. This leads to an increase in the availability of contraceptives and other SRHR services in underserved areas. By making these products more accessible, we address the issue of limited access directly.
• Affordability: By streamlining the supply chain and leveraging technology, we help pharmacies reduce procurement costs, which can then be passed on to customers. The result is more affordable SRHR services, including contraceptives, making them accessible to a wider population.
• Education and Awareness: We conduct community outreach and education programs to inform individuals about family planning and SRHR. This empowers them to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. We believe that knowledge is the key to better choices.
• Personalized Care: Our platform offers personalized information and support for individuals seeking SRHR services. This ensures that each person's unique needs and preferences are considered, resulting in better health outcomes and greater satisfaction.

Expected Impact:

• Short-Term Outcomes: In the short term, we anticipate an increase in the availability and affordability of SRHR services and products in underserved communities. This will be reflected in the increased use of contraceptives and other SRHR services.
• Intermediate Outcomes: With improved access, affordability, and knowledge, we expect to see a decrease in unwanted pregnancies and a reduction in SRHR-related health issues, leading to improved health and well-being among our target population.
• Long-Term Outcomes: Over time, our intervention is expected to have a transformative impact. We aim to reduce the mortality rate attributed to SRHR-related issues by one-third, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 3.4. We also aim to achieve 80% coverage of essential SRHR services, in line with UN Sustainable Development Goal 3.8.

Evidence and Validation:

While our theory of change is rooted in our commitment and understanding of the problem, we continuously gather data and feedback to validate our impact. This includes monitoring service usage, conducting surveys and interviews with our target population, and seeking third-party research to evaluate our progress.

In summary, our solution, VenusbyOneHealth, directly addresses the problem of limited access to quality SRHR services in underserved communities. By improving access, affordability, knowledge, and personalization, we expect to see a positive impact in the form of reduced unwanted pregnancies, improved health, and, in the long term, a significant reduction in mortality attributed to SRHR-related issues. Our evidence-driven approach ensures that we are on track to achieve these goals.

Full-Time - 30

Part-Time - 25

Part-Time Contractors - 5

For the past four years, our unwavering commitment has been focused on the development and implementation of our solution. This timeframe reflects the duration of our dedication to tackling a crucial issue – the limited access to quality healthcare facilities, particularly in the context of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services, in underserved communities.

Our ongoing partnership with pharmacies and healthcare facilities throughout Nigeria serves as a tangible testament to the progress we've made during this period.

Our leadership team reflects our strong commitment to diversity. Currently, we are proud to have a leadership team where 70% of our key positions are held by women. This representation extends across various departments, encompassing different backgrounds, experiences, and expertise levels. Our leadership diversity allows us to draw from a wide range of perspectives, enhancing our decision-making and problem-solving processes.

Team Goals for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity:

1. Increasing Representation: We are actively working on expanding diversity within our team, particularly in areas where representation is currently underrepresented. Our goal is to ensure that our team composition better mirrors the diverse communities we aim to serve.

2. Promoting Equity: We are committed to providing equal opportunities and creating a supportive environment for all team members. This includes addressing disparities and removing barriers to advancement, ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities for growth.

3. Fostering Inclusivity: Inclusivity is central to our work culture. We are dedicated to creating an environment in which every team member feels welcomed, respected, supported, and valued. This extends not only to our internal team but also to our interactions with the communities we serve.

Actions Taken:

1. Training and Development: We invest in training and development programs that promote diversity and inclusivity awareness among our team members. These programs are designed to foster a greater understanding of different perspectives and experiences.

2. Open Communication: We encourage open and honest communication within our team, providing opportunities for team members to voice their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. This open dialogue helps us continually improve our inclusivity efforts.

3. Community Engagement: In the communities we serve, we prioritize engaging with diverse groups and understanding their unique needs and perspectives. This informs our service offerings and ensures they are tailored to the specific requirements of each community.

In summary, diversity, equity, and inclusivity are not just buzzwords for us; they are fundamental to our mission and the way we operate. We believe that a diverse and inclusive team is essential for effectively addressing the healthcare challenges we aim to tackle. Our 70% female leadership and 30% leadership across various departments with varying levels of expertise reflect our tangible commitment to diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued in our pursuit of improving healthcare access for all.

Our business model is designed to provide value to underserved communities by addressing the issue of limited access to quality healthcare services, particularly sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services. We strive to create positive impact and sustainable revenue streams for long-term success and scalability.

Key Customers and Beneficiaries:

1. Individuals and Families: Our primary beneficiaries are individuals and families in underserved communities who require access to essential healthcare services, including SRHR services. 
2. Businesses: In addition to individuals and healthcare providers, businesses seeking to offer healthcare solutions to their employees or customers can benefit from our platform. We provide a channel for businesses to access and provide healthcare services, ensuring the well-being of their workforce and clientele.
3. Healthcare Providers: They benefit from our platform, which streamlines their procurement process and enhances their ability to offer a wider range of services to their communities.

The Value We Provide:

• Accessibility: OneHealth enhances the accessibility of healthcare services, particularly SRHR services, for underserved communities. This value is evident through our network of partner pharmacies and the convenience of online ordering.
• Affordability: We contribute to affordability by optimizing the supply chain, enabling pharmacies to offer cost-effective services and products. This value addresses the financial barriers faced by many individuals and families.
• Education and Awareness: Our educational programs empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health. By providing accurate and relevant information, we support better choices and improved health outcomes.

Revenue Model:

We generate revenue by providing a digital infrastructure for patients, insurers, and pharmacies to  access quality medicines and healthcare solutions, leveragaing a network of providers.  We operate a multi-pronged business model, providing affordable crucial pharmaceutical supplies to individuals, HMOs, healthcare providers, and pharmacy outlets through our various platforms

Onehealthng.com  - A B2C  and B2B2C Online Pharmacy 
Pillfinda.co - A B2B Wholesale Marketplace for similar service providers
onewellnessapp.com : A B2C & B2B2C medication management app.
Pillmova.co : A logistics for operations for other service providers 

In summary, OneHealth's business model is structured to deliver value by addressing healthcare disparities in underserved communities. We provide accessible, affordable, and informative healthcare services through a digital-first pharmacy platform, benefiting both end users and healthcare providers. Our revenue model is diverse, ensuring the sustainability of our mission while keeping our services cost-effective and impactful.

Our plan for achieving financial sustainability revolves around a multifaceted revenue model. We intend to secure the necessary funds to support our mission of improving healthcare accessibility through the following channels:

1. Pharmaceutical Partnerships:
We are actively working on establishing partnerships with pharmaceutical companies. Through these partnerships, we will earn a commission on sales facilitated through our platform. This revenue-sharing model ensures that our growth is aligned with the success of our partners, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.

2. Health Insurance Providers:
In addition, we plan to collaborate with health insurance providers. By offering health insurance policies through our platform, we aim to earn a share of the premiums for policies sold. This approach not only generates revenue for us but also expands access to healthcare for our users, making it a win-win situation.

In the long term, our goal is to create a self-sustaining ecosystem where our revenue streams fully cover our operational costs. By providing valuable healthcare services and solutions while simultaneously generating income, we can ensure the longevity and scalability of our mission to improve healthcare accessibility in Nigeria. This approach allows us to reduce our reliance on sustained donations and grants and work towards financial independence.