URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay
- Rwanda
- For-profit, including B-Corp or similar models
Delayed healthcare service delivery represents a significant challenge across healthcare facilities, attributable to a variety of factors including those related to patients, institutional structures, and healthcare providers. A comparative study on the queuing systems within the medical outpatient departments of two public hospitals in Pakistan in March 2020 highlighted that over 65% of patients experienced delays at the reception area, both before and after their medical consultations, primarily for registration and payment-related activities. This phenomenon mirrors the situation in Rwanda, where grassroots research conducted in three of the busiest district hospitals revealed that over 75% of patients identified the main cause of delay as the queue for bill payments. Furthermore, patients expressed concerns over the affordability of healthcare, despite the presence of a well-functioning community-based health insurance system, often finding themselves short of money to cover their bills.
Moreover, according to the data from our local context, a grass root research conducted in 3 busiest district hospitals in Rwanda; over 75% of patients reported that the main cause of delay at the hospital is due to bills payment queue. They also raised the issue that they are unable to pay most bills due to getting short of money and up to 98% claiming a need for a technological solution which can fasten hospital bills payment and enable them to save money for future use to pay health bill which are all addressed through our URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay.
Open Clinic Electronic Medical Record system has provided strong areas supporting patient admissions, medical records, medication administration, clinical data repository, statistical analysis, test results, pharmacy and hospital supply management, order communication, and financial management records. However, the line of payment, which is reported by patients to be time-consuming, uncomfortable, conflicts arising during payment communication with the cashier, costly papers and doctors and health care providers waiting for the patient to clear his/her payment, is still a problem in the healthcare system where patients report to spend almost half of their time at the hospital clearing their medical payment.
In Rwanda, the implementation of the Open Clinic Electronic Medical Record system has significantly enhanced several areas of healthcare delivery, including patient admissions, medical records management, medication administration, clinical data storage, statistical analysis, test results, pharmacy, hospital supply management, order communication, and financial management. Despite these advancements, the payment process remains a bottleneck, characterized by time-consuming waits, uncomfortable interactions, conflicts during payment communication with cashiers, the high cost of paperwork, and delays caused as doctors and healthcare providers await patient payments. A study conducted at the CHUK in 2019 revealed that on average, patients spent about 2.5 hours in the hospital settling their bills.
Research indicates that up to 70% of healthcare-related queues could be mitigated through the adoption of well-designed, contextually appropriate technology solutions. Such solutions would facilitate faster hospital bill payments, conserve resources for future emergency medical bills, and provide valuable data for informed decision-making.
With our solution; URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay card and its automated electronic billing and payment systems we are curbing the costly and delayed healthcare payments. The card offers quick and smart billing and payment by taping the card on a machine thus cutting the queues, allowing individuals to save money on the card that they will tap in case of illness and allows institutions/government/hospitals to fund individual healthcare costs directly on the card allowing patients to even get treated on credit.
In fact, It is not only a working prototype but it is a new application of an existing technology of tap & go (automated tapping a card to pay for bus fare) which registered a success in the Rwandan transport system. We are using GPS and internet of things tech to curb the lengthy and unaffordable medical bills payment process.
Moreover, URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay card and its machine-based tech solution helps patients to top-up money on their cards that will facilitate them to pay their percentage (depending on the insurance they use) for the services given at the hospital. The hospitals will be able to use money on cards assigned to them and use them as the capital to sustain their healthcare services. Money left on the card of a patient after discharge will be retrievable for use in the next hospital visit. With the cards, healthcare is quick and affordable!
The URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay system is a tech based medical billing and payment project that is leveraging technology to add value to lives of underserved households through quick bills notification and payment and enhancing affordability due to ability to save on the card and options for funder or credit based healthcare services. We use digital data of patients healthcare consumptions and devices which despite proven flexibility relies on and uses digital technology
Technically, During check-in, patients provide their personal and insurance information. Every medical service: including consultation, medical/laboratory examinations, and medical procedures will be paid at each respective exit of the service department using the URUKUNDO Tap & Pay card on the payment machine. Their medical billing reports will be generated and then sent to a medical coder and translated into an actual medical billing code of which the patient will pay directly from the card which also shows the balance instantly.
We are using tech to bring impact to millions of underserved patients in Rwanda with potential to scale globally with our solution of a tap & pay card to speed up hospital bill payment and ability to save funds on the card for future payment to fuel affordability of healthcare services.
Lastly, Our solution; URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay is technically feasible. The underlying technology is already in existence and has been proven in other contexts like the transportation system in Rwanda where we have Tap&Go where people pay bus fares by just tapping a card on the machine and can easily top up the card with funds.
Our target population are underserved Rwandans visiting different healthcare facilities like hospitals, clinics and health centers. They are lower class to middle class Rwandans who live on wages and live because they went to work. Spending the whole day at the hospital not waiting for the doctor but just on payment queue kills their working day and thus they are not able to eat on that day. Consequently, those delays make them choose not to go to the hospital until they reach advanced stages of illness leading to increased mortality and morbidity.
Moreover, since most are poor, despite having community based health insurance, they get short of cash and can't pay some hospital bills, thus needing a card to save on for future bills payment. It is really challenging for them to save liquid cash to be used for future payment of the hospital bills and as it is so hard for them to save that money in cash as long as they have other expenses to cover. Our solution will help them to spend less time while waiting to pay and the hospital saved time will help them to do their daily activities within the community.
We are the right people to develop our solution of URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay because we are medical doctors who receive everyday those vulnerable patients and witness the delays and challenges they meet. Our social enterprise was founded in 2019 and is led by medical doctors and especially our team lead Dr. Christelle GIRANEZA, the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer, we have dedicated ourselves to innovatively supporting vulnerable populations through innovation.
Moreover, our team is made of people of diverse backgrounds including IT, graphic and software designs positioning us to compete in the digital world. Every step of the development, design, launch and implementation of our solution was guided by our target population who tested and approved our prototype and provided regular feedback driving our continuous product improvement.
In short, Our solution was designed with and for the underserved communities and was inspired by human centered design and a grassroot research in 4 busiest district hospitals. Our solution team is made of medical doctors and IT personnels demonstrating the close proximity we have with the community of underserved and vulnerable patients thus we ensure equity and inclusion in our solution URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay.
Throughout the development process, community engagement has been central to our approach. We have actively sought input from stakeholders, including patients, healthcare providers, and community leaders. Their feedback has been invaluable in shaping the design and functionality of our solution. By incorporating their perspectives and ideas, we ensure that URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay meets the genuine needs of those it serves.
In essence, our solution is a product of collaboration and co-creation with the communities it aims to benefit. From the initial concept to the final implementation, every step has been guided by the voices and experiences of the underserved. By prioritizing equity and inclusion, we are not just delivering a product but fostering empowerment and agency within the communities we serve. URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay is not just a solution; it is a testament to our commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of the vulnerable.
By incorporating the input, ideas, and agendas of the communities we serve, we have created a solution that is not only technically robust but also deeply meaningful and impactful. Our team's proximity to these communities, both through our medical expertise and our direct engagement with patients, ensures that equity and inclusion are at the forefront of everything we do. With URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay, we are not just delivering a solution; we are building a brighter, healthier future for all.
- Increase access to and quality of health services for medically underserved groups around the world (such as refugees and other displaced people, women and children, older adults, and LGBTQ+ individuals).
- 1. No Poverty
- 3. Good Health and Well-Being
- 10. Reduced Inequalities
- Prototype
We have now built a working prototype. The prototype has been tested in 1015 people visiting the Remera Health Centre (the most crowded health center in Kigali)
1015 customers were served and over 90% demonstrated quick adoption of the product and positive feedback. The card cutted out the queue and made the health services more affordable.
The URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay system represents a significant innovation, designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing Open Clinic and OpenMRS frameworks, thereby streamlining and accelerating the medical billing process. This system was recently put to the test at the Remera Health Centre in Kigali, one of the busiest healthcare facilities in the area, catering to over 150 individuals daily. Of the 1,015 customers who interacted with the prototype, an overwhelming 90% quickly adapted to and provided positive feedback on the new system. Notably, it has effectively reduced waiting times and made healthcare services more accessible and affordable, particularly benefiting individuals with chronic diseases such as non-communicable diseases and mental health conditions, who require regular medication refills. These patients, who often need to manage their finances tightly around their healthcare needs, now have the option to deposit small savings in advance, ensuring they can afford their subsequent medical consultations and medication without any barriers.
In addition to financial support, our solution; URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay, now needs technical and market support to make the first Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and to scale it across Rwanda and Africa. Our intention is not just to raise funds. We are seeking mentorship with experienced technical experts to finetune our prototype into a robust automated medical billing cards based system. The same mentorship is also needed to market the product for scale and adoption widely.
Our solution is now a tested and working prototype, but we are targeting to turn into the first MVP minimum viable product to achieve that we need financial means as our ideas fall into a tech solution. The implementation of our ideas into tangible products will need multidisciplinary support to work hand in hand in order to have a good product. However, we need financial investment to invest in it. Moreover we are not just looking for the money. We need strong mentorship as well as various stakeholders to invest in our solution through other financial advice and mentorship.
Furthermore, the successful implementation of our solution requires input from a diverse range of technical experts, including IT professionals, medical doctors, economists, and policymakers. In Rwanda, the utilization of tap-and-go cards in transportation has effectively addressed numerous challenges. However, as we propose a new solution for the healthcare sector, it is imperative to engage legal advisors to ensure compliance and prevent potential malpractice. This entails safeguarding the confidentiality of information and payment processes for clients, necessitating technical guidance from legal experts and relevant stakeholders.
One of the primary hurdles we encounter is the prevailing mindset favoring traditional cash payments among Rwandans. To overcome this, we plan to conduct robust advertising campaigns in collaboration with various partners, instilling confidence in our product's ability to address the aforementioned challenges. Although existing payment solutions such as mobile money (Momo Pay) and credit cards are present in Rwanda, we anticipate competition upon introducing our new product. However, with strong mentorship and financial backing, we aim not only to compete but also to integrate our solution with existing platforms, ultimately capturing a significant market share.
Through strategic partnerships, we aim to launch a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for testing, followed by the release of the final product. This collaborative approach will ensure the viability and effectiveness of our solution in addressing healthcare payment challenges in Rwanda.
- Human Capital (e.g. sourcing talent, board development)
- Product / Service Distribution (e.g. delivery, logistics, expanding client base)
- Technology (e.g. software or hardware, web development/design)
Our solution; URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay approaches the problem of time consuming and unaffordable health care bills payment in a new and improved way. We are using just a card both to save for the bills and to pay instantly and quickly. We are bridging the gaps of traditional approaches of queues and paperwork and approaching the problem in a smarter and quicker way.
Moreover, we have a realistic and practical plan for implementing the solution in our context and we catalyze broader positive impacts from others in this space. This is explained by the fact that our technology works well with hospital institutions, electronic medical records and health management information systems and informs the financial implications to healthcare.
Our solution URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay has a clear plan for financial viability because we will be getting a profit margin of 0.1% on every transaction occurring on the card and the funds saved on the card will be available for investments and further growth. We as well have a sound plan to scale the solution to positively affect the lives of more people not only in Rwanda but also in Africa as they share the common problem of time consuming and unaffordable healthcare payments. What sets URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay apart is its simplicity and convenience. Rather than relying on outdated methods, such as cash or manual bank transfers, our solution leverages cutting-edge technology to offer a seamless payment experience. Users can easily save funds for their healthcare expenses on the card and access them instantly when needed, eliminating the need for complex financial transactions.
Furthermore, our approach is not only innovative but also highly practical. We have developed a comprehensive plan for implementation that integrates seamlessly with existing hospital systems, electronic medical records, and health management information systems. This ensures compatibility and ease of use for both healthcare providers and patients, facilitating widespread adoption of our solution.
By catalyzing broader positive impacts within the healthcare space, URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay has the potential to transform the market landscape. By providing a more efficient and affordable payment solution, we empower individuals to access the healthcare they need without undue financial burden. This not only improves individual well-being but also contributes to overall public health outcomes by ensuring timely access to medical care.
For scalability, URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay has ambitious plans to extend its impact beyond Rwanda to other parts of Africa facing similar healthcare payment challenges. By addressing a common pain point shared by millions, our solution has the potential to improve the lives of countless individuals across the continent. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we aim to leverage our technology to create positive change on a larger scale.
Overall, URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay represents a significant advancement in the way healthcare payments are managed. By combining innovation with practicality and scalability, we are not only revolutionizing the payment process but also paving the way for broader positive impacts in the healthcare space
According to the data from Rwanda Ministry of Health, every day 770,000 people go to hospitals, health centers and health posts. Each of those people spends at least 5 hours at the hospital wasting most time on the payment block due to the queue and shortage of cash while they only spend 15-30 minutes with a medical doctor! Our solution has an impact on the problem by challenging this status quo and reversing the statistics leading to the output of reduction of time spent at the hospital, making bills affordable and maximizing the time with the doctor thus unlocking the outcomes of improved health of target population, financial stability due to the cutted out hospital burden and the overall socio-economic development of Rwanda and other countries which will adapt our solution.
To begin, talking of the main activities, the URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay card and automated bills payment system encompass a range of key activities vital to its functionality. These include card and machine production, device and system maintenance, as well as financial analytics and coordination efforts. Such comprehensive engagement ensures smooth operation and effective management of the system.
Moreover, for the output of our solution, the benefits derived from our solution extend beyond mere convenience. While reducing the time spent in hospitals and making bills more manageable, it also optimizes the duration of interaction with medical professionals. This dual focus on efficiency and accessibility enhances the overall healthcare experience for individuals.
Ultimately, the impact of our solution transcends immediate conveniences. It directly contributes to the betterment of public health by improving the well-being of the target population. Additionally, by alleviating financial burdens associated with hospital visits, it fosters greater financial stability among users. Moreover, the broader adoption of our solution not only benefits Rwanda but also holds potential for socio-economic development in other nations. By facilitating streamlined healthcare transactions, our system lays a foundation for progress and prosperity in diverse communities.
We aim to scale that with the new voices being millions of poor and vulnerable Rwandans and Africans battling with lengthy and time consuming processes of paying hospital and healthcare bills as well as inadequate funds to pay for those expenses.
In the end, we are removing barriers to healthcare financial inclusion by making healthcare affordable to even the poorest and vulnerable communities in Rwanda. Moreover, we are placing strong emphasis on learning by teaching financial literacy to the users of URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay and enabling them to save funds on their cards which will be used to pay healthcare expenses.
URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay evidently expects a transformational impact on people’s lives. As detailed in this passage, our impact goals include but are not limited to reduction in time patients spend paying hospital bills, reduction of “short-of-cash” patients in target hospitals due to unaffordable bills and increasing paperless and cashless hospitals in Rwanda.
Firstly, the reduction in time patients spend paying hospital bills will be evaluated by a monitoring survey involving recording the check in and check out time to the payment block. To measure the impact of reducing billing times, URUKUNDO Medical T&P will leverage real-time data to monitor the duration of patient check-ins and check-out at the payment block, aiming to streamline these processes for efficiency. For patients, especially those with chronic conditions who require regular medication, the system's success regularly collects data through targeted surveys and focus group interviews, this is to help assess patient satisfaction and identify areas for further improvement, ensuring that the system benefits those in need and enhances the quality of healthcare delivery.
Secondly, reduction of “short-of-cash” patients in target hospitals due to unaffordable bills will be evaluated by a qualitative survey made of interviews and focus group discussions of sample patients to report if there was a change related to affordability before and after using our solution. The shift towards a paperless and cashless healthcare environment will be evaluated through quantitative research, focusing on the adoption rate of URUKUNDO Medical T&P’s system among health facilities and its acceptance by insurance companies and other stakeholders. The ultimate indicators of success will include reduced waiting times for patients, fewer instances of cash-shortage during payment, and a wider acceptance of cashless transactions within the healthcare ecosystem. This approach underscores a commitment to not just advancing healthcare technology but also to creating a more inclusive, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare system in Rwanda.
Lastly, increasing paperless and cashless hospitals in Rwanda will be evaluated from quantitative research on the number of health facilities adopting and completely using our solution.
Throughout the above impact goals, the indicators are the number of hours a patient spends at the payment block and thus at the hospital, number of patients reporting shortage of cash during payment and number of health facilities adopting our cashless and smart payment solution.
URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay uses automated billing software on computers and billing machines. It also uses app and SMS software to inform patients that they have successfully paid their bills or while topping up or saving on the cards. It leverages state-of-the-art automated billing and payment technologies to redefine healthcare transactions in hospitals.
At its core, the system utilizes advanced software integrated into payment machines and specialized cards. These cards serve as digital wallets, allowing patients to preload funds which can be used to cover their portion of healthcare costs, based on their insurance coverage. This innovative approach not only streamlines the payment process but also empowers hospitals to manage their finances more effectively. The leftover balance on a patient's card can be easily accessed for future medical services, ensuring that healthcare remains both accessible and convenient.
The process begins the moment a patient checks in, providing personal and insurance details, which are then linked to their URUKUNDO Tap & Pay card through the existing OpenClinics software. As patients move through various service departments, from consultations to medical examinations, charges for each service are deducted automatically from their card upon tapping it on the designated payment machines at every exit. This seamless integration of technology extends to a mobile app and SMS service, which notifies patients of successful transactions, top-ups, or savings on their cards, enhancing transparency and ease of use. The system’s ability to instantly update patients on their balance and transaction history after each tap promotes a hassle-free experience, eradicating the need for traditional billing queues.
Moreover, URUKUNDO Medical T&P extends beyond mere transactions; it revolutionizes medical billing through the digitalization of medical reports and billing codes. After receiving medical services, the details are encoded and direct data is stored in the OpenClinics for future use. This quick and smart billing system not only significantly reduces waiting times but also supports emergency savings and allows for direct funding of healthcare costs by institutions or the government. The digital data collected on patients' healthcare consumption, alongside the deployment of this technology, underscores a commitment to leveraging digital solutions to enhance healthcare accessibility, affordability, and efficiency, setting a new standard for healthcare services in Rwanda.
- A new application of an existing technology
- GIS and Geospatial Technology
- Imaging and Sensor Technology
- Internet of Things
- Software and Mobile Applications
- Rwanda
- Kenya
- Tanzania
URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay solution has been worked on since January 2022. So far, we have 10 full-time staff made of 4 founders and medical doctors, 2 software developers, finance officer, communications officer, graphic designer and IT officer. Moreover, we have 20 part-time staff participating in testing and pilot outreaches while testing our solutions. Moreover, we have 1 contractor called Centrika which helps in device distribution and maintenance.
The URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay, turned 2. It originated from collaboration of four co-founders who identified challenges in medical work in January 2022. After consulting patients and crafting a solution within three months, they engaged in consultative and partnership meetings throughout 2022. In February 2023, they conducted extensive research in four busy district hospitals in Kigali to ensure a human-centered design. This research facilitated the release of the first prototype in September 2023. Following positive reception from various institutions, Centrika Inc. became the official contractor, leading to the release of the latest working prototype in February 2024, inclusive of testing.
In the realm of innovative solutions, URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay stands out not only for its technological advancements but also for its unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). At its core, URUKUNDO is not merely a product; it's a testament to the power of a diverse team working towards a common goal.
Diversity is not just a buzzword for URUKUNDO; it's a fundamental principle ingrained in its DNA. From its inception, the team behind URUKUNDO has strived to cultivate a workforce that reflects the rich tapestry of humanity. This commitment is evident in the composition of the team, which is not only youth-led and women-led but also encompasses individuals from diverse backgrounds, including people with disabilities and minority groups.
In a world where opportunities are often limited by factors such as gender identity or personal background, URUKUNDO stands as a beacon of inclusivity. The team firmly believes that fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment is not only the right thing to do but also essential for the success of their solution. They recognize that diversity breeds innovation and creativity, allowing them to approach challenges from multiple perspectives and devise more effective solutions.
Central to URUKUNDO's commitment to DEI is the implementation of robust policies aimed at promoting fairness and equality within the organization. These policies go beyond mere lip service; they serve as a blueprint for creating an environment where every team member feels valued and respected, irrespective of their personal or gender identity. By championing DEI, URUKUNDO not only sets an example for other organizations but also reinforces its dedication to building a better, more inclusive future.
However, URUKUNDO acknowledges that their journey towards diversity, equity, and inclusion is ongoing. While they have made significant strides in cultivating a diverse team, they recognize that there is always room for improvement. They remain steadfast in their commitment to expanding and diversifying their team further, recognizing that true progress is achieved through continuous effort and dedication.
In conclusion, URUKUNDO Medical Tap & Pay exemplifies the transformative power of diversity, equity, and inclusion. By embracing these principles wholeheartedly, URUKUNDO not only enriches its team but also enhances the quality and impact of its solution. As we look towards the future, let us draw inspiration from URUKUNDO's example and strive to build a world where diversity is celebrated, equity is ensured, and inclusion is the norm.
URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay is adding value to our key customers but enabling them to afford and pay quickly their healthcare bills. We are providing these services purchases, savings and topping on their cards. They need such a card to get protected from the time consuming and unaffordable health care bills.
In fact, talking of revenue, Our solution URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay has a clear plan for financial viability because we will be getting a profit margin of 0.1% on every transaction occurring on the card and the funds saved on the card will be available for investments and further growth. We as well have a sound plan to scale the solution to positively affect the lives of more people not only in Rwanda but also in Africa as they share the common problem of time consuming and unaffordable healthcare payments.
Moreover, Our solution possesses partnership potential as we can collaborate with ressources of the Solve community including technologies of electronic medical records and hospital systems to integrate our automated cards payment solution. Our tech is positioned to collaborate with other healthcare technologies.
URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay crafts a revolutionary business model that directly addresses the pressing need for more affordable, accessible, and efficient healthcare services. By introducing digital wallets (the cards), URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay not only simplifies the transaction process for healthcare services but also provides a financial safety net for both healthcare institutions (private and public) and the general population. This model ensures that financial barriers do not delay or prevent access to necessary medical care. For insurance companies, the system offers the advantage of real-time data generation, facilitating prompt payments to healthcare providers. This efficiency not only bolsters the financial health of these institutions but also enables them to operate more independently and effectively, enhancing the overall quality of care available to patients.
Financially, URUKUNDO's approach is designed for sustainability and growth. Through a nominal profit margin of 0.1% on each transaction made with the Tap and Pay cards, the initiative ensures a steady revenue stream. The accumulated funds from saved balances on these cards are earmarked for reinvestment into the relevant institutions to enhance quality healthcare services, and the revenues will finance the scaling of the solution in the region where the challenges of costly and time-intensive healthcare are widespread.
URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay is inherently collaborative, opening avenues for partnerships with influential stakeholders such as the Solve community, local governments, and insurance companies. These partnerships aim to integrate URUKUNDO's payment solutions with existing electronic medical records and hospital management systems, thereby expanding its utility and efficiency. The potential for synergy with other healthcare technologies positions URUKUNDO as a pivotal player in the healthcare sector, promising to enhance service delivery through innovation and cooperation. This business model, thus, not only champions a more efficient healthcare system but also fosters a network of partnerships that amplify the reach and effectiveness of healthcare solutions across Africa.
- Individual consumers or stakeholders (B2C)
URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay is well positioned to become financially sustainable. As proven in testing done in the busiest health center in Kigali, we will be getting a profit margin of 0.1% on every transaction occurring on the card and the funds saved on the card will be available for investments and further growth.
Funding our work will not rely on donations and grants. Instead, the one time investment we are pouring in will self propel and ensure sustainability through selling our products and service and serving public and private institutions.
Our solution is already award winning to date. In December 2023, we received $10,000 for making the prototype from Segal Family Foundation through the perceived wide impact of our solution. The Next Health Accelerator and African Impact Initiative from the University of Toronto have all supported pilot testing the prototype to a health center and 4 largest district hospitals in Kigali hence making us ready to scale and confirming that even our stakeholders believe in the financial sustainability of our solution. This initial investment not only enabled the development of the product but also validated its feasibility and market potential.
Moreover, we as well have a sound plan to scale the solution to positively affect the lives of more people not only in Rwanda but also in Africa as they share the common problem of time consuming and unaffordable healthcare payments. Beyond transaction fees, URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay plans to diversify its revenue streams by selling additional products and services. This could include offering premium features, customization options, or specialized support services to healthcare institutions and other potential clients. By leveraging their expertise and technology, they can create additional value propositions that appeal to a broader market and generate supplementary income.
The successful pilot testing at the busiest health center in Kigali and four largest district hospitals, supported by organizations like The Next Health Accelerator and the African Impact Initiative, demonstrates the effectiveness and scalability of their solution. Positive feedback from stakeholders and the willingness of institutions to participate in pilot testing affirm confidence in the financial sustainability and widespread adoption of URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay's payment system.
Looking ahead, URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay is poised for expansion, both within Rwanda and across Africa. By capitalizing on their initial successes and leveraging strategic partnerships, they aim to scale their solution to positively impact the lives of more people, addressing common healthcare payment challenges across the continent. With a solid foundation in revenue generation and a commitment to innovation and growth, URUKUNDO Medical Tap and Pay is well-positioned to achieve long-term financial sustainability while making meaningful contributions to healthcare accessibility and affordability.