Health professionals in Kenya who own BlackBerry smartphones will now be able research medical procedures and treatment options through the iAfya app released by Avallain, an online education specialist that uses ICT to positively impact human development.

The free to download iAfya app will enable users look up symptoms or first aid tips and enable healthcare workers researching medical procedures and treatment options on the go. The iAfya app is only available for BlackBerry smartphones.

The number of people in Africa with access to mobile phones is over 560 million and exceeds those with access to the Internet by nearly five to one, according to Informa Telecoms and Media. Easy-to-use mobile applications therefore have a critical role in extending basic healthcare information to under-served communities.

The iAfya mobile app offers quick and reliable answers to everyday health questions. The app also puts customers in direct touch with service providers – from insurance to healthcare professionals.

“Access to even basic health information can be expensive and complicated for many people in our society. iAfya provides a platform where people can access health information at their convenience for free,” said Shelmith Mumbi, Avallain’s Content Manager.

Avallain designed the iAfya app content according to Kenyan government guidelines to meet the highest quality standards, which are provided by the Ministry of Medical Services and the Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation.

“iAfya aims to close the gap between the health workers and the public and improve the level of knowledge for health workers themselves, a critical group for any effort to improve public health,” said Mumbi.

The iAfya app will also enable health workers in the field to access relevant and up to date health information while on the go, and help to improve service delivery.

“According to Canalys, the BlackBerry brand continues to lead Africa in terms of smartphone adoption.  As well as connecting the Continent, we see the mobile Internet becoming the key platform for accessing information and services in areas such as education and health. W” said Waldi Wepener Regional Director for East, West and Central Africa at Research In Motion.

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