Micro-Franchising Health Care in Low Income Countries

[JDinger]

I just wanted to take a moment and highlight some of the incredible work being done by CFWshops (http://www.cfwshops.com).

In short, CFWshops helps nurses and pharmacists in developing countries set up their own "pharmacy" and "retail" drugs through their own storefront. Patients pay a nominal fee for the medications (which provides income support for the local retailer) and allows patients to source medications in their own community - providing both employment for local health care workers and better patient care.

Because it is a franchse model, CFWshops helps with sourcing, distribution, education and other infrastructure challenges that a single health worker running her own "business" might face and consequently bar from market entry.

In case you're still skeptical...here are some of the companies historical results:

• In 2000, using his own funds, Scott and Eva lead the creation of the first 11 basic drug shops in Central Kenya.
• Since 2000, the HealthStore network has more than quadrupled to 54 locations comprised of 28 drug outlets and 26 medical clinics. This network treats an average of 40,000 patients per month.
• Since inception, The HealthStore Foundation® has treated over 700,000 patients through its network in central Kenya.
• The Ministry of Health for Kenya has incorporated the HealthStore network in its National Malaria Strategy.
• In 2004, the HealthStore network treated 177,256 patients and in 2005, the number of patients treated nearly tripled, reaching 435,527

If you're interested in sponsoring a clinic, go here. For a full presentation, click here.