Babylon goes to Canada with Telus Health partnership

Babylon is increasing its global presence after announcing a partnership with Telus Health, to help roll out its services across Canada.

The agreement will give Canadians access to UK-based Babylon’s virtual healthcare technology, including a bespoke app.

Powered by artificial intelligence, the app will feature a chat-style symptom checker that patients can use to better understand their symptoms or healthcare concerns.

Users will also have access to video consultations with a licensed Canadian healthcare provider.

Telus Health, a subsidiary of Canadian telecom provider Telus, offers a number of digital healthcare services including monitoring, electronic health records and pharmacy management solutions.

Company vice president, Juggy Sihota, said: “Our partnership with Babylon, through a globally-leading virtual care solution, will enable people to get access to healthcare anywhere and anytime they need it.

“Together, we are not only helping to improve the options Canadians have for accessing healthcare, but also providing them with a digital tool that makes communicating with healthcare professionals more efficient.”

Babylon has been visibly expanding its global footprint in recent months.

The company recently a partnership with Tencent, a messaging platform based in China.

It also launched Babyl in Rwanda which gives patients the ability to book doctor appointments, pick up prescriptions and access their medical records via an app.

Babylon’s founder and CEO, Ali Parsa, said: “Canada is building a reputation worldwide for innovation and desires to be at the cutting-edge of development.

“Telus’ consumer-centric approach coupled with its success in creating a more connected healthcare ecosystem through the use of innovative digital health technology solutions makes them the perfect partner for Babylon as we begin to serve this great country.

“Babylon’s mission is to put accessible and affordable healthcare services into the hands of every person on earth and entering the Canadian market is an exciting step for us. We look forward to extending our services to all Canadians via this game-changing announcement with Telus.”