Your Health, Your Way: Discovery Health Launches Personal Health Pathways
Discovery Health just rolled out Personal Health Pathways, a super-smart, AI-powered tool that’s all about you. Designed to act as a personal health advisor in your pocket, Discovery says its new AI tool will be key in helping to guide its 2.1 million adult members of the Discovery Health Medical Scheme toward better wellness with tips tailored just for for you. The tool is available for members to use now through the Discovery Health app.
Discovery Personal Health Pathways: How does it work?
Discovery says this new feature in its existing app goes beyond your average health app. Personal Health Pathways uses fancy predictive AI to figure out exactly what you need based on your health stats, risks, and habits. Whether it’s nudging you to book a mammogram, hit a step goal, or check in with your GP, the tool is always encouraging you to stay one step ahead on your health and wellness journey. And the best part? It updates as your health changes, keeping things fresh and relevant.
Dr. Ron Whelan, CEO of Discovery Health, says it’s all about making members healthier with “unprecedented precision.” Translation: it’s smart, it’s personal, and it’s here to help.
So, what might your pathway look like? If you’re a 42-year-old gal feeling good, it might suggest a general Health Check, or a dental visit. Got a 45-year-old guy friend with high cholesterol? He could be prompted to monitor his levels or get a prostate screening. And for a 65-year-old managing diabetes, it’s all about tests like HbA1c or foot screenings. Plus, there’s a weekly exercise goal (think a fun parkrun or hitting your step count) that’s totally doable for where you’re at.
Get rewarded for being proactive
Here’s where it gets fun: every time you complete one of these health actions, you score rewards! We’re talking shopping vouchers, Discovery Miles, and even cash (up to R500 per action) that goes into a shiny new Personal Health Fund. Rack up to R10,000 to cover everyday stuff like doctor visits or meds. Dsicovery says, since launching in January 2025, nearly 120,000 members have jumped in and earned over R8 million in rewards. Who said staying healthy can’t pay off?
Why it works
According to Discovery an analysis of the data it collects from Vitality’s exercise stats revealed that small changes, like getting active, can slash mortality risk by up to 58% for the 45-65 crowd. Plus, sticking to healthy habits (which form in just 9-10 weeks!) can cut hospital costs and keep chronic conditions in check. This is where the new Health Pathways come in, encouraging the little steps that add up to big wins.
Feeling good
With over seven million possible pathways for members to discover, this new feature aims to help members feel like they have a personalised health plan they can access at any time. And starting May 2025, you can even access it via WhatsApp. Whether you’re dodging stress, managing a condition, or just wanting to feel your best, Personal Health Pathways is your new BFF in the wellness game.