BTS Health Digest #60 - From Doctor to Founder: How Dr. Ahmed Abdulkareem is Revolutionizing Healthcare with Prime Bridge Health.
In an era where technology is reshaping every aspect of our lives, healthcare is no exception. Dr. Ahmed Abdulkareem, co-founder of Prime Bridge Health, is at the forefront of this transformation in Nigeria. In a recent episode of Behind the Scenes of Health, he shared his journey from clinical practice to health tech entrepreneurship, shedding light on the challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned along the way.
A Doctor’s Transition to Entrepreneurship
Dr. Ahmed’s journey into medicine was largely influenced by societal expectations, but his passion for problem-solving and patient care led him to explore ways to bridge the gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system. Recognizing the limitations of traditional healthcare delivery, he co-founded Prime Bridge Health, a startup aimed at improving healthcare accessibility through innovative solutions.
Unlike conventional telemedicine platforms, Prime Bridge Health goes beyond virtual consultations. The company offers home care services and second opinions, ensuring that patients receive personalized, high-quality medical attention. Their goal is to reduce hospital congestion while providing professional, patient-centered care.
The Challenges of Building a Health Tech Startup in Nigeria
Starting a business is never easy—especially in the healthcare sector. Dr. Ahmed highlighted several hurdles that Prime Bridge Health has faced, including traditional mindsets, regulatory barriers, and funding constraints. Many Nigerians still prefer in-person consultations, making it challenging to promote digital health solutions. Additionally, navigating the regulatory landscape has been a learning curve, as healthcare startups must comply with evolving policies.
However, one of the biggest obstacles remains funding. Health tech startups often struggle to attract investors due to the long-term nature of healthcare returns. Despite these challenges, Prime Bridge Health continues to expand its services, proving that persistence and innovation can drive progress in Nigeria’s health sector.
The Skills That Make Doctors Great Entrepreneurs
Transitioning from clinical practice to business leadership requires more than just ambition—it demands a unique skill set. Dr. Ahmed emphasized that many skills developed in medical practice are directly transferable to entrepreneurship. These include:
Problem-Solving Abilities – Physicians are trained to diagnose and treat conditions, a skill that translates well into business decision-making.
Leadership and Teamwork – Managing a healthcare team in a hospital setting prepares doctors for leading teams in a startup environment.
Time Management and Prioritization – As a CEO, Dr. Ahmed applies the same discipline he used in medicine to manage business operations efficiently.
Resilience and Adaptability – Just as doctors navigate medical emergencies, entrepreneurs must tackle business challenges head-on.
Encouraging More Healthcare Professionals to Join the Tech Space
Dr. Ahmed believes that more healthcare professionals should embrace technology and step into entrepreneurial roles. His advice? Start, even if you're afraid. Many aspiring founders hesitate due to uncertainties, but taking the first step is crucial.
At Prime Bridge Health, mentorship is a key focus. The company actively encourages medical professionals to explore opportunities in digital health, emphasizing that networking and continuous learning are essential for success.
A Vision for the Future
Prime Bridge Health is not just a business—it’s a movement. Dr. Ahmed envisions a healthcare ecosystem where technology plays a central role in improving patient outcomes. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and patient-centered care, his startup is setting a new standard for healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
As Dr. Ahmed puts it, "We cannot compromise standards." His journey from clinic to CEO is a testament to the power of courage, adaptability, and vision—qualities that every healthcare professional can harness to make a lasting impact.
Watch Full Episode Here.
See you in the next episode.
Cheers!
Dr. Ron
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