Solomon Desalegn (MD) graduated in medicine from Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College in 2017. Shortly after completing his studies, Solomon was able to secure employment at Saint Paul’s Hospital, where he started his medical career and was aspiring to be a gynecologist. However, work at Saint Paul’s exposed him to the unfortunate reality of healthcare in Ethiopia.

“At St. Paul’s, I saw between 35 and 40 patients per day. This meant I couldn’t spend more than five minutes with each patient, or else others would have to go home without treatment. I was dissatisfied with this system,” Solomon stated, highlighting the void he felt in his ability to genuinely assist patients.

A few months after Solomon started working, a close friend of one of his teachers was admitted to St. Paul due to a stroke. After their discharge, the teacher requested that Solomon follow up on the patient by visiting him at home.

“There are a lot of things that go into taking care of a person after they suffer from a stroke, and the family was inexperienced and wanted professional help,” he added.

After Solomon’s initial visit, the family requested that he regularly come to their home and provide personalized care for their family member.

“At first, I was a bit hesitant because I was doing it as a favor, but they convinced me, and the pay was good. I started visiting the patient two or three times a week, and the patient’s health began to improve, which really motivated me and made me happy,” said Solomon.

“Furthermore, the patient started recommending me to others, and that’s how I became the doctor who goes to patients’ homes,” he added.

From this humble beginning, Lifeline Addis was launched as a legally recognized, full-fledged business specializing in home health care services four years ago by Solomon and his two friends, Kaleab Getachew (MD) and Yonas Kifle (MD).

Today, Lifeline Addis has three full-time general practitioners, 17 full-time nurses, and psychotherapists. Additionally, 50 health professionals work with Lifeline as gig workers, providing service on a demand-based basis.

Lifeline Addis Homecare Services

Lifeline Addis provides three types of home care services: the first one is home care for patients who suffer from  hronic illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, and stroke. These patients usually require nursing care for medication administration, feeding, bathing, changing diapers, and clothing.

“Our nurses are available for 12-hour shifts, and they visit patients’ homes to provide care. Doctors also make regular visits once or twice every two weeks to ensure there are no infections or other complications. If laboratory tests are required, samples are taken from the patients’ homes,” explained Solomon.

The second package provided by Lifeline Addis is the Wellness Package, which focuses on preventative care.

“A team consisting of a doctor, nutritionist, and exercise counselor goes to the homes of our clients and  provides check-ups on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis, depending on the chosen package. The check-ups can also cover the entire family. Hospitals in Ethiopia are not always accessible or inviting for wellness visits, so we bring the care to their homes,” added Solomon.

He further emphasized their active efforts to promote these packages, citing an example where individuals in the diaspora can conveniently purchase them for their loved ones back home, ensuring their health receives adequate attention.

The last service Lifeline provides is the supply of medical equipment, such as patient beds, wheelchairs, oxygen cylinders, suction machines, and blood pressure cuffs. Solomon acknowledges that this is not their main business focus.