SA start-up becomes global healthcare and technology leader in just 15 years

Dr Johan Pretorius

Universal Healthcare founders reflect on a remarkable journey

A South African-born healthcare company that set out to revolutionise healthcare in the country is fifteen years later serving the needs of nearly 11 million individuals on a multi-national basis, cementing its position as a global leader.

Universal Healthcare has proven the efficacy of prioritising the end user, offering exceptional value, and driving change. This business model has shaped the company as a trailblazer of innovation, delivering superior healthcare solutions internationally.

Under the continued visionary leadership of Dr Johan Pretorius, Executive Chairman and Group CEO, and Catharina Sevillano-Barredo, Deputy Chairperson and Group CFO, the company has evolved rapidly. Since its inception in March 2009, strategic acquisitions transformed it from a startup to a full-service healthcare management provider operating across multiple sectors.

With an innovation hub in Silicon Valley, Universal.one, Inc. has delivered groundbreaking healthcare software technology products for over five years, addressing private and public health challenges, such as the COVID pandemic.

Dr Pretorius says that the strategic acquisitions, matched with in-house innovation, propelled Universal to the forefront of the South African private healthcare industry by enabling the company to tailor its comprehensive suite of services to meet the changing needs of medical schemes and blue-chip clients.

"Having consolidated the original acquisitions with a number of new healthcare technology and service start-ups with a stellar track record into a single, newly energised stable with an unshakable vision, we were strategically positioned to deliver unparalleled healthcare value to South Africans from the outset.

"Our approach has been differentiated by refining our strategy to enhance the attractiveness of medical schemes, ultimately guaranteeing superior care for a wider range of South Africans," says Dr Pretorius.

“Fifteen years on, as the entrepreneurial driving force behind Universal, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering excellence and charting a strategic path for sustainable healthcare, just as we did in 2009.

As Universal's founders, we have built a solid working partnership that has grown over the years. This partnership brings consistency and a shared vision to the Universal Healthcare Team and its stakeholders.

Our dedication to patient-centric care shines through our innovative products and services in South Africa. With a sharp focus on personalised healthcare management and cutting-edge technology, Universal Healthcare ensures tailored and top-tier care for every individual.”

"Our clients and their members always come first at Universal, where our dedication ensures they receive the finest service and most tailored care possible. Our personalised healthcare management approach and cutting-edge technology, like our sophisticated IT systems and patented transaction rules engine, set our offerings apart. This commitment to excellence has earned the trust of over 30 healthcare funds in South Africa and served as a launchpad for introducing several groundbreaking products worldwide," adds Dr Pretorius.

"Our commitment to innovation knows no bounds," affirms Dr Pretorius. "As we celebrate this milestone, we remain dedicated to shaping the future of healthcare for generations to come. The journey ahead is filled with endless possibilities, and we are harnessing every innovation to provide exceptional value and the best possible healthcare outcomes for members.”