The journey toward a healthier society is gaining momentum, driven by the adoption of innovative concepts and advancements in health-tech solutions.
The healthcare sector in India faces challenges, primarily in terms of accessibility and affordability. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure and digitized solutions. As the nation grapples with these issues, the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in India, as articulated by Niti Aayog, emphasizes the potential of technology-driven solutions to address long-standing problems in the healthcare sector.
Here, we delve into five key health-tech trends that are reshaping wellness services in India:
Telemedicine
Telehealth, the use of technology such as computers, mobile devices, and tablets to deliver healthcare remotely, has gained significant traction. Accelerated by the pandemic, over 43% of Medicare primary care visits were conducted via telehealth services by 2020. The trend is expected to persist, with the telehealth market predicted to surpass $185 billion by 2026. People now seek seamless digital experiences for scheduling appointments, receiving medication, and accessing essential healthcare information.
IoT & Medicine
The integration of IoT in healthcare is rapidly expanding, encompassing wearable devices, monitors, and integrated applications. This includes innovations like smart inhalers that enable remote monitoring of patients, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. As advancements in AI and machine learning continue, equitable healthcare for everyone becomes a closer reality.
Employee Wellness Apps
Mindfulness apps, once niche, have become mainstream, with apps like Headspace and Calm gaining millions of new users. Employers are recognizing the benefits of such apps for their employees, ushering in a new era of employer-provided wellness solutions. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the importance of mental well-being.
Innovation in Infectious Disease Management & Diagnostic
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted rapid innovation in healthcare, leading to the development of apps for testing, tracking, and monitoring the virus. The combination of AI, Big Data, and IoT in disease management and diagnostics applications enhances the capabilities of healthcare organizations, enabling quicker responses in adverse situations.
Better Health Insurance Services
The global health insurance industry is embracing technological advances, and India is gradually catching up. Technologies like Big Data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotic process automation are revolutionizing the insurance sector, making data more accessible and improving customer understanding. This digital transformation is poised to render traditional claims management models obsolete.
Research predicts that the Indian health technology sector will skyrocket from US$1.9 billion in 2020 to an astounding US$5 billion by 2023. With over 7500 active startups in the industry, the potential for further innovations in telemedicine, e-pharmacies, diagnostics, and digital transformation is immense.
Conclusion
The integration of newer technologies, disruptive use cases, and the passionate efforts of health tech companies, founders, and investors paint a brighter future for healthcare in India. From vaccines for dangerous viruses to treatments for critical illnesses, the health-tech revolution is steering the nation towards a healthier and more resilient future.