Digital diagnostics will transform India’s healthcare in the next five to ten years

Dhrubaa Ghosh, Partner in Healthcare Management Consulting, BDO India, discusses with Kalyani Sharma the pivotal role digital diagnostics can play in enhancing accessibility and affordability in healthcare

How do you see digital diagnostics transforming India’s healthcare in the next five to ten years? 

Digital diagnostics will transform India’s healthcare in the next five to ten years by improving accessibility, affordability, and quality of care. These will bridge the urban-rural divide through point-of-care devices for quick and efficient detection. AI-powered tools, genomics, and wearable IoT devices like smartwatches and ECG patches will enable rapid and accurate diagnosis. Integrated platforms consolidating data from wearables, diagnostics, and medical records will drive predictive analytics and foster preventive care.

What role can remote diagnostics play in bridging the urban-rural healthcare gap? Remote diagnostics will improve accessibility through digital diagnostic tools including mobile health apps and portable devices, enabling remote screening and diagnostics for rural areas. Telemedicine platforms integrated with diagnostic services will help patients access care without the need to travel long distances. The point-of-care diagnostics would include devices that will allow for rapid tests (e.g., blood glucose, ECG, or infectious diseases) at the local level, reducing reliance on centralised labs. AI-powered diagnostics will help improve the early detection of noncommunicable diseases and preventive care, while genomics will help in early management of diseases. Wearable devices will enable tracking of real-time health metrics. Finally, consolidation of patient data from wearables in a platform will enable predictive analysis.

What challenges remain in scaling remote diagnostic technologies like teleradiology and telepathology?

Infrastructure gaps include limited internet and electricity in rural areas which impedes transmission of diagnostic files like MRIs or pathology slides. Moreover, costly imaging devices and storage systems hinder accessibility. A significant challenge is the lack of trained workforce like radiologists, pathologists and technicians, and the training of the existing skilled workforce on usage of new diagnostic tools. Regulatory and legal issues include licensing across regions, and accountability for errors is unclear. Data privacy laws require strict compliance with India’s Data Protection Act. Challenges around data security and standardisation like cybersecurity risks and lack of interoperability between systems limit scalability. Variability in image formats can impact diagnostic accuracy. The cost and adoption barriers include high setup and maintenance costs for telepathology systems and resistance from patients and providers unfamiliar with remote diagnostics. Potential Solutions include investing in rural connectivity and affordable diagnostic tools; standardisation of AI algorithms, image formats, and data-sharing protocols; and training healthcare workers and ensuring clear regulations for liability and privacy. By addressing these challenges, remote diagnostics can improve access, affordability, and healthcare outcomes, especially in underserved regions.

How can the regulatory framework be updated to integrate digital diagnostics seamlessly? 

The regulatory framework must address: 

◆ Standardisation: Establishing universal standards for data formats, AI algorithms, and interoperability to ensure consistency and accuracy. 

◆ Data privacy and security: Enforcing robust laws like India’s Data Protection Act to safeguard patient data and prevent breaches. 

◆ Licensing and accreditation: Defining clear guidelines for licensing telemedicine practitioners, accrediting AI-based tools, and ensuring accountability for diagnostic errors. 

◆ Ethical use of AI: Mandating validation and transparency of AI algorithms to prevent biases and ensure reliability. 

◆ Ease of adoption: Simplifying compliance for startups and healthcare providers to encourage innovation while ensuring patient safety. Proactive updates to regulations can drive trust, efficiency, and widespread adoption of digital diagnostics. 

What infrastructure investments are needed to scale digital diagnostics in underserved areas? 

The key infrastructure investments to scale digital diagnostics in underserved areas include: ◆ Improving connectivity through expanding broadband, 4G/5G, and mobile networks for reliable data transmission. 

◆ Reliable power supply which will ensure reliable electricity and adopt solar powered solutions for remote areas. 

◆ Deploying affordable portable diagnostic tools, point-of-care devices and cloud-enabled imaging systems which are important for the purpose of rapid diagnosis. 

◆ Investing in secure cloud storage and interoperable systems which is crucial for seamless data sharing. 

◆ Building local capacity to operate diagnostic tools and provide technical support. 

◆ Strengthening last-mile delivery of diagnostic kits and equipment, thereby strengthening the supply chain. These investments will enhance access to quality diagnostics and bridge healthcare gaps.

What policy changes are necessary to accelerate digital diagnostic adoption in India? There must be regulatory clarity by establishing clear guidelines for AI-based tools, telemedicine practices, and cross-border licensing. Data privacy should be managed through robust data protection laws to ensure patient confidentiality and have secure digital records. Incentives in the form of financial support for startups, rural clinics, and diagnostic equipment manufacturers would also encourage service providers in this sector. It will be crucial to develop interoperability standards for diagnostic devices and platforms. It would be equally important to promote skill development. Therefore, proactive policy changes will foster innovation, improve accessibility, and ensure equitable healthcare delivery. 

 

Kalyani.sharma@expressindia.com 

journokalyani@gmail.com

BDO IndiaData privacy lawsData Protection ActDhrubaa Ghoshdiagnosticsdigital diagnosticsECG patches
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