India still nurses a disproportionate number of patients when compared to the rest of the world. Besides this, some of the other major challenges include a weak primary healthcare system, skewed distribution of skilled medical resources and caregivers, lack of a centrally accessible healthcare information system, and lack-lustre governance. The existence of a traditional paper-based documentation system further constricts the accessibility and dissemination of timely medical care.
The medical fraternity needs to ensure not only integrity and good practice among its members but also uniform standards in addressing the system. The answer to all problems plaguing the sector lie in innovation leading to public–private partnership amongst pharmaceuticals as well as the healthcare delivery system.
Technology to the rescue
With almost 70 per cent Indians still living within rural boundaries that are beyond the service radar of government hospitals; the country is reeling from an acute shortage of qualified doctors and nurses. Government agencies as well as healthcare service centers are turning to digital media, tech-based systems, and messaging technologies to collate, track, and update health records of people even in the most remote areas. This has not only centralised the healthcare system across the nation but has also cut down the time taken for information processing to a significant level. A case in point is Portea’s DiabetaSmart, a dedicated diabetes management programme. A smart glucometer with an in-built SIM enables the patient and the doctor to see all the past readings anytime, anywhere (through web/app).
With a disproportionate majority of the population visiting private clinics (more than 50 per cent as per reports by Lancet) for any spells of ailment, the use of technology can also help clinicians to upskill themselves as well as assess themselves continually using cloud or mobile-based applications. Telemedicine pathways such as audio or video chats allow patients to get instant access to medical attention in case of medical emergencies without having to do any running around. Digital routes also allow patients and medical practitioners to exchange information through emails, images, graphics, and audio–visual files.
Harnessing technology at the consumer level
Remote monitoring allows for a single nurse to observe hundreds of patients in a real-time digital environment, thus eliminating the need for one-to-one involvement of medical personnel at home or in a hospital setting. This includes devices such as Smart ECGs, BP apparatuses, and pulse oximeters. While such technology already exists, the challenge is around deploying these devices in India in a cost-effective way. With the use of bio-sensing wearables, any changes in existing health parameters can be instantly communicated with doctors and caregivers for appropriate and timely action. This will not only prevent deterioration in their existing condition but also reduce the number of emergency admissions.
While many of these ventures are still exploring possible avenues for success, a few major players have paved a path for an effective, affordable, and easily accessible healthcare system, which is at par with global standards. Technology has given patients more control over the way they manage and track their own health.
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