In an era where digital health is rapidly evolving, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with traditional healthcare services promises to revolutionize patient care. Shashank ND, Chairman of the CLI Digital Health Subcommittee and Founder & CEO of Practo, recently discussed the future of AI in healthcare.
The Role of AI in Modern Healthcare
Consumers are increasingly turning to digital health services for better access and quality information. Hospitals and clinics are adapting to this shift by adopting tools, including AI-powered solutions designed to improve patient care. AI’s role is not about replacing traditional methods but about integrating innovations to achieve superior health outcomes. Shashank ND emphasized that AI can enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery, ensuring optimal results quickly and affordably.
Digital Health Summit 2024: A New Era
The Digital Health Summit 2024 is set to highlight the integration of AI in healthcare, showcasing new elements introduced by the summit’s younger leadership. This year’s focus is on leveraging AI globally, exploring its potential to improve health outcomes and extend longevity. The summit aims to demonstrate how AI can add valuable months to human lifespan, addressing the growing need for high-quality, affordable healthcare.
AI Health Mission India 2030
The AI Health Mission India 2030 is a key initiative aiming to provide every Indian with access to high-quality healthcare by 2030. This ambitious goal reflects the belief that if every Indian has access to a smartphone, they should also have access to affordable and competent medical care. Dr. Paul highlighted that while private sector participation in the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) is currently limited, the mission’s success is not solely dependent on ABDM but on broader digital health integration.
The Impact of AI on Telemedicine
Telemedicine services, including e-Sanjeevani and Practo, currently cover about 20-30% of the Indian population. AI’s potential to enhance these services is substantial, particularly in improving prescription quality, reducing misdiagnoses, and minimizing errors. Shashank ND believes that AI will further demonstrate telemedicine’s value post-COVID, making the 2030 goal of universal healthcare access more attainable.
The Evolution of Digital Health Post-COVID
During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital health apps saw unprecedented usage, with a significant shift towards teleconsultations. Post-pandemic, while teleconsultations have decreased, they remain substantially higher than pre-COVID levels. Consumers have become more health-conscious, using digital health services to access reliable information and facilities. Practo’s experience highlights the continued growth of digital health services and their crucial role in enhancing patient care.
Enhancing Healthcare Through Data
Pacto’s extensive dataset, accumulated over 16 years, is leveraged to track disease trends and improve health outcomes. This data helps identify regional health trends and informs policy-making. For example, data on rising C-section rates could influence government policies to address potential misuse and its broader implications for population health.
Addressing Regulatory Concerns
The Union Health Ministry’s scrutiny of online pharmacy regulations has raised concerns about the impact on the business landscape. Shashank ND noted that online medicines constitute a small fraction of Practo’s business. He advocated for pragmatic regulations that foster industry growth while preventing misuse, rather than outright bans. The goal is to develop and lead in digital health, setting global standards rather than following them.
Investment and Expansion Plans
Pacto is aggressively expanding into the Middle East, focusing on the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The expansion is driven by the significant Indian population in the region and its proximity to other developed markets. The company is investing heavily in AI technology to enhance its offerings and continue its growth trajectory.
The integration of AI with traditional healthcare methods is poised to transform patient care, making it more efficient and accessible. The Digital Health Summit 2024 and the AI Health Mission India 2030 reflect the growing emphasis on leveraging digital tools to improve health outcomes. As AI continues to evolve, its role in enhancing healthcare services and extending longevity will become increasingly significant. Through collaboration between digital and traditional approaches, the goal of providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to every Indian by 2030 is well within reach.
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Great article!
The way you’ve explained AI’s growing role in healthcare is both informative and forward-thinking. I especially like the focus on AI enhancing telemedicine and improving healthcare accessibility, which feels so relevant, especially post-COVID. The goal of universal healthcare by 2030 with AI integration sounds ambitious but promising.
I’m curious—how do you see AI balancing between improving care while ensuring patient data privacy and security, especially as digital health services expand globally?
Thanks for sharing these insights!