ONLINE HEALTHCARE CONSULTATIONS: A TRANSFORMATION UNFOLDING

Discover how online consultations are transforming India’s healthcare landscape with the use of advanced technologies.

The Indian healthcare landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by the surging popularity of online consultations. Triggered by the pandemic and fueled by the country’s growing internet penetration and smartphone adoption (over six-crore users), online healthcare consultations aka telemedicine presents a transformative opportunity to reshape how healthcare is delivered, particularly in remote areas. Data reveals a remarkable rise, with over three-crore online consultations done in India in 2023!

Dr NK Pandey, Chairman and MD, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences, observes a stark difference in the pre-pandemic and post-pandemic scenario: “Prior to the pandemic, online consultations were available but not widely utilized.” The pandemic acted as a catalyst, leading to a “rapid acceleration” in their adoption, he says. Dr Rajendra Patankar, CEO, Jupiter Hospital, Pune, highlights the critical role of the pandemic in pushing the healthcare system towards online services: This shift has facilitated “more accessible and convenient healthcare, allowing patients to consult with doctors online, breaking traditional barriers.”

Illustrating the benefits of telemedicine, Ajit Patil, Co-Founder, DeepTek.ai, describes the reach and accessibility it provides: “Telemedicine expands reach and access, allowing patients to connect with specialists regardless of location, which is particularly helpful in remote areas.”