Healthcare Triangle founder Suresh Venkatachari's Perspective on Bridging the Healthcare Tech Gap in India
Suresh Venkatachari of Healthcare Triangle delves into the multifaceted nature of the digital divide and its implications on healthcare technology adoption in India; emphasizing the urgent need to bridge this divide for a brighter and healthier future.
In an age of rapid technological progress reshaping industries worldwide, the healthcare sector in India finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has acted as a powerful catalyst, propelling the widespread integration of digital technology in the health and wellness industry throughout the country.
Suresh Venkatachari, Founder & Promoter of Healthcare Triangle, expresses, “Although the concept of teleconsultations had been circulating for a significant portion of the past decade, this transformative event gave rise to telemedicine for consultations and outpatient services in an unprecedented fashion.”
Over the past few decades, India has made commendable strides in enhancing healthcare outcomes. Nevertheless, the hurdles encountered by the rural healthcare system stand unparalleled in comparison to other sectors. With nearly 65% of the Indian population living in rural regions, ensuring sufficient healthcare provisions for this extensive demographic remains a disturbing undertaking. Even though, the integration of cutting-edge technologies promises to revolutionize patient care, diagnostics, and treatment outcomes significantly. However, a significant barrier known as the digital divide threatens to impede the widespread adoption of healthcare technology in the country.
The Digital Divide in India: A Comprehensive View
The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals, households, businesses, and geographic areas with access to information and communication technologies (ICT) and those without. In India, this disparity is strikingly evident, with rural areas often lagging significantly behind urban centers in terms of digital infrastructure, connectivity, and technology literacy. “One of the most apparent aspects of the digital divide in India is the glaring disparity in access to essential infrastructure. While urban areas boast robust internet connectivity and state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, rural regions grapple with inadequate infrastructure, limited access to electricity, and a dearth of reliable internet connectivity,” explains Suresh Venkatachari. This technological disparity directly impacts the implementation and utilization of healthcare technologies in these underserved regions.
It is important to also understand that India's socio-economic diversity further worsens the digital divide. High costs associated with acquiring and maintaining advanced healthcare technologies place them beyond the reach of a significant portion of the population, leaving them, without the benefits of advanced diagnostics, telemedicine, and electronic health records. This creates a stark contrast between the healthcare available to affluent urban populations and the more marginalized communities, directly impacting the health outcomes of many.
Building Digital Literacy and Healthcare Awareness
Effective utilization of healthcare technology requires a certain level of digital literacy, which is unevenly distributed across the country. Presently, India boasts one of the highest rates of smartphone usage globally, transcending gender and age disparities, and digital literacy still exists. “Urban populations tend to have higher levels of digital literacy, while rural areas often lack the resources and training necessary to harness the potential of healthcare technology. Moreover, a lack of awareness regarding the benefits of healthcare technology further hinders its widespread adoption,” says Suresh Venkatachari.
Bridging India's Digital Divide: Urgent Call for Action
Addressing India's digital divide is crucial to unleashing the full potential of healthcare technology in the country. This endeavor necessitates a collaborative approach involving government entities, private enterprises, and non-profit organizations. Together, they can drive the development of affordable healthcare technologies tailored to the specific needs of the Indian context. Additionally, a strong emphasis must be placed on promoting digital literacy and providing training programs for healthcare professionals and the public.
The government's vigorous drive towards digitization can effectively extend internet accessibility to even the remotest corners of the country. Investments in digital infrastructure, including reliable internet connectivity and power supply, are fundamental in ensuring equitable access to healthcare technology across urban and rural areas. This will ensure that the benefits of healthcare technology are maximized across the board.
Moreover, initiatives focused on raising awareness about the advantages of healthcare technology are imperative. “Embracing technology has been a silver lining amidst challenges in India's healthcare landscape. Additionally, noteworthy initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) are geared towards enhancing the health of every Indian,” cites Suresh.
This will empower communities to actively participate in their own healthcare, fostering a more inclusive and informed healthcare landscape. Suresh Venkatachari of Healthcare Triangle is optimistic for a future where advanced healthcare technologies are accessible to all, regardless of geographical or socio-economic background.
By making strategic investments, implementing targeted interventions, and demonstrating unwavering commitment, Suresh Venkatachari Healthcare Triangle founder concludes “we can usher in an era of healthcare equity and excellence in India.”
Disclaimer: No Asian Age journalist was involved in creation of this content. The group also takes no responsibility for this content.
