Government Initiatives Driving AI Adoption
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare is expected to contribute USD 25-30 billion to India’s GDP by 2025, enhancing accessibility, diagnostics, and treatment outcomes, according to a Deloitte report. Government-backed initiatives like the IndiaAI Mission and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, are laying the foundation for a digitally empowered healthcare system. These initiatives ensure responsible AI integration while strengthening data security.
Rapid Growth of AI in Healthcare
The Deloitte report, Digital Healthcare – Top 10 Myths Debunked Digital Health & AI, reveals that AI adoption in healthcare has surpassed 40%, exceeding adoption rates in sectors like FMCG (30%) and manufacturing (25%).
Transforming Patient Care
Joydeep Ghosh, Deloitte India’s Life Sciences and Healthcare Industry Leader, highlighted that India’s digital healthcare ecosystem is evolving rapidly. AI-powered diagnostics, MedTech innovations, and digital health records are transforming patient care.
Additionally, India’s exports of surgical consumables and disposables reached USD 1.6 billion in FY 2022-23, underscoring its growing presence in the global healthcare market.
Challenges Hindering AI’s Full Potential
Despite advancements, AI adoption in healthcare is progressing slower than in banking and financial services. The report attributes this to concerns about data security, regulatory fragmentation, and inadequate digital infrastructure, especially in rural areas.
As reported by economictimes, furthermore, a shortage of AI-trained professionals complicates the seamless integration of these technologies into clinical workflows. India has become a net exporter of surgical consumables. However, it still depends on imports for high-tech medical equipment. This highlights the need to strengthen domestic manufacturing.
Pathway to AI-Driven Healthcare Leadership
Strategic investments in workforce training, infrastructure, and policy reforms can accelerate AI adoption in healthcare. These measures will pave the way for a technologically advanced and self-reliant healthcare system, positioning India as a global leader in AI-powered healthcare.