As healthcare in India continues to evolve, the year 2024 is witnessing a significant surge in the exploration and adoption of advanced technologies, with a particular spotlight on genAI (generative AI) and robotics. Beyond the already established applications of AI in healthcare, including clinical decision support and personalized medicine, hospitals in the country are venturing into diverse technological avenues to enhance patient care.
In a recent discussion with Healthcare IT News, Prashant Singh, Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Max Hospitals, and JP Dwivedi, CIO of Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, shed light on the prevailing and emerging trends in health information technology.
A notable development in 2024 is the growing prominence of robotic solutions in surgical procedures. This trend is not confined to large private hospital chains but is also gaining traction in smaller public hospitals as the costs associated with these technologies become more competitive, especially with the introduction of domestic alternatives.
The spotlight on generative AI, a specific form of artificial intelligence that gained popularity in the previous year, continues to shine. Hospitals are increasingly recognizing the value of efficient tools that allow medical professionals to spend more time with patients by reducing administrative burdens.
Despite the enthusiasm within the healthcare sector to be recognized as “technology champions,” the adoption of new technologies is not without its challenges and resistance.
In response to a query regarding the continuation of health technology trends in India for 2024 and expectations for new trends, JP Dwivedi highlighted the ongoing embrace of medical technology. The integration of AI in both Radiology and Pathology is expected to persist, with the focus on enhancing diagnostic capabilities and streamlining workflows.
The use of AI and machine learning (ML) in Radiology is becoming particularly crucial. With the increasing sophistication of radiological modalities and a high demand for radiologists, AI/ML-enabled products are playing a pivotal role. These technologies assist in triaging normal and abnormal images, ultimately saving time and effort for healthcare professionals. In Pathology, the integration of high-precision cameras enables the preservation of digital images, revolutionizing the way diagnoses are conducted.
As 2024 unfolds, the healthcare landscape in India is poised for further transformation, driven by innovative technologies that aim to enhance patient outcomes and streamline medical processes.
