In an exclusive conversation with APAC News Network and CXO News, Dr. Ashok Seth, Chairman, Fortis Escorts, highlights the importance of digital technologies and AI in building a robust healthcare infrastructure in India and realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 through collaboration.
How do you envision the future of healthcare in India?
Healthcare is no longer just about treating diseases but promoting wellness, including physical, social, mental, emotional, and environmental well-being. To achieve this vision, collaboration among various stakeholders—policymakers, healthcare providers, technology innovators, and patients—is crucial. The trust and partnership that emerged during the pandemic must continue if we want to realize the idea of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
How is Fortis Escorts leveraging the use of digital health technologies to make healthcare more accessible and efficient?
Digital technology is the only way to empower patients and promote prevention of diseases as much as possible. Accessibility, affordability, and efficiency are key. For instance, telemedicine, which became crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, needs to remain an integral part of healthcare delivery. This allows patients to connect with doctors from home, reducing the need for hospital visits.
At Fortis Escorts, we are leveraging wearable devices. These devices monitor key health metrics like heart rate or blood pressure, even after a patient has been discharged. For example, heart failure patients receive devices that can detect early signs of fluid retention—48 hours before it becomes critical—and alert doctors to intervene remotely.
Additionally, we are piloting a home rehabilitation program for post-surgery and heart attack patients. This involves virtual sessions with counselors for physical exercises, dietary advice, and emotional well-being, enabling patients to recover in the comfort of their homes.
How do you see the role of AI in transforming healthcare in India?
AI has enormous potential in healthcare, but it should act as an aid to medical professionals rather than a replacement. AI can enhance accuracy in diagnostics—whether through radiology, echocardiography, or ECG interpretation. For example, even a nurse sitting with a patient can use AI-powered tools to interpret ECG readings correctly, saving time and improving outcomes.
The value of AI lies in filtering out irrelevant information so doctors can focus on critical insights. This not only ensures timely and accurate diagnoses but also addresses the needs of our large population. Given the sheer scale of India’s healthcare challenges, AI will play an essential role in bridging the gap and delivering care efficiently.
What are the key challenges in implementing AI and digital technologies in India’s public healthcare infrastructure?
One of the main challenges is the fragmented approach. Although the government and policymakers have provided a much-needed push for digital adoption, what we need is seamless integration—both upstream and downstream—across the healthcare ecosystem.
India is uniquely positioned with widespread internet access and affordable digital tools. However, training healthcare workers to embrace prevention-focused digital care is essential. Collaboration among policymakers, doctors, nurses, technology providers, and industry players is critical. This mission cannot be fragmented—we need unified efforts across the sector.
You focus on the importance of collaboration. How can different stakeholders align to ensure the success of India’s healthcare mission?
The key lies in building trust among all stakeholders. From policymakers and regulators to healthcare providers, innovators, and patients—everyone must be on the same page. The pandemic taught us invaluable lessons about resilience, collaboration, and trust. It showed us what we can achieve when all stakeholders come together with a shared goal.
We need to carry forward the same spirit of collaboration that helped us fight COVID-19. Whether it’s public and private hospitals, technology providers, or patients—everyone needs to contribute to achieving equitable healthcare access. Our goal is not just healthcare delivery but ensuring personalized care that empowers patients to manage their health independently.
With the government pushing for a ‘Digital India’ and Viksit Bharat by 2047, what role do you see technology playing in this mission?
I believe that technology will be the backbone of India’s healthcare transformation. As the world’s most populous country, we need to use technology to ensure accessibility and affordability. Wearable devices, AI-based diagnostics, telemedicine, and virtual rehabilitation programs will redefine how care is delivered.
The mission to achieve Viksit Bharat is a collective effort. Policy incentives, industry support, and training programs are necessary to ensure that every part of the ecosystem—from remote villages to metropolitan cities—benefits from these advancements. Together, we can overcome challenges, avoid unnecessary roadblocks, and provide quality healthcare to every citizen of India.
Anannya Saraswat, APAC News Network
