New Delhi: The MeitY-NASSCOM Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) is working with startups, healthcare providers, and corporates to address critical gaps in India’s healthcare system. The initiative focuses on improving diagnostics, reducing costs, and bridging the rural-urban healthcare divide, aligning with the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM).
Boosting Diagnostics with AI and IoT
One of the key focus areas of the CoE is the development of affordable diagnostic tools. For instance, AI-based solutions like Periwinkle’s cervical cancer screening tool target rural areas where healthcare resources are limited. Similarly, portable diagnostic devices for glaucoma are being developed to make screenings accessible and cost-effective.
Partnering with Global Players
The CoE has joined hands with international companies, including Siemens Healthineers and AstraZeneca, to explore AI-driven healthcare solutions. These partnerships focus on integrating AI into imaging technologies and managing chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart ailments.
Bridging the Rural-Urban Divide
A major priority for the CoE is reducing the burden on rural patients who often travel long distances for specialized care. By deploying AI-powered tools, the CoE aims to make healthcare accessible at the grassroots level, supporting the NDHM’s goal of a digitally integrated healthcare system.
Addressing the Skills Gap
To strengthen the AI and IoT talent pool, the CoE has trained over 50,000 professionals under its Future Skills initiative. Bridging the skills gap in emerging technologies is critical to scaling healthcare innovations nationwide.
Supporting Startups and Future Plans
The CoE offers mentorship, funding, and industry connections to startups developing healthcare solutions. Moving forward, it plans to expand efforts in areas like remote patient monitoring and predictive analytics to address India’s evolving healthcare needs.
This collaboration underlines the potential of emerging technologies in reshaping healthcare delivery while addressing persistent challenges in accessibility and affordability.
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