Use of Digitisation in Bridging Healthcare Services in India

Abstract

India’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, particularly in bridging the gap between urban and rural healthcare services. Digitization offers a transformative solution to these challenges by improving accessibility, quality, and affordability of healthcare. This review explores the role of digital health technologies, including telemedicine, mobile health (mHealth) applications, and electronic health records (EHRs), in revolutionizing healthcare services across India. The article examines key initiatives such as the eSanjeevani telemedicine platform and the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM), which aim to expand healthcare access to underserved populations.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, with platforms like eSanjeevani enabling millions of remote consultations. Additionally, mobile health apps have empowered patients in managing chronic diseases and promoting preventive care, particularly in low-resource settings. Artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnostics has further improved the accuracy of healthcare delivery, particularly in early-stage disease detection. Despite these advancements, challenges such as limited internet connectivity, digital literacy gaps, and data privacy concerns remain significant barriers to widespread digitization in rural areas.

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of digital health technologies on healthcare access and delivery in India, comparing the country’s approach to global practices in the United States and the United Kingdom. It highlights the need for investment in digital infrastructure, education on digital health tools, and stronger regulatory frameworks to ensure data security. The paper concludes with recommendations for future research, focusing on the sustainability of digital health solutions and the potential of AI-driven tools to further enhance healthcare outcomes.