Two in three Indian healthcare leaders unsure of defence vs. cyber threats

But two in five feel that their tech infrastructure can ensure patient data privacy.

Two in three healthcare leaders and professionals from across India have expressed concerns that their technology infrastructure might not be sufficient to prevent cyber threats, according to a survey from Grant Thornton Bharat and the Association of Healthcare Providers in India (AHPI).

The report noted that India has successfully embraced the digital mindset in the last decade, but the primary factor fundamental to digitalisation is the availability of technology tools that facilitate the creation of smart hospital infrastructure.

“For a large and diverse country like India, developing accessible and affordable healthcare facilities is the biggest challenge, creating an opportunity for private players,” the report stated.

Meanwhile, two in five feel that their technology infrastructure can already ensure the data privacy of their patients.

Around 84% of healthcare leaders and professionals associated with hospitals of different sizes, specialities and locations have expressed plans to significantly raise their budget on digital solutions and technology initiatives in the next 12 months.

Four in five also plan to leverage 5G to drive healthcare outcomes.

Healthcare companies need to invest significantly in technology to address cybersecurity threats and data privacy issues, the report stated.

Digital transformation in the healthcare sector is happening at a fast pace, the report noted. For example, specialist doctor consultations are now available in lower-tier cities and rural areas in India – something that was considered unthinkable a few years ago.

More than 60% of the respondents said they had also implemented various technology tools such as health information management systems (HIMS), electronic health records (EHR) and electronic medical records (EMR).

Despite the pace of change, telemedicine revenue still accounts for only less than 5% of over 75% of the survey participants.

“As India moves ahead with the agenda of universal health coverage, technology will be a crucial lever to drive accessibility, availability and affordability,” the report stated.