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Description

Introduction

Under the Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS), hospitals, diagnostic labs, and digital health solution providers are incentivized to embrace transformative digitization practices.

The scheme operates with the aim of fostering a digitally inclusive healthcare ecosystem that aligns with the larger vision of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.

Features

• Health facilities (hospitals, diagnostic labs) and registered Digital Solution Companies (DSCs) under ABDM's Health Facility Registry (HFR) are eligible to participate in the scheme.
• The financial incentives are based on the number of digital health records created and linked to Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) numbers of patients.

Challenges to Digital Healthcare in India

• Infrastructure and Connectivity: Despite advancements, a significant portion of India still lacks reliable internet connectivity and necessary digital infrastructure. This hampers the ability to access and deliver digital healthcare services in remote and rural areas.
• Digital Literacy: Many people, especially in rural areas and older populations, may not be familiar with technology or lack the necessary digital literacy skills to effectively use digital healthcare platforms and services.
• Data Privacy and Security: Maintaining patient data privacy and security is a significant concern in digital healthcare. Ensuring that sensitive medical information remains confidential and protected from unauthorized access is crucial.
• Telemedicine Regulations: While telemedicine has gained popularity, regulatory clarity regarding the practice, prescription of medications, and teleconsultation across state lines has been a challenge.

Way Forward

• Implementing blockchain technology to securely store and manage electronic health records. Patients could control access to their data while ensuring data integrity and interoperability among healthcare providers.
• Big data analytics to predict disease outbreaks, plan resource allocation, and devise targeted interventions to manage public health challenges more effectively.
• Training of healthcare professionals in using digital tools effectively. Offer online courses for medical professionals to upskill in areas like telemedicine, data analytics, and AI applications in healthcare.
• Establishment of comprehensive regulations and guidelines for digital health technologies, ensuring patient privacy, data security, and ethical use of digital services and other technologies.