As we step into 2025, Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry are set to redefine how organisations deliver innovation and impact. Wearable technology and robotics are driving precision in real-time health monitoring, empowering practitioners to proactively manage chronic conditions. Meanwhile, advancements in AI, machine learning (ML), and blockchain are enabling healthcare delivery to become increasingly holistic, intuitive, and personalised. On the talent front, GCCs are evolving into strategic hubs, attracting and nurturing specialised talent to address complex challenges. Here are four key trends shaping the future of healthcare GCCs in 2025:
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From virtual therapy to wearables: Technology transforming healthcare
The telemedicine revolution, initially sparked by COVID-19, has matured into a robust industry. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are transforming remote healthcare delivery. For example, AR and VR are being integrated into stroke rehabilitation programmes, enabling immersive virtual therapy sessions where patients can practice motor skills in simulated environments tailored to their recovery needs. Similarly, AR-powered remote surgical consultations are allowing specialists to guide procedures in real-time, improving outcomes in regions with limited medical expertise.
In the words of Rohit Suchanti, MD, WebPT, an industry leader in rehabilitation therapy, “The rise of telehealth, virtual therapy, and AI-driven tools for patient monitoring and progress tracking will enable more personalised care plans. Robotics and wearable technology will revolutionise physical therapy by providing real-time feedback and enhancing mobility training.”
Wearables are another game-changer. Devices like smart glucose monitors and heart rate trackers now provide real-time data, empowering patients and doctors alike to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases more effectively. Advanced biosensors integrated into wearables monitor vital signs—such as blood pressure and oxygen levels—alert healthcare providers to risks before symptoms escalate. By enhancing accuracy and accessibility, these technologies empower patients with faster recovery and improved quality of life while equipping practitioners with consistent, real-time data.
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AI, ML, and blockchain: Delivering a seamless patient experience
Emerging technologies like AI, ML, and blockchain are working together to improve healthcare’s most critical dimension—the patient experience. Predictive analytics and AI are enabling personalised medicine by analysing patients’ medical histories, genetic data, and real-time health metrics. This allows healthcare providers to deliver tailored treatment plans and precision medicine, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Dr Rajesh Puneyani, VP and Technology Site Leader, Kenvue Solutions India, explains, “Advanced analytics and AI will revolutionise supply chain management, driving innovations in inventory optimisation. Digital integration across health platforms will enable seamless interactions between consumers and healthcare professionals, delivering personalised and convenient experiences. Blockchain will play a crucial role in ensuring data security and privacy, fostering trust between consumers and providers.”
The integration of wearable devices with health platforms is an example of this transformation. Data from fitness trackers, for instance, can now be automatically transmitted to healthcare providers, facilitating real-time monitoring and precision care. Blockchain technology ensures the security, transparency, and immutability of sensitive health data, strengthening trust between patients and providers.
In addition to patient-centric care, predictive analytics in supply chain management will minimise shortages of critical medications, ensuring their timely availability. Together, these innovations are creating a connected, patient-focused ecosystem that prioritises trust, convenience, and seamless experiences.
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2025: The year of talent empowerment at healthcare GCCs
As technology reshapes healthcare, GCCs are doubling down on their most valuable asset—talent. Today, healthcare GCCs in India employ around 15 per cent of the total GCC workforce, with leading organisations such as Evernorth, Kenvue, and AstraZeneca establishing centres of excellence in the country. These GCCs are pivotal in accelerating drug discovery, clinical trials, and supply chain optimisation by leveraging data analytics, AI, and machine learning.
In 2025, GCCs are set to elevate employee growth and well-being as core priorities. According to Yadhu Kishore Nandikolla, Head of Human Resources, Evernorth Health Services India, “A multigenerational talent pipeline fosters diversity, innovation, and resilience within organisations. Talent cross-pollination between headquarters and GCCs enables seamless integration of expertise and global alignment. Cultivating global leadership within GCCs will empower them as critical drivers of enterprise-wide innovation and growth.”
Career development, upskilling programmes, and employee well-being initiatives will take centre stage as GCCs prioritise aligning professional aspirations with organisational goals. This commitment will position GCCs as vital hubs of innovation and strategic talent ecosystems, contributing significantly to global healthcare advancements.
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Multifunctional hubs: The next stage for healthcare GCCs
In 2025, GCCs will continue their evolution from support centres to multifunctional hubs housing diverse expertise. Beyond core technical functions, GCCs are hiring doctors, medical researchers, and public health experts to lead advancements in telemedicine, medical AI, and personalised drug development. These professionals collaborate with data scientists and technologists to improve patient outcomes, streamline clinical workflows, and accelerate drug discovery.
Chemical engineers in GCCs play a crucial role in supporting pharmaceutical manufacturing, energy solutions, and advanced production techniques. By fostering collaboration across disciplines, GCCs are becoming the nerve centres of organisational innovation. This approach helps tackle complex challenges such as regulatory compliance, market-specific product development, and global supply chain optimisation.
The road ahead: Healthcare GCCs as strategic innovation hubs
The year 2025 promises immense opportunities for the healthcare industry, with GCCs at the forefront of driving technological and talent-centric advancements. These centres will continue to evolve into comprehensive innovation hubs, empowering organisations to succeed globally. By combining cutting-edge technology with a dynamic talent ecosystem, healthcare GCCs will redefine their role as strategic partners, delivering end-to-end solutions that address industry challenges and enhance patient outcomes.